Next Step Foundation

Digital inclusion goes beyond connectivity, it empowers women with real opportunities. This #InternationalWomen’sDay, we are here to say that empowering women isn’t just the right thing to do, it strengthens economies, too. UN Women’s research shows that when women gain digital skills, economies grow stronger, and communities become more resilient. Across Africa, women aren’t just keeping up, they are reshaping the future. At Next Step Foundation, we aim to empower women, Persons with Disabilities, and youth by providing digital skills training and creating pathways to participate in the digital economy. We join the rest of the world in celebrating the trailblazing women driving inclusive innovation and bridging the digital divide in Africa. #WomenInTech #DigitalInclusion #NextStepFoundation

We are proud to have our Executive Chairman, Christopher Harrison, J.D., Ph.D., representing us at #ZeroCon25! This week, over 1,000 innovators from 90+ countries have gathered at the United Nations Office in Vienna, focusing on Employment and ICT—perfectly aligning with our mission to bridge the digital divide and create career pathways for persons with disabilities. “Every conversation here sparks a new possibility for transforming workplace inclusion,” says Christopher as he dives into discussions on how AI is revolutionizing assistive technologies—enhancing features, reducing costs, and improving lives. On the ground, he’s connecting with global partners to enhance our employment programs and identify practical, implementable solutions. This global community of changemakers is truly invaluable. #DisabilityInclusion #AccessibleTech #ZeroProject #NextStepFoundation ID: Photo of our Chairman Christopher Harrison

Big news! Next Step Foundation is partnering with 4C Mental Health to bring life-changing mental health skills to Kenya’s youth with disabilities. In Kenya, where certified counselors are severely lacking, and globally where mental health professionals are in short supply, innovative approaches are essential. Read why this partnership works. #PeerSupport #SocialGood

In Kenya, about 900,000 people, 2.2% of the population, live with disabilities, with 42% facing mobility challenges. On Wheelchair Day, we highlight why inclusive design matters. Thoughtful spaces don’t just boost productivity, they spark respect, innovation, and economic inclusion, reducing barriers for all. Data inspires us: accessibility drives real change. As leaders in digital inclusion, we invite you to join this conversation. #WheelchairDay #Accessibility #NextStepFoundation

1st March, on International Wheelchair Day, Upili recognizes the role wheelchairs play in the lives of millions worldwide. For many, a wheelchair is more than a mobility aid, it represents freedom, independence, and dignity. It makes everyday life possible, allowing individuals to move, work, and participate fully in their communities. Meet kennedy kimeli, a committed advocate, social worker, and peer counselor working to support Children & Youth with #Disabilities. Kennedy is currently working in partnership with Upili training to become an Upili Aide, where he will work directly with students to strengthen confidence and well-being. For Kennedy his wheelchair is more than a piece of equipment. It is a right to access spaces, opportunities, and experiences without limits. In Kennedy’s words: "A wheelchair is not just a tool, it’s freedom. It means being part of the world, having independence, and moving with confidence. Through my work with Upili, I want to support others who use wheelchairs to speak up, be seen, and push for a more #accessible society." Kennedy has already made an impact in #Kenya, advocating for better infrastructure and policies and working to ensure mobility challenges do not prevent #inclusion. The reality, however, remains: millions globally still do not have access to the wheelchairs they need. International Wheelchair Day is a reminder to us all to advocate for stronger policies, and lasting solutions so no one is left behind. As Kennedy prepares to officially join Upili, we look forward to the work he will continue to do. Today and every day let’s work toward a world where mobility is a right, not a privilege. #InternationalWheelchairDay

This is what inclusion looks like: pushing boundaries, redefining what’s possible, and inspiring others—whether on a mountain or in everyday life. We are proud of our board member Asiya’s Mt. Kilimanjaro climb. We’re honored to have her in our community, showing the world that disability doesn’t limit determination.

“If Africa does not define its own AI future, others will—and they’re already trying to do it for us.” As digital transformation accelerates across the continent, the challenge goes beyond simply adopting AI. It’s about creating an AI ecosystem that truly reflects Africa’s distinct needs, cultures, and aspirations. These insights come from Ambassador H.E Philip Thigo, MBS, our esteemed keynote speaker at our Ai4SDG Centre launch last year, and they carry even greater weight today. He highlighted a pressing reality: despite Africa’s technological progress, many are still excluded from digital innovation. Thigo emphasizes that empowering local talent, securing data sovereignty, and fostering collaboration across sectors are vital to ensure AI serves all, not just a select few. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/dp69YgAb #AIAfrica #TechForAfrica

Our Next Step Foundation team joined friends from other organizations at the UN-led dialogue on the 2025–2027 Disability Inclusion strategy. We believe everyone, no matter their ability, should have a chance to thrive in the digital economy. To us, creating skilled, inclusive workforces isn’t just fair—it lifts communities and grows opportunity for all. With our RAATT Model (Recruit, Assess, Accommodate, Train, Transition) and smart use of AI, we are helping Persons with Disabilities, women, and youth step into meaningful digital jobs—work that empowers and builds a better future. What’s your hope for an inclusive tomorrow? Share below—let’s shape it together. #DisabilityInclusion #InclusiveWorkplace ID: Our team with friends at the event, smiling for the camera.

Excluding Persons with Disabilities could cost our economy over KSh1.1 trillion each year! Here is how leaders at the UN Partners Retreat are rethinking Disability Inclusion—shifting from policy to real-world change. ? Read our full story on the bold ideas and actionable insights that are setting the stage for a truly inclusive future. UNDP KENYA

According to the Stanford AI Index Report 2024, only 10% of global AI projects focus on accessibility and disability inclusion, leaving many communities behind. A study also found that AI systems often reflect biases if diverse teams aren’t involved. AI has immense potential to drive equity, but these challenges threaten its impact. Which issue do you think is most critical to address? Join the discussion on building ethical, inclusive AI. #EthicalAI #InclusiveInnovation