In a remarkable gathering of blockchain professionals and web3 pioneers, Alpha Training Lab hosted its inaugural Blockchain Ideation Contest on October 10, 2019. The event, held in partnership with renowned cryptocurrency platform Luno brought together some of the brightest minds in Africa’s blockchain ecosystem to celebrate and reward cutting-edge innovations.
Distinguished judges included Odunayo Akindote, Blockchain Project Manager at Primera Finance; Adeshina Ajayi, Founder of Digital Focus; Olaleye Awe, Founder of Alpha Training Lab; Victor Adekunle, Founder of VividXplorer, and Owen Odia, Country manager of LUNO (Nigeria). They united to evaluate projects that spanned decentralized finance solutions, peer-to-peer marketplaces, and blockchain-driven social impact programs.
Alpha Training Lab, which has empowered over 600 members financially and now counts more than 1,800 official members across six years of operation, is committed to “liberating one billion people from poverty, one person at a time.” Its mission rests on four pillars: education, adoption, empowerment, and global impact, supported by over 500 ongoing training groups. According to Founder Olaleye Awe, the Blockchain Ideation Contest represents a pivotal step in showcasing the transformative power of blockchain technology and fostering collaborations that could reshape Africa’s economic landscape.
“Every participant demonstrated a genuine commitment to using blockchain as a tool for financial advancement,” said Awe. “The passion and creativity on display prove that Africa is brimming with talent ready to revolutionize our digital future.”
The contest’s competing teams presented pioneering solutions aimed at tackling real-world challenges in finance, healthcare, and education. The judging panel commended contestants for their originality, practical application, and potential for mass adoption.
“It’s encouraging to see how these young innovators leverage blockchain to solve persistent issues,” said Odunayo Akindote. “We were impressed not only by their technical acumen but also by their dedication to creating sustainable impact.”
Winners of the competition are poised to receive continued mentorship and networking opportunities through Alpha Training Lab’s extensive community. Many of the projects unveiled during the event are expected to attract partners and investors, reflecting an optimistic future for blockchain in Africa.
“As we nurture these ideas, we hope to see more inclusive financial products emerge,” added Adeshina Ajayi. “We’re committed to connecting innovators with resources and platforms that can help them succeed.”
Alpha Training Lab continues its mission to educate, equip, and empower individuals from various backgrounds, ensuring they can harness the potential of blockchain technology. With initiatives like the Ideation Contest, the group anticipates scaling up its activities, ultimately shaping a new generation of Africa-focused blockchain leaders.
Concluding a day full of groundbreaking presentations and professional networking, attendees left with a renewed determination to drive blockchain adoption. The synergy between Luno’s support, the expert panel, and the unwavering enthusiasm of the contestants underscored one central message: Africa’s blockchain revolution is only just beginning.
