Next Step Foundation

AI depends on data, but bad data can make it unfair and untrustworthy. Open, honest data practices are key to building tech that’s fair for everyone. At Next Step Foundation, our goal is to make sure AI helps people thrive, fits our cultures, and reduces unfairness. #AIAfrica #TechForAfrica Learn more how we are advancing this in Africa: https://lnkd.in/dzMAvQUn Matthew M. Ai4SDG

I had the honour of moderating the "Accessibility as a Right" session during British Council Kenya's Open Day—a crucial conversation on how we can make digital and physical spaces truly inclusive. Joined by incredible thought leaders and accessibility champions—Allan Maonga Were (MIHRM), Teddy Nzioka, Julius Mbura, Steve Mugambi (NCPWD), and Irene Gitangu—we tackled key issues shaping disability inclusion today: ? Embedding Accessibility from the Start – Organizations must integrate digital and physical accessibility into their work and program design, not as a last-minute fix but as a fundamental principle. ? Leveraging Kenya’s Accessibility Standard for ICT – This framework is a game-changer, yet many organizations have yet to fully implement it. How can we ensure digital platforms work for everyone? ? Moving Beyond Policies to Action – The Persons with Disabilities Bill is a step forward, but true inclusion requires enforcement, funding, and collaboration across sectors. ?? Inclusion isn't just about access to technology—it’s about designing systems that empower! Despite advancements in assistive tech and inclusive design, PWDs continue to face barriers in education, employment, and digital participation. This is not just a tech-sector issue—corporations, government agencies, educational institutions, and startups all have a role to play in making accessibility the norm, not an exception. The time to act is now. Let’s turn policies into impact and make inclusion a reality. ?? #AccessibilityForAll #InclusiveDesign #DigitalInclusion #PWDAdvocacy #DisabilityRights Next Step Foundation

Last week, global innovators and thought leaders converged at the United Nations Office in Vienna to break down barriers and reimagine inclusive futures. The energy was palpable—from dynamic opening ceremonies and transformative Fireside Chats to powerful keynote sessions that redefined what is possible for inclusive employment and assistive technology. It was a privilege to witness this momentum firsthand. Our founder, Christopher Harrison, J.D., Ph.D.,?alongside our board member Bernard Chiira, absorbed every insight and celebrated the spirit of collaboration and innovation. Moments like these remind us that when diverse voices unite, technology becomes a true enabler of change. #AssistiveTech #ZeroCon25?#ZeroProject2025!?

Empowering women is not just a noble goal—it is a transformative force for communities and economies. When women gain access to digital skills, the ripple effects are profound: stronger economies, resilient families, and empowered communities. In the article, we dive into how digital skills, tech innovation, and inclusive opportunities are reshaping lives across Kenya and beyond. Read the full article as we continue to #AccelerateAction toward a world with zero barriers. #WomenInTech #DigitalInclusion #NextStepFoundation

Now that Zero Project 2025 has wrapped up, we are excited to continue the momentum around #AI and #assistivetechnology by launching a new project to study the potential for AI to improve the lives of Persons with Disabilities in Africa. Working with Artificial Intelligence for Development (AI4D), a joint endeavor between the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC), which supports policies, innovations, and expanded leadership to spur safe and responsible AI in Africa and Asia, Next Step Foundation, Assistive Technologies for Disability Trust, and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi's Responsible Artificial Intelligence Lab?(RAIL) will be looking at the current state of AI and disability in Africa to develop a comprehensive, evidence-based report that will guide the development of disability AI solutions in the Global South. Stay tuned for additional information and updates! Bernard Chiira, Jerry John Kponyo

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