Maral Hudaybergenova

2018 fellow Maral Hudaybergenova hosted the first-ever hackathon for social impact in Turkmenistan, bringing together participants to create web services and mobile apps to support rural women in selling their handicrafts. Maral is an initiator for the Google Developer Group (GDG) Ashgabat, who hosted the hackathon. The event was also supported by USAID, who provided funding for the winning teams.
The two-day hackathon was a first for all participants, who were guided and supported by local mentors and experts through mentorship and brainstorming sessions. Together, the teams created solutions for the women that integrated AI technology that allows customers to virtually try on the items, as well as an online auction function to increase online traffic and interest. “We hope this social impact project will help local women sell their handicrafts not only across the country, but also in foreign markets by presenting the unique products,” said Maral.
The winning teams were awarded a cash prize, giving them access to online courses as well as additional resources from USAID’s Future Growth Initiative and a local incubator. “Our participants met with like-minded people, expanded their network and gained valuable advice from the mentors and experts,” said Maral. “There is an increase in self-confidence that they can do it, which is much more priceless than any awards.”​