Jakarta – In a moment that highlights Southeast Asia’s growing digital talent pool, Sherly Phangestu, a computer science student from Indonesia, garnered personal praise from Apple CEO Tim Cook for her innovative app, Plant Heroes, during the Swift Student Challenge 2025.
The recognition took place at the prestigious Apple Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) held from June 10 to 14, 2025. Sherly, a student at Binus University Alam Sutera, was named a Distinguished Winner—one of only 50 elite developers selected among hundreds of global participants.
According to Tim Cook, Sherly’s app stood out for its educational value and creativity. He commended Plant Heroes for merging purposeful technology with a meaningful user experience, highlighting its potential impact in the Indonesian and wider ASEAN app development ecosystem.
The accolade reflects not only individual excellence but also the region’s increasing role in the global innovation arena. With initiatives such as Apple’s Swift Student Challenge, emerging developers from Southeast Asia gain the exposure and opportunity to engage with world-class platforms.
Sherly’s path was shaped by her participation in the Apple Developer Academy hosted at Binus. Through this intensive program, she deepened her understanding of the iOS ecosystem and refined her skills in application development. The Swift Student Challenge further honed her abilities in problem-solving, design thinking, and digital innovation.
In a message shared through the Binus University platform, Sherly encouraged fellow students across the region to seize opportunities and focus on learning over results. “The process is what shapes you into your best self,” she reflected, urging young people to stay courageous and open to challenges.
The Swift Student Challenge is part of Apple’s global initiative to foster young programmers and creative thinkers through Swift, its programming language. In the 2025 edition, 350 winners were selected, with 50 Distinguished Winners, including Sherly, being invited to Apple Park in Cupertino, California.
Sherly Phangestu’s achievement is not only a personal milestone, but a testament to the growing caliber of tech talent in ASEAN. As digital economies expand across the region, her success is a strong reminder of the transformative potential of education, innovation, and regional collaboration.
