Bonteheuwel Coding Crew Takes on the World and Shines
The Bonteheuwel Library Coding Crew has gained international recognition by competing in the Tangible Games Coding World Cup, where they achieved an impressive rank of 20th out of 340 teams worldwide. What started as a small community coding initiative has quickly transformed into a beacon of youth potential, innovation, and teamwork.
The coding crew was established in early 2024, but it gained significant momentum in April 2025 when YeBoneer Alexis became the new leader of the program. After receiving training from YearBeyond's Jackson Tshabalala, she took charge of the library's developing coding initiative, aiming to equip local youth with essential digital skills. The library quickly transformed into a creative hub where children gathered to learn, play, solve problems, and imagine beyond their community's boundaries.
A typical coding session at the library is energetic and interactive. Using coding apps like Rangers, Tanks, and Juicy Germs, young coders tackle challenges, often learning through trial and error, teamwork, and testing new ideas. With the support of library staff, including Charne Davids, the group steadily grew into a committed and highly motivated team.
Their journey to the international stage began when Alexis organized a practice tournament to assess their readiness. After performing well in the national competition and advancing through the Tangible Games online rankings, the team secured a spot in the World Cup Coding Competition. When the results were announced, excitement, disbelief, and pride spread throughout the entire club.
Competing against 340 teams from around the world was both thrilling and intense. “It was amazing to see our team representing Bonteheuwel Library and the community on such a big stage,” says Alexis. The event, held at the Amazon CPT14 building in Cape Town, tested their focus, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork under pressure. When technical challenges and data shortages threatened to slow them down, support from mentor Patricia April and dedicated library staff—Jacqueline Victor, Charne Davids, Kenneth Petersen, and Joseph Everts—helped keep the team engaged and on track.
Each young coder brought something unique to the team. Lutha Ganga, the strongest coder and a natural leader, stood out for his calm demeanor and sharp problem-solving skills. According to Alexis, team members like Aeesha Abrahams, Abu Bakr Abrahams, and AbuBakr Jacobs demonstrated incredible growth and enthusiasm. Others, such as Rameez Jardien, Imaan Raven, Tammy Green, Akeefah Mahon, Reneshia Carelse, Mckyle Williams, and Aiden Magerman, showcased quick learning, teamwork, and resilience.
The achievement of the Bonteheuwel team carries profound significance. It challenges long-held stereotypes and demonstrates that talent can be found in all communities, especially in those that are under-resourced. The Coding World Cup not only opened doors for these young coders but also built their confidence and affirmed that their dreams are valid.
Beyond the competition itself, the greatest victory for the coding team lies in how much the members have grown, not only as coders but also as leaders and critical thinkers. Most of them entered the library with little to no coding experience, yet they left the World Cup with newfound confidence, enhanced problem-solving skills, and a stronger belief in their own potential. This journey illustrates how a supportive community space, guided by passionate mentors, can transform young lives and create opportunities that once seemed unreachable.
