In Pakistan, as in much of Asia and the Pacific, women remain significantly underrepresented in STEM fields, creating a notable gap in both higher education and the burgeoning digital economy. Addressing this disparity, the “Build By Her” STEM hackathon series has been empowering young women in STEM since 2020. This initiative provides a platform for women-led startups to develop community-focused solutions, fostering essential skills and boosting confidence. Through targeted mentorship and hands-on learning, participants are emerging as skilled programmers, entrepreneurs, and leaders—helping bridge the gender gap in Pakistan’s tech industry.
Celebrating Innovation at the Fifth “Build By Her” Challenge
In partnership with Accelerate Prosperity, the fifth Build By Her Innovation Challenge took place at Aga Khan University in Karachi, highlighting impressive women-led startups from across Pakistan. The event drew participation from 320 teams, representing approximately 800 young women from diverse communities in an online hackathon.
Six finalists presented their innovative business ideas to a panel of judges, with the winners awarded seed funding and potential investment opportunities. The top awards went to:
- First Prize: Filtresha – A startup producing filter paper from chicken feathers
- First Runner-up: Kangaroo Care – A health-tech startup focused on AI-powered neonatal care devices
- Second Runner-up: Earthalene – A startup promoting commercial mushroom cultivation in Chitral
Judging Panel Highlights Impact of Women-Led Ventures
The judging panel underscored the critical role women entrepreneurs play in Pakistan’s economic development, stressing the importance of continued support for women-led initiatives. Panelists included Laurel Miller, President and CEO; Muzaffar Ud Din, Country Representative of the Asia Foundation; and Fawad Soomro of the Engro Foundation. Each highlighted the transformative potential of women entrepreneurs in Pakistan and their role as catalysts for growth and innovation.
Inspiring Conversations on Impact-Driven Leadership
The event also featured a fireside chat with Amneh Sheikh-Farooqi, CEO of Polly and Other Stories, and Aqsa Tariq, Founder & CEO of GrowElle Labs. They shared insights on the challenges and rewards of running impact-driven businesses in today’s world, inspiring the next generation of women leaders in STEM.
The “Build By Her” hackathon series continues to pave the way for young women in Pakistan to take on leadership roles in STEM, contributing innovative solutions and helping shape a more inclusive digital future.