(1/19) Recap 2021 - Before 10 Computer Labs

When Tyler and I were working as software engineers in Chicago, we were uneasy about all the computers going to waste after being upgraded. I knew that back in my hometown, any one of those computers could be life changing.

We started TechLit Africa because we believe that redistributing technology is an effective solution to poverty. Our theory of change is that by enabling youth to join the digital economy, entire communities will lift themselves out of poverty.

In April 2019, we quit our jobs and spent five months in Kenya. We learned from that trip that working with kids is the path of least resistance. Primary schools in Kenya had facilities to host computer classes, and kids were very eager to learn digital skills. We knew we had a recipe for success this time.

After our trip in 2019, our goal was to build 10 computer labs. So we came back and shipped enough computers for 10 labs. Before the computers arrived, Kenyan schools were shut down from covid. When Covid restrictions were lifted this year, we got to work.