Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) postgraduate student Khanyisa Faith Mokgolobotho has once again proven her innovation prowess after leading her team to first place at the prestigious G20 Tourism Hackathon, held recently in Mpumalanga.
Mokgolobotho, a Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences graduate and Director of TechMedConnect, joined six other students from universities across South Africa to form The Catalysts — the team that took home the R175 000 first prize for their visionary concept, Hologram Hub.
Hosted by the Department of Tourism in collaboration with Geekulcha, the Centre for Public Service Innovation, and the Future Leaders Challenge (FLC), the hackathon brought together 48 students from 21 higher education institutions. Their mission: to design Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions that could make tourism more inclusive, sustainable, and future-ready.
Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille launched the initiative earlier in the year, describing it as “a legacy project that unites government, business, and academia to build a tech-savvy tourism sector.” Participants were challenged to create AI-driven innovations under three key themes: Smart Tourism and AI Solutions, Community-Based Tourism and Rural Inclusion, and Heritage and Cultural Tourism Innovation.
Working over two days at the Sabi River Sun Resort, the students received mentorship from industry experts before presenting their final concepts to a panel of judges comprising academics, tourism specialists, and government representatives. Entries were assessed on innovation, feasibility, user experience, impact, and alignment with people-centred principles.
The Catalysts’ winning idea, Hologram Hub, proposes a digital storytelling platform where rural communities can share their culture and heritage using holographic technology. The platform aims to preserve local history, empower small tourism enterprises, and attract visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences. “Our concept gives communities a voice and visibility,” Mokgolobotho explained. “It bridges innovation with identity — showing that technology can celebrate who we are while driving sustainable tourism.”
The second prize went to Map My Biz, which developed an AI-powered map connecting tourists with rural entrepreneurs, while Ubuntu Unlimited secured third place with a virtual reality tourism platform showcasing African heritage sites.
Minister De Lille praised the students’ creativity and commitment, noting that their projects would receive further support for commercialisation. “This year, we challenged young people to think big and showcase their skills to the world,” she said. “We are investing in solutions that are ethical, inclusive, and sustainable. The winning innovations will be accelerated for real-world implementation with support from the Department and our partners.”
The top three teams were also invited to present their solutions before G20 tourism ministers at Skukuza, Kruger National Park, marking a career-defining moment for the young innovators.
For Mokgolobotho, who has previously won five hackathons and now works as a Graduate Software Development Engineer at PyCentric, this victory reaffirms her mission to merge technology and social impact. “Winning is more than a trophy — it’s proof that innovation from African youth can shape global conversations,” she said.
Through determination, collaboration, and creativity, The Catalysts have not only secured national recognition but also spotlighted the potential of South African students to reimagine the future of tourism through technology.
By Tumelo Moila
