Join us for an unforgettable experience of learning, collaboration, and making a difference with a dash of fun thrown in.

Applications are now closed. Stay tuned for our next event! Complete the expression of interest form and we will contact you.

Expression of interest form
A group of students brainstorming ideas together in front of a glass wall full of sticky notes.

What is a social hackathon?

Social hackathons are events where volunteers work together to solve problems for a local community or organisation, within a set time limit. They are a great way for you to learn new skills, connect with new people, and make a positive impact.

Volunteers are paired with local not-for-profit organisations for a day of problem-solving and solution-creating fun. In teams, you'll tackle issues head-on, learn from professionals, and connect with new communities across Bristol.

For our first event we partnered with The Matthew Tree Project to bring you a social hackathon day in November.

What to expect

1. Team introductions

After the shortlisting process, we will invite you to meet your fellow students, on Frenchay campus. The week before the hackathon we will get you into teams, giving you the opportunity to get to know your teammates.

You'll be welcomed by someone from our super friendly Community Engagement Team and Student Ventures and they'll orientate you in the space and help introduce you to other students. We will always be there to make sure a fun, friendly, and inclusive space is maintained throughout. Our events celebrate difference, and no one is out of place at a Social Hackathon! 

We'll also be conducting some entrepreneurial training which will give you the knowledge and expertise, ensuring you are well equipped and set up for the day.

2. Ideation

The day of the hackathon, you will join your team to research and brainstorm ideas based on the organisation's challenges.

3. Solution finding and innovation

After an initial brainstorming session, the teams will come back together to discuss them and start working on the solutions you will be presenting to the organisation, at the end of the day.

4. Creation

You will create an output based on your team’s research and ideas that the organisation will be able to use going forward.

5. Reflection and presentation

At the hackathon, you and your team will be presenting your output. After the event, you will reflect on the session as a group and give feedback.

How to apply

Applications are now closed. Visit this page again in the new year to learn how to apply for our next event. 

In your application, you will be asked to explain why you would like to take part, what you can contribute and what you would like to get out of this volunteering opportunity. 

Complete our expression of interest form or get in touch with us by emailing volunteering@uwe.ac.uk if you have any questions.

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