The Nonprofit Hackathon: Through the eyes of a Graduate Functional Consultant

Published 15/10/24 under:

As a Graduate Functional Consultant for Dynamics 365 CE, I recently had the fantastic opportunity to take part in a ‘Nonprofit Hackathon’ organised by Kerv. This event brought together a variety of nonprofit organisations, including some current clients, alongside leading industry experts and our talented Kerv team members, creating an exciting atmosphere filled with creativity and collaboration.

Stepping into a room full of clients can be a bit intimidating, particularly for a Graduate. However, from the moment I arrived, I felt a warm and energetic vibe that truly reflected Kerv’s welcoming culture and the strong relationships that have been built over time.

The event kicked off with an introduction to the day and the proposed challenges, we were then split into teams and tasked with developing a solution within just 4 to 6 hours. While the time pressure was intense, it was also exhilarating, pushing us to think on our feet and draw on the diverse experiences within our teams.

One of the highlights of the day was the sense of solidarity that developed among team members. Our company values emphasise collaboration and building strong relationships, and this event was a perfect example of that spirit. Working alongside colleagues and interacting with clients in a relaxed setting allowed us to forge deeper connections and build on meaningful conversations.

As someone new to Dynamics 365, I was genuinely impressed by how quickly teams came up with innovative solutions. It showcased not just technical skills but also a solid understanding of business needs. The creativity and resourcefulness on display really highlighted how effectively we can use Microsoft Cloud technology to tackle real-world problems.

I’m thrilled to say that my team came out on top! While winning was an incredible rush, the real highlight for me was the learning experience throughout the day. The Hackathon wasn’t just a competition; it was a great chance to support the nonprofit community whilst strengthening relationships and showing our commitment to the sector.

I left the event with new connections and a renewed enthusiasm for learning about different Dynamics products. As I continue my journey as a Graduate Functional Consultant, I’m excited about the opportunities ahead—both for my growth and for the impactful solutions we can create together!