The Summer Game Jam challenges kids aged from seven to 14 years to put their coding, design and storytelling skills to the test

Three young coders from Code Ninjas Enfield have proved they’ve got “serious game”.

The talented trio – Zanna, Akay and Javarni – were crowned winners in the Summer Game Jam, an international competition bringing together young creators from across the UK, US and Canada.

Even more impressively, Zanna took home the global title with her original game, Camp Quest, earning top marks from judges worldwide and winning the ultimate gamer’s prize – a Nintendo Switch 2.

Hosted annually by Code Ninjas, the Summer Game Jam challenges kids aged from seven to 14 years to put their coding, design and storytelling skills to the test.

Over the course of the event, participants design and build their own playable video games based on a special theme. It’s a brilliant opportunity for young innovators to flex their creativity, problem-solving and teamwork skills – and to show the world that science, technology, engineering and maths (Stem) subjects can be seriously fun.

Earlier this month, a special celebration was held at Code Ninjas Enfield’s new home – upstairs at Revival Christian Church in London Road – where the winners were presented with medals, certificates and prizes.

Proud families and fellow Ninjas cheered as Zanna received her global award from Mark Fleming, franchise business partner for Code Ninjas UK.

“I’m really thrilled that my game was chosen as the winner,” said Zanna. “I enjoyed challenging myself with the design and music, and my favourite part to create was actually the first level with the owl.

“That’s why I was pleasantly surprised – and happy! – that the judges picked out the Phoenix level instead. This whole experience has inspired me to keep learning and to make even better games!”

At Code Ninjas Enfield, kids learn to code in a safe, inclusive, and social environment, gaining real-world skills that will help them thrive in the future.

Renee Romeo, co-owner of Code Ninjas Enfield, shared her pride in the winners and offered encouragement to all Ninjas hoping to follow in their footsteps: “To all the other ninjas, I want you to look at our winners. They were once where you are now. They faced the same questions and challenges. Let their victory be your motivation. Let it show you that with persistence, every coding adventure is possible.

“Don’t be afraid to try, to fail and to learn from your mistakes. The most exciting code you’ll ever write is the one you haven’t even started yet!”

For more information about Code Ninjas Enfield:
Visit codeninjas.co.uk/enfield-london-uk

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