This September, I volunteered as a mentor at Hack the North, Canada’s largest hackathon. Hosted at the University of Waterloo, this event brought together over 1,000 passionate hackers from around the world.
A Global Community of Innovators
What struck me most about Hack the North was its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. The organizers went above and beyond to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or experience level, had the opportunity to participate.
The Mentorship Experience
As a mentor, I had the unique opportunity to work with diverse teams of students, each bringing their own perspectives and creative ideas to the table. Whether it was helping newcomers debug their first web application, or answering questions about internships and giving advice on how to balance school and extracurriculars, every interaction was a learning experience ā not just for the hackers, but for me as well.
What made the experience particularly rewarding was seeing the rapid progression from initial concept to working prototype. In just 36 hours, teams went from rough ideas to impressive demonstrations.
Beyond the Code
While the technical achievements were impressive, what truly set Hack the North apart was its emphasis on community and well-being. Between intense coding sessions, participants could unwind with therapy dogs, engage in cup stacking competitions, or join in impromptu karaoke sessions.
Impact and Reflection
Being a mentor at Hack the North reminded me of why I have a passion for technology ā its power to bring people together and create meaningful solutions.
The experience also highlighted the vital role that mentorship plays in the tech community. Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh perspective or a word of encouragement to help someone push through a challenging problem or take their project to the next level.
Looking Forward
As I reflect on my time at Hack the North, I’m filled with optimism about the future of tech. The creativity, determination, and collaborative spirit I witnessed among the participants gives me confidence that the next generation of developers will continue to push boundaries and create positive change through technology.
To anyone considering participating in or mentoring at a hackathon ā especially Hack the North ā I encourage you to apply. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting your journey in tech, there’s something incredibly special about being part of a community that celebrates innovation, inclusion, and the joy of building.