Social hackathon
Join us for an unforgettable experience of learning, collaboration, and making a difference — with a dash of fun thrown in. Apply for our social hackathon day on Frenchay campus, Wednesday 26 March 2025, 13:30 - 16:00.
Submit your application by midnight, Wednesday 5 March 2025 for a chance to take part. Limited spaces.
Apply now
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, in November 2024, we partnered with The Matthew Tree Project. 20 students took part in the hackathon, to come up with new ideas and solutions to the charity's challenge.
For our next social hackathon, we'll be partnering with Bristol City of Sanctuary, to support their vital work with refugees and asylum seekers.
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 open until Wednesday 5 March at midnight.
In your application, you'll be asked to explain why you'd like to take part, what you can contribute and what you would like to get out of this volunteering opportunity.
Complete our application form or get in touch with us by emailing volunteering@uwe.ac.uk if you have any questions.
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Volunteering opportunities
Get involved with volunteering at UWE Bristol, whether it's a regular or one-off opportunity.
Reasons to volunteer
Volunteering is a great addition to your CV. It is also a good opportunity to meet new people, get out and about and have some fun, and make a difference in the local community.
Contact the Civic and Community Engagement Team
Contact us for enquiries about volunteering opportunities and recruiting volunteers.