(3 Minutes Read)
A team of students from The African Leadership University, Machakos University, Technical University of Mombasa, and United States International University–Africa (USIU-A) has been named one of the top three finalists in the global Microsoft Imagine Cup competition. The announcement was made during the Microsoft Build conference this week.
Now in its 23rd year, the Imagine Cup is Microsoft’s flagship global technology competition, spotlighting student-led innovations using AI. In 2025, over 15,000 students from 150 countries participated, with just 18 semi-finalists making it to the final round, ultimately narrowed down to three top teams.
Kenya’s finalist team, comprising Anthony Marugu, Branice Kazira, Gheida Abdala Al Mashjery, and Daniel Phillip, developed Signvrse—an AI-powered platform designed to bridge communication gaps between Deaf and hearing communities. Their tool, Terp, leverages Microsoft Azure AI and motion capture to deliver real-time sign language translation via hyper-realistic 3D avatars. This solution addresses a global shortage of human interpreters and expands communication access across education, healthcare, and workplaces.
With a growing sign vocabulary exceeding 2,300 words and a community-driven approach to expansion, Signvrse aims to scale accessibility worldwide. More than just a translation tool, the platform is positioned as a catalyst for digital inclusivity and Deaf empowerment.
Team member Daniel Phillip, who has grown up Deaf, shared how his experience with stigma inspired the solution. Through Signvrse, he and his team aim to challenge misconceptions about Deaf individuals and promote their full inclusion in society.
This recognition continues a strong track record for Kenyan innovation at the Imagine Cup. Previous winners include Team TAWI (2023), who developed a communication aid for children with Auditory Processing Disorder, and Team REWEBA (2021), who created a device for remote postnatal screenings.
Read Also;
“We’re incredibly proud of the Signvrse team for representing Kenya and Africa on such a prestigious stage. Their work reflects the creativity and ingenuity of African youth tackling real-world challenges through technology”, stated Phyllis Migwi, Microsoft Kenya Country Manager
The winning team, Argus from the United States, took home the Imagine Cup trophy, a USD 100,000 cash prize, and a mentorship session with Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella. Signvrse, as one of the two runner-ups, received USD 25,000 in prize money.
Arabic
Chinese (Simplified)
Danish
English
French
Hindi
Italian
Norwegian
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Swedish