Technology has the power to solve real challenges in our communities. The Code for Change: Pacific Youth Hackathon invites young innovators across the Pacific to design digital solutions that address pressing social issues.
In celebration of 250 years of American Independence, the Embassy Youth Council is launching this innovation challenge for youth who want to create impact using technology, creativity, and collaboration.
If you are passionate about innovation, problem solving, and community change, this hackathon is for you.
About the Hackathon
The Pacific Youth Hackathon brings together young innovators from Fiji, Kiribati, Tuvalu, and Nauru to design technology driven solutions for real world problems.
Participants will work in teams to design a solution and present it during the final pitch event.
There are 8 team slots available, and each team can consist of up to 4 members.
During the competition, teams will:
- Identify a community challenge within the selected theme
- Design a digital solution
- Build a prototype or concept
- Present their idea to a panel of judges
This hackathon is designed to help youth gain practical experience in innovation, technology, teamwork, and pitching ideas.
Challenge Themes
Participants will design a digital solution addressing one of the following themes.
Cybersecurity for Youth Empowerment
Young people are increasingly exposed to online threats such as scams, cyberbullying, and privacy breaches. Teams are encouraged to develop solutions that help youth stay safe and informed online.
Possible ideas include:
- Cybersecurity education platforms
- Scam detection tools
- Digital safety awareness apps
- Youth focused cybersecurity learning platforms
Tackling Drugs and Substance Abuse Through Technology
Substance abuse continues to impact communities and young people. Teams can design technology solutions that help raise awareness, support prevention, or improve access to help.
Possible ideas include:
- Awareness and education platforms
- Support or reporting tools
- Data driven community insights tools
- Mobile apps that promote healthier lifestyle choices
Participants are encouraged to think creatively and design solutions that are practical and impactful.
Competition Timeline
Competition Launch and Registration Opens
9 March 2026
Registration Closes
16 March 2026
Virtual Orientation and Challenge Briefing
23 March 2026
Midpoint Check In and Q&A
30 March 2026
Final Submission Deadline
5 April 2026
Final Pitch Day
13 April 2026
Types of Submissions
Teams can submit a variety of digital solutions depending on their skills and ideas.
Examples include:
- Mobile applications
- Websites or web platforms
- Data dashboards or visualization tools
- AI or automation tools
- Educational technology platforms
- Cybersecurity awareness tools
- Digital campaigns supported by a prototype platform
Submissions should demonstrate a clear concept or working prototype that shows how the solution would function in the real world.
Judging Criteria
Projects will be evaluated by a panel of judges based on the following criteria:
Innovation and Creativity
How original and creative the solution is.
Relevance to the Challenge Theme
How well the solution addresses the selected challenge area.
Technical Execution
Quality of the prototype or technical approach.
Impact and Practicality
Potential of the solution to create meaningful community impact.
Presentation and Clarity
How clearly the team communicates their idea, design, and implementation.
Prizes
Winners will receive cash prizes and industry mentorship opportunities.
Best Overall Solution
TBC
Most Innovative Solution
TBC
Best Prototype
TBC
Best Use of Data
TBC
Youth Choice Award
TBC
Who Can Apply
You can apply if you:
- Are 16 to 30 years old
- Are based in Fiji or from Fiji, Kiribati, Tuvalu, or Nauru
- Have an interest in technology, innovation, or community problem solving
Participants from different backgrounds are welcome. Developers, designers, researchers, and creative thinkers are all encouraged to apply.
Ready to Build Change?
If you believe technology can help solve real challenges in our communities, this is your opportunity to turn your ideas into action.
Join young innovators across the Pacific and help create solutions that matter.
Register Now
Team slots are limited.
Code for Change Registration Form
Welcome to Code for Change: Pacific Youth Hackathon 2026
Organized by the Embassy Youth Council, this hackathon empowers Pacific youth to develop innovative digital solutions for real world challenges.
Venue: TBC
Pitch Date: 13 April 2026
Final Submissions Due: 5 April 2026
Challenge Themes:
- Cybersecurity for Youth Empowerment
- Tackling Drugs and Substance Abuse Through Tech
