Next Step Foundation

We are excited to unveil our latest Impact Report for 2023, showcasing the remarkable strides we've taken alongside our dedicated participants and supporters – individuals like you who champion our cause! Together, we're making a tangible difference in the lives of many. At Next Step Foundation, our mission is clear: We harness the power of technology to train and upskill individuals from underserved communities, with a special focus on Persons with Disabilities, Women and Youth. Our goal? To equip and empower them to fully engage in the new digital economy through job placements and career opportunities. Dive into our report to discover the highlights of the past year and get a sneak peek into our ambitious plans for the year ahead! https://lnkd.in/gkQmmhvg #ImpactReport2023 #NextStepFoundation

Christopher’s story is one of growth and empowerment. After completing our Upskilling program, he is now on his way to working in the tech sector. Christopher shares how this program not only enhanced his skills but also helped him overcome his stammering and gain the confidence to pursue opportunities he once thought out of reach. The digital economy is not just for a few—it’s for everyone. With access to the right tools and training, people like Christopher are proving they belong in the workforce. Let’s continue to break barriers with technology. Watch the full story here: https://lnkd.in/dpeJKn2v #TechForAll #FutureofWork

We are excited to announce a new partnership between the Next Step Foundation and CPF Group Foundation, formalized earlier this week with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Our CEO, Peres Were-Ogaga, and Dr. Hosea Kili, OGW, Managing Director/CEO and Interim Board Chair of CPF Group Foundation, signed the MoU to cement our collaboration. This partnership aims to raise awareness of the rights of persons living with disabilities, particularly older people while advocating for the adoption of inclusive and sustainable practices. The CPF Foundation, a not-for-profit organization, is dedicated to driving measurable improvements in the care and dignity of older persons within the communities where the CPF Group operates. This collaboration marks an important step towards our collective commitment to ensuring every individual—regardless of ability—can live with dignity and have equal access to opportunities. Kabale Sharamo Martin Masara Allan Maonga Were (MIHRM) ID: Joyful individuals in a brightly lit room, participating in the signing of the partnership and posing for a photo.

On #WorldFoodDay, we are reminded that food is more than nourishment. We envision a world where nutritious food is accessible to all, benefiting every community. As we champion technology for social good and creating meaningful work for marginalized communities—Persons with Disabilities, women, and youth—we also celebrate organizations using tech to tackle the food crisis. Today, we’re spotlighting Food 4 Education, an organization revolutionizing school food programs in Kenya. What started as a small initiative has grown into a movement serving over 100,000 students daily, improving school attendance, and academic performance, and creating local jobs. Recently recognized by The Audacious Project and Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation, Food 4 Education is proving that access to nutritious meals is key to unlocking a better future for children. We believe that before empowerment and opportunity can thrive, basic needs like food security must be addressed. Want to learn more about how innovation and compassion are reshaping Africa’s future? https://lnkd.in/dtfqUkqM #TechForGood Food For Education Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation

An estimated 122 million girls worldwide are out of school, facing barriers that limit their future prospects. However, digital transformation offers a new frontier to bridge this gap. Global initiatives are empowering girls with tech skills, opening up opportunities in fields like AI and STEM. Yet, access to these opportunities remains unequal. On this International #DayoftheGirl Child, we remain committed to our mission of closing this gap by providing women with the digital tools and resources they need to thrive in the digital economy. By expanding programs and prioritizing digital inclusion, we can create long-term, equitable solutions that ensure every girl has the opportunity to succeed. #GirlsInTech #EducationForAll 

Mental health challenges are increasing, affecting nearly 1 in 8 people globally. Despite this, stigma and lack of support continue to prevent millions from seeking help.   Many organizations and governments are ramping up efforts to destigmatize mental health, but more inclusive programs are needed, especially in workplaces and institutions, to make support accessible for all.   We believe that fostering inclusivity and community-based support systems can greatly enhance mental health and well-being. By integrating technology and AI into mental health care, we can revolutionize how mental health services are delivered, making them more personalized and accessible. #WorldMentalHealthDay

In Africa, millions of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) face significant accessibility challenges. From AI-powered sign language tools to 3D-printed prosthetics, technology is creating real opportunities for them, despite ongoing issues like funding, data access, and digital skills gaps that still hold back progress. With demand for assistive tech expected to double by 2050, now is the time for Africa to invest in strategic solutions to close the gap with the rest of the world. Want to know how #AI can transform accessibility for PWDs in Africa? Read more: https://lnkd.in/dkbq-6_k #Innovation

Data suggests that the unemployment rate for persons with disabilities is about twice that of those without. At the heart of #innovation, neurodiverse talent is charting new frontiers in AI. With a natural ability to hyper-focus and excel in intricate tasks, they are transforming industries like data labeling and driving advancements in AI solutions. Aligned with like-minded organizations that recognize the power of diverse thinking, the Next Step Foundation is addressing challenges related to the employability and inclusion of people with disabilities by leveraging technology to shape the future of work.

Highlights from our recent Data Annotation Program graduation, where we celebrated the achievements of our graduates in partnership with CHANCEN International. Their support through the ethical financing model was pivotal to the program's success. Our graduates shared their inspiring journeys, while our employment partners provided valuable advice on navigating the exciting career opportunities ahead. We were truly impressed by their energy and potential and can’t wait to see what they will go on to achieve. Watch the full highlight here: https://lnkd.in/gYKs2sDw

There are approximately 1.3 billion people with disabilities in the world. Organizations are also acknowledging that pursuing effective and sustainable disability inclusion will not only profile their business as one adhering good practices but is also beneficial for all involved. Join us on October 15th, 2024 for an exclusive breakfast meeting that will help demonstrate how disability inclusion can fuel your business’ success. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from inclusion experts and start your journey towards a more inclusive and profitable future! To register, please click the link provided; https://lnkd.in/dK4yrn8f #DisabilityInclusion #InclusionMatters