Home Credit Philippines (HCPH) has launched its first-ever “AI in UX Fintech Hackathon,” drawing more than 400 students and fresh graduates nationwide as the consumer finance firm ramps up its artificial intelligence (AI) and talent development efforts.
Held in partnership with youth career platform KadaKareer, the nationwide competition gathered participants from over 60 schools across more than 15 provinces. Contestants were challenged to develop AI-driven solutions to real-world fintech case studies, linking academic knowledge with industry application.
The initiative forms part of Home Credit’s push to strengthen its innovation pipeline while building a pool of future-ready fintech professionals.
From classroom to real-world fintech
Organizers said the hackathon was designed to simulate industry conditions, giving participants hands-on exposure to fintech problem-solving.
Students underwent onboarding sessions and received mentorship from Home Credit experts and KadaKareer coaches. They were also trained in structured pitching before presenting their proposals.
The Top 10 teams advanced to the finals held at Home Credit’s head office in Bonifacio Global City during the latter part of last year. Three teams, composed of 14 students, were named top performers and awarded guaranteed internships under the company’s talent development program.
AI transformation driven by people
Senior executives, including President and CEO David Minol, Deputy CEO Teeraphong Mahatham, Chief Information Officer Susan Ong, and Head of Collections Technology, AI, and Delivery Rahul Sharma, took part in the event.
Mahatham said the initiative reflects the company’s belief that innovation is driven by people as much as technology.
“The greatest AI transformation begins within ourselves. While technology evolves rapidly, true innovation happens when people are empowered to think differently, learn continuously, and apply new ideas with purpose,” Mahatham points out to FrontpagePH.
He added that the hackathon demonstrated how young talents can harness emerging technologies to address real consumer needs, strengthening confidence in the future of consumer finance.
Expanding access to opportunities
KadaKareer helped mobilize students from diverse academic and regional backgrounds, broadening access to industry exposure.
“Many young Filipinos have the skills and determination to succeed but lack access to real opportunities,” according to Sean Kalzada, Program Operations Manager of KadaKareer. “This partnership with Home Credit gave students the chance to work on actual business challenges, present their ideas with confidence, and see their potential recognized.”
Home Credit said initiatives like the hackathon align with its strategy as a digitally driven organization investing in AI, continuous learning, and talent development.
(MAIN PHOTO: Winners of AI in UX Fintech Hackathon with Home Credit Executive Officers and Human Resources team)