Two young developers from Saudi Arabia have recently been recognised as global winners in Apple’s developer programme. Jawaher Shaman, the innovative mind behind the My Child app, has been named one of the top three “distinguished winners” of the Swift Student Challenge. Her app, designed to assist individuals with speech conditions, has caught the attention of tech experts from around the world, highlighting the great potential of the region in the ever-growing field of technology.
Ms Shaman’s inspiration for the My Child app came from her personal struggle with stuttering, which began at a young age. She has expressed her hopes to use technology as a means to aid children who may be facing similar challenges as she once did, emphasising the importance of creating a more inclusive world for neurodivergent individuals. As a future programmer in Saudi Arabia, Ms Shaman aims to continue using her skills to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
Another outstanding developer from Saudi Arabia is Afrah bin Jubayr, who created the Fin’s Adventure app with the goal of raising awareness about environmental conservation. Her dedication to using her coding skills for meaningful purposes is truly commendable and serves as an inspiration to aspiring young developers.
Both Ms Shaman and Ms Bin Jubayr, who are 27 years old and based in Riyadh, attend the Apple Developer Academy in the Saudi capital. This institution, which opened in 2022, focuses on empowering female developers and providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the tech industry. The accomplishments of these young Saudi developers are a testament to the positive impact of such educational initiatives and exemplify the potential for further growth and innovation in the region.
Apple’s investment in the development of young talent is reflected in the success of its various developer academies around the world. The company’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of developers has led to the creation of over 1,500 apps and the establishment of more than 160 companies by students who have participated in these programmes.
In the Middle East, governments are also recognising the significance of coding and digital skills for the future. Initiatives such as the One Million Arab Coders in Dubai and the increasing support for technology education in Saudi Arabia are evidence of the region’s dedication to fostering a thriving tech community.
The accomplishments of young developers like Jawaher Shaman and Afrah bin Jubayr serve as a reminder of the remarkable potential that exists within the Middle East’s technology sector. Their innovative apps and dedication to making a positive impact are an inspiration to aspiring developers around the world. With continued support and investment in tech education, the region is poised to become a hub for future innovation and creativity in the global tech landscape.