ACM Conference on Equity and Access in Algorithms, Mechanisms, and Optimization 2024

A Hackathon with Purpose: Addressing Breast Cancer in Mexico

As part of the ACM EAAMO’24 conference, I had the privilege of co-organizing a socially responsible hackathon focused on “Breast Cancer in Mexico.” The event, supported by EAAMO (Equity and Access in Algorithms, Mechanisms, and Optimization), the Autonomous University of San Luis Potosí (Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí), and the Potosino Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (Instituto Potosino de Investigación Científica y Tecnológica), brought together a diverse group of passionate researchers, students, and professionals to tackle one of the country’s most pressing healthcare issues. A big shoutout to Francisco Marmolejo-Cossío who made an extraordinary effort to make this event happen.

Mentoring the Next Generation of Researchers

Beyond organizing the hackathon, I had the honor of mentoring Edna Marlene Martínez Hernández, a talented student from the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, as part of the REDNACECYT 2024 Summer of Science program. Her research focused on understanding the perception of mental health among older adults in indigenous communities, with a particular emphasis on the high prevalence of depression in these historically underserved populations.

Her dedication led to the creation of a research poster titled “Mental Health: Prevalence of Depression in Older Adults in an Indigenous Community,” which she successfully presented at ACM EAAMO’24. The REDNACECYT 2024 Summer of Science program, a collaboration between EAAMO and the National Network of Science and Technology Councils and Organizations of Mexico (REDNACECYT), aims to harness algorithmic techniques, optimization, and mechanism design to address social challenges. Edna Marlene, hailing from the Tenek community in Aquismón, San Luis Potosí, represents a powerful example of how mentorship and education can drive meaningful change in communities that need it most.

Supporting Emerging Scholars at the Doctoral Consortium

At EAAMO’24, I also had the opportunity to serve as a mentor for PhD students and postdoctoral researchers at the Doctoral Consortium. This forum provided young scholars with a space to discuss their research, receive constructive feedback, and explore potential collaborations with established researchers from various fields. The discussions covered a range of topics, from algorithmic fairness and ethical AI to policy interventions for social good, reinforcing the interdisciplinary and impactful mission of EAAMO.

Looking Forward: Bridging Research and Practice

The experiences at ACM EAAMO’24 reaffirmed my belief in the power of academic research when combined with real-world applications. Events like socially responsible hackathons and mentorship initiatives not only foster knowledge exchange but also create opportunities for addressing systemic inequalities. By bridging research and practice, we can contribute to a future where technological advancements benefit all, particularly those in marginalized and underserved communities.

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an inspiring conference and look forward to continuing collaborations that make a tangible difference. If you are interested in contributing to similar initiatives, consider joining us in future editions of EAAMO and engaging with researchers and practitioners dedicated to equity and access in computing and optimization.