Explore the innovative solutions crafted at Health Hack, where future healthcare leaders from four Balkan nations took on real-world challenges to make a difference!
About
Health Hack by AstraZeneca recently brought together medical and pharmacy students to tackle real-world healthcare challenges with innovative solutions. Over the course of two days, teams worked on prototypes under the guidance of experienced mentors and presented their ideas to industry leaders. The event gave participants a chance to showcase their creativity and expertise while connecting with top professionals, paving the way for fresh perspectives on the future of healthcare.
Rules and FAQ
Health Hack brought together final-year Pharmacy students (4th and 5th years) and Medicine students (3rd to 6th years), all united by a shared desire to make a real difference in healthcare. These were students who didn’t just dream about change—they were ready to roll up their sleeves and make it happen. Participants needed to be available on-site for the entire competition and confirm they hadn’t previously worked with AstraZeneca in any student roles or internships.
Students could apply either as part of a team or on their own. For those who applied solo, we paired them with others to form new teams or brought them into smaller existing ones, making sure every group had 4 to 6 members.
Although the competition was held in the local language, we were thrilled to welcome international students too. Their diverse backgrounds and ideas brought a fresh, global perspective to the table. And because we didn’t want finances to hold anyone back, there was no participation fee — just passion and commitment.
Teams were free to choose the challenge that excited them most, and as a little bonus, early birds got to lock in their top picks first. The event wrapped up with an electrifying final pitch session. Teams presented their solutions in the local language, using PowerPoint, videos, or whatever creative tools they felt best told their story. Each team had 7 minutes to shine, followed by a 5-minute Q&A, where they could engage directly with the judges, share their vision, and get invaluable feedback.
Winning teams
Health Hack concluded successfully in Slovenia, Serbia, and Bulgaria, with remarkable projects and inspiring winners emerging from each event.
In Slovenia, participants tackled the pressing issue of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The jury selected the Solidago virgaurea team as winners, represented by Meta Furlan, Gaja Pušnik, Tinkara Žula, Tjaša Škerl Rifelj, and Vesna Slatinek, for their innovative approach to improving CKD awareness and care. The audience’s choice award went to Klirtim team, consisting of Amadej Šenk, Mark Muravec, Justin Okai, Liza Habjan and Pia Uršič, who also presented a creative solution aimed at addressing CKD-related challenges.
Moments from event
Throughout the event, I gained valuable skills such as teamwork, collaboration, brainstorming creative ideas within a tight timeframe, and public speaking, all of which will undoubtedly benefit me in future projects.
Vesna Slatinek
It was an unforgettable experience and I'm glad I stepped out of my comfort zone and participated in the hackathon.
Eva Rojc
I recommend this competition to anyone looking to challenge themselves with exciting and innovative projects.
Gaja Pušnik
With expert advice, we developed our idea on multiple levels—both healthcare and economic—which is not something we often encounter in our studies.
Tjaša Škerl Rifelj
The competition itself was incredibly enjoyable and relaxed, as we were guided and supported throughout the entire process by experienced facilitators who taught us various techniques that will be useful in the future.
Tinkara Žula
I met fellow students who share my interests and formed lasting connections with them, as well as professionals who gladly shared their knowledge and experience in pharmacy and entrepreneurship, and an impressive pharmaceutical company with which I share my vision and mission.
Meta Furlan
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