Judging Experience at ICT Society's INNOTECH Fair

So much has happened to us these past few days that I honestly don't even know where to begin. But what I'm about to share is definitely worth telling—not just because it's a personal achievement, but also because it was such a valuable experience. So stay tuned and keep scroll, Hivers! 🐝

Oh, and by the way, it's Ange here. 😉

So, recently, I was invited to serve as a judge at the INNOTECH Fair hosted by the ICT Society of the University of Makati – Higher School ng UMak. The event, which stands for Innovative Technologists, was a showcase of student-led tech projects aimed at solving real-world problems through creativity, research, and practical innovation. In short, it's like a start-up competition for beginners.

The INNOTECH wasn't the usual academic fair. The room was alive with potential—where creative concepts mixed with real innovation, and where students were more than just ticking boxes. They were diving into their roles as future technologists, and game changers.

When they asked me to be a judge, I felt excitement, mixed with curiosity, because I was thinking about what I was going to share with them aside from just making a judgment about their work.

It wasn’t my first time being invited, but the anticipation never really fades because it's amazing to see the new ideas of the next generation, especially those that might change the future. And I've always thought that technology might change people's lives.

But what truly surprises me is where the spark usually starts: in the classroom. This place is full of passion, with people who don't stop learning new knowledge and skills to come up with innovative ideas.

And I personally believe that students see things in a different manner than most people do. They don't see limits; they see unlimited possibilities.

As a specialist in IT, I thought of the event as an opportunity to share what I know and learn from young innovators who are solving real-world problems in creative and exciting ways. And to be honest, I didn't anticipate the experience to be that uplifting and gratifying.

Role of a Judge: Observing with Purpose

As a judge, my role was more than just looking at the projects. Through their presentation, I figured out their purpose, their journey in creating the systems, and what they are aiming to do and achieve after accomplishing the development of their systems.

While they were giving their presentations, I looked at how creative, useful, user-friendly, and overall impactful each student's work was. And indeed, I believe that all of their presentations were truly innovative. Although some failed to meet our expectations.

The systems developed by the students includes digital logbook systems like iCAREHSU, which automates attendance monitoring, and simple tools for keeping track of library books and thesis papers like Scholar Finds.

There's also a system called BookEase for automation scheduling of the use of facilities in the University of Makati, and a UMak AnonHub where the students who developed this system intends to have a Facebook styled system intended for the students of UMak.

There are also projects that are used for online logbook systems for professors, so the students will simply use the system to create a schedule for consultation with their professors.

Many of the concepts presented by the students could solve problems, demonstrating their innovative thinking and knowledge of technology. Overall, the projects could make a big difference in how well things were organized and how efficiently they worked.

For me, the most interesting part of their presentation was the "why" behind each project. The students weren't just making things for fun; they were trying to solve real problems within the needs of the university.

And as their judge, this link to actual life made my judgment moment more important to them. I thought I could give them suggestions on how to make their systems better.

More Than Scores: Growth Moments

Judging wasn’t just about scoring, but it was also about giving motivation. You give meaningful feedback to them that will make them motivated, and made sure that you approach them well because whatever you say to them, they will surely remember it specially when it is for the improvement of their projects.

What surprised me was how open and willing the students were to receive the compliments and feedback we gave to them. Instead of being defensive or timid, many of them engaged in follow-up questions, because they wanted to get better not only for the competition but also for the future.

Some asked how their concept could be improved further, while others shared that they wished to work in IT industries. In such times, I went from being a judge to being a mentor, cheering them on and telling them to keep working on their ideas and believing in them.

My Sentiments for this Experience

While my primary role was to assess, I walked away, having learned far more than I expected.

I was reminded just how valuable early empowerment can be. It's amazing to see that a lot of the ideas I encountered didn't come from years of working in the field but from a courageous spirit of attempting to explore, stumble, and get back up again. These students were brave to test their limits and risk everything they have that even the most experienced professionals may learn from them.

I also realized how important platforms like INNOTECH are for helping students to develop their skills. The confidence they develop, the connections they make, and the feedback they get in real time all add up to an experience that will stick with them for a long time. It's not only about fairs to find innovative ideas but rather about putting money into people who will change the world into a better future.

In the end, I realized how important it is to be there for someone. We don't always realize how important it is to be there and support someone in their journeys. But that day, I learned how powerful it is to be the person who says, "I believe in what you're doing. Keep going."

My Reflective Thoughts & Gratitude

Being a judge at this event was an exciting and unforgettable experience filled with genuine creativity and enthusiasm. I left the event feeling inspired, motivated, and hopeful. Seeing the massive potential of the future generation really moved me.

Thank you to the UMak-HSU ICT Society for putting together an unforgettable event. It was nice to meet and talk to individuals that really wanted to learn and go better. Every part of the event showed that it had been carefully planned and that people really cared. 🤗

I was genuinely impressed by the dedication and effort students invested to showcase their work. Keep aiming high, stay confident, and trust in your ability to make a meaningful difference.

Even if you don't win, be proud of taking the initial steps toward creating a difference. 🤜

I also urge all other professionals to say yes to the next opportunity to be a judge or a guest speaker at an event. As this will give you a chance to share what you know and get inspired and be encouraged in return. 🤍

This experience reminded me that real creativity doesn't depend on age; it grows where desire meets a worthwhile goal.