Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), the country’s leading consumer finance company, marked a major milestone in its innovation journey with the successful launch of its first-ever “AI in UX Fintech Hackathon” in partnership with KadaKareer.

The groundbreaking nationwide initiative underscores Home Credit’s commitment to advancing technology and artificial intelligence (AI), while creating meaningful opportunities for young Filipino talents to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

The hackathon drew more than 400 students and fresh graduates from over 60 schools across 15+ provinces, challenging participants to develop AI-driven solutions for real-world fintech case studies. By bridging academic theory with practical application, the event empowered participants to transform ideas into impactful solutions addressing real consumer needs.

Building Future-Ready Skills Through Innovation

Designed to go beyond the classroom, the hackathon provided hands-on fintech problem-solving experience. Participants received mentorship from Home Credit experts and KadaKareer coaches, learned structured pitching techniques, and engaged in processes that mirrored real industry environments — preparing them for the fast-evolving tech landscape.

Following onboarding and mentoring sessions, the Top 10 teams advanced to the finals held at Home Credit’s head office in Bonifacio Global City on December 11. There, they presented their solutions before company leaders and industry experts.

Three outstanding teams, composed of 14 students, emerged as top performers — earning recognition and guaranteed internship opportunities with Home Credit as part of the company’s talent development program.

Driving AI Transformation Through People

The hackathon received strong support from Home Credit leadership, 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, alongside other key executives. Their presence reinforced the company’s belief that innovation is powered not just by technology — but by people.

“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. This hackathon proves that young talents can effectively harness emerging technologies to create solutions that respond to real consumer needs,” said Deputy CEO and Project Executive Sponsor Teeraphong Mahatham.

Expanding Opportunities with KadaKareer

As a community-based career development platform, KadaKareer played a pivotal role in mobilizing students from diverse academic and regional backgrounds. Through the partnership, participants gained exposure to real-world business challenges and industry expectations.

“Many young Filipinos have the skills and determination to succeed but lack access to real opportunities. 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,” said Sean Kalzada, Program Operations Manager of KadaKareer.

Through initiatives like the AI in UX Fintech Hackathon, Home Credit Philippines reinforces its focus on nurturing the next generation of fintech leaders. As a digitally driven, AI-forward organization, the company continues to invest in talent development, creativity, and continuous learning — creating pathways for young innovators to thrive in an era defined by technology.

To learn more, visit www.homecredit.ph or download the Home Credit App via Google Play, the App Store, or Huawei AppGallery. Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).