Meta AI Hackathon 2024: Engati’s SHE Builds Team Wins Big

The recent AI Hackathon with Meta's Llama models drew some of the brightest tech minds to WeWork Galaxy in Bengaluru for an intense 30-hour marathon on October 19-20, 2024. Selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants, teams were challenged to deliver innovative AI solutions with lasting impact, pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence in critical areas like societal welfare, edge computing, and safe online interactions.

Meta designed the hackathon to bring together developers passionate about addressing real-world issues through cutting-edge AI models. Participants were encouraged to incorporate Meta’s latest Llama 3.1 model in one of three designated themes: AI for Societal Good, AI on Edge, and Build on WhatsApp. These themes gave participants the chance to not only experiment with the technology but also address challenges around social welfare, resource efficiency, and enhancing user safety on digital platforms.

An Event Fueled by Competition and Camaraderie

The hackathon kicked off with high energy as developers assembled their setups, prepared to collaborate, code, and create over the 30-hour overnight event. Each team was given cloud credits and access to hosted Llama models, allowing them to bring their vision to life. Project assessments were rigorous, with judges evaluating innovation, feasibility, model integration, scalability, and societal impact.

Among the prizes awarded, the first-place team received $3,000, while the second and third places took home $2,000 and $1,000, respectively. A special prize of $500 honored the best all-women team, encouraging diversity and inclusivity in the AI space.

Engati’s Achievement at the Hackathon

It is a proud moment for Engati, the all-women team "SHE Builds," consisting of Jahnavi Suthar, Sneha Singh, and Sweta, received the Best All-Women Team award for their compelling project that blended technical innovation with meaningful social impact. This team was recognized by industry leaders, including Meta's Chief Scientist Yann LeCun, who has been instrumental in advancing AI research globally. The recognition underscores Engati's commitment to promoting diversity and empowering women in tech.

A Platform for the Future of AI

The hackathon concluded with the feeling of collective accomplishment, as participants gained not just prizes but invaluable experience and insights from working on real-world AI applications. Meta’s event fostered a dynamic environment for future AI innovators, with platforms like this enabling talents to address social challenges head-on. The success of teams like SHE Builds demonstrates the power of diversity and collaboration in advancing the impact of AI.

As Meta and the global tech community continue to prioritize inclusive innovation, events like the AI Hackathon signal a promising future for artificial intelligence in India and beyond.