The global stage of tech innovation has a new spotlight on Saudi Arabia as two brilliant young developers, Jawaher Shaman and Afrah Bin Jubayr, claimed the prestigious title of Distinguished Winners in Apple’s annual Swift Student Challenge. As students at the Apple Developer Academy in Riyadh, they exemplify the kingdom’s burgeoning tech scene and commitment to fostering world-class talent.
This year’s winners come from all over the globe, representing more than 35 countries and regions. Many of their app playgrounds were sparked by something personal, such as helping people in their community or a favorite hobby. For Distinguished Winners Elena Galluzzo, Dezmond Blair, and Jawaher Shaman, inspiration also came from their families — and they share the hope that one day, their apps can make an impact on others as well.
Shaman and Bin Jubayr’s winning apps aren’t just showcases of coding prowess; they’re deeply personal projects fueled by a desire to solve problems and make a difference. Jawaher Shaman’s “My Child” draws inspiration from her childhood struggle with stuttering. Her app provides a supportive environment, using exercises and guidance to empower others with speech conditions, offering a digital helping hand much like the one she received from her own father.
Afrah Bin Jubayr’s passion for the environment shines through in her app, “Fin’s Adventure.” This immersive game tackles the devastating issue of ocean pollution, educating players while fostering a sense of urgency to protect our marine ecosystems.
Their recognition as Distinguished Winners isn’t just an individual achievement. It’s a testament to Saudi Arabia’s growing investment in technology education and the potential of its young people to create change on a global scale. The Apple Developer Academy provides a crucial platform for nurturing the next generation of innovators, equipping them with the tools and skills to transform their ideas into impactful realities.
Shaman and Bin Jubayr will now have the incredible opportunity to travel to Apple’s renowned Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). This immersive experience will expose them to cutting-edge technologies, connect them with a global community of developers, and open doors for their apps to reach an even wider audience.
Their stories are an inspiration not just for aspiring Saudi developers, but for anyone who believes in the power of technology to solve problems and create a better world. Saudi Arabia’s rising presence in the Swift Student Challenge signals a promising future for tech innovation within the kingdom and beyond.
