Upili

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 at Upili could not be more proud of or excited about the potential of this partnership. Launching with Asiya Mohamed and kennedy kimeli our Upili Aide program focused on training Laypersons with Disabilities to fill the gap in needed psychosocial support, is both innovative and encouraging.

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

A victory for #disability rights in Kenya. The #Kenya National Assembly recently passed the Persons with Disabilities Bill supported by Senator Crystal Asige a tireless advocate for #inclusion and #accessibility The legislation reinforces rights and opportunities for Persons with #Disabilities in Kenya. It includes: ?? Inclusive Healthcare Hospitals must utilize accessible desks, employees must be trained in disability-specific care, and provide sign language-interpreters for Deaf patients. ?? The National Council for Persons with Disabilities will now register accessibility auditors to ensure all buildings, transportation and general public services meet accessibility specifications. ?? Lifetime Tax Exemption Persons with Disabilities will now receive lifetime income tax exemption certificates. ?? Tax Benefits for Caregivers & Employers Caregivers of Persons with Disabilities, and employers will now receive tax exemptions and incentives. The bill marks a defining moment in Kenya's shift toward universal accessibility and equal rights for all citizens. Full details here: https://lnkd.in/g_WGCpc8

One of Upili 's pillar of action is Caregiver Suppor where we educate Caregivers around disability acceptance and support at home. Through our partnership with Kenya Institute of Special Education I was invited to be part of the panelist during their Parental Engagement Forum last Friday. It was amazing to part the event and above all seeing large turn out of parents raising children with disabilities. The event was to show support to the parents/caregivers, and the great work they are doing and getting them to hear successful stories from persons with disability, as well as parents/caregivers. Speakers pointed out key areas parents/caregivers should be aware of 1. Mental Health 2. Support system 3. Encouraging the child to develop some self independence one speaker said "the level of support/vision determines the success of the child." this statement hit home when I look back at my achievement it's because someone supported and saw the vision through my lens. Forums/events are support system for many.

The Next Step Foundation, in collaboration with our partners, invites applications for a free?5-day?basic digital skilling?program themed?'Skills for Inclusive Digital Participation.' The project is funded by the UK government and implemented by the British Council in partnership with the?Next Step Foundation in Nairobi County. This initiative aims to unlock the digital future for #PersonswithDisabilities by equipping them with essential digital skills, enabling access to digital opportunities and government services. ? Do you know someone who could benefit? Please share this post and help them apply today: bit.ly/40RLznb

The largest minority group in the world is People With Disabilities "Let’s talk about Data-Driven Advocacy! Did you know that only 4% of U.S. nonprofit board seats are held by individuals with disabilities, despite PWDs making up 15% of the global population. What about Africa? You ask.—Well, that is one of the Pandora’s box I am eager to explore during my master’s research. Stay tuned—we'll revisit..." Disability Representation in Nonprofit Leadership 4% of U.S. nonprofit board seats are held by PWDs. 34% of organizations have at least one board member with a disclosed disability. Only 6% of board chairs and 9% of executive directors identify as PWDs. Source: Candid, Urban Institute PWDs represent 15% of the global population, highlighting a significant leadership gap. Impact of Diversity on Innovation and Profitability 27% more likely to financially outperform (gender diversity). 39% more likely to financially outperform (ethnic diversity). 29% more profitable and twice as likely to innovate with diverse leadership. Sources: McKinsey & Company, Harvard Business School Disability-Led NGOs and Representation 80% of disability-focused NGOs lack PWD leadership. PWD-led organizations design more accessible programs and build stronger community trust. Sources: Global Disability Summit 2022, International Disability Alliance Global Disability Statistics 1 billion people (15%) live with some form of disability. Source: World Health Organization Employment and Economic Participation PWDs are twice as likely to be unemployed. Inclusive hiring boosts productivity and employee satisfaction. Source: International Labour Organization Contextual Insights Diverse leadership drives higher trust, better policy design, and enhanced accountability. Organizations prioritizing executive diversity are 33% more likely to exceed financial targets. NGOs led by PWDs are 37% more effective in meeting community needs. Sources: McKinsey & Company, International Disability Alliance Now you know. Credits —ChatGPT —The table, analysis, and organising. —Gemini AI —Analysing and organising. —HP —Commitment to Innovation and accessibility in their laptops.

? Historic Win for Mental Health Advocacy in Kenya! In a groundbreaking ruling, Judge Mugambi has declared Section 226 of the Penal Code CAP 63, which criminalized attempted suicide, unconstitutional. This law, which punished survivors with up to two years in prison, fines, or both, has finally been recognized as violating the fundamental rights guaranteed under by the Kenyan Constitution. The decision affirms what those of us at Next Step Foundation’s Upili program have long known: Suicide is not a crime, it’s a public health issue that requires compassion and care. Criminalizing suicide only perpetuated the stigma, robbing survivors of dignity (Article 28), discriminating against them based on their health condition (Article 27), and denying them access to the highest attainable standard of health (Article 43). At Upili, we understand the importance of meeting mental health challenges with support, not punishment. Through group counselling, we empower Youth with Disabilities to process trauma, build resilience, and embrace self-advocacy, while promoting dignity and equality at every stage. This step forward is monumental, but it’s not the end. Let’s keep working together to ensure seeking and receiving mental health support is free from stigma, judgment, and barriers. https://lnkd.in/gMwdHk3F #MentalHealth #Inclusion

10 lesser known facts about Braille for #WorldBrailleDay2025: ?? Military Origins: Braille began as a French military code called "night writing" in 1819, adapted by 15-year-old Louis Braille into the system we know today. ?? Inventor’s Tool: Louis Braille lost his sight due to an accident with an awl. Surprisingly he later used an awl to create the first Braille dots. ?? Rubik’s Challenge: There’s a Braille version of the Rubik’s Cube—perfect for puzzle lovers who are blind or visually impaired. ?? Pop Culture: Rihanna incorporated Braille into her 2016 album Anti and the cover for her single 'FourFiveSeconds.' ?? Asteroid Tribute: NASA named asteroid “9969 Braille” in honor of Louis Braille after imaging it in 1999. ?? Supersized Books: Braille books are much larger. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire spans ten Braille volumes! ?? Speed Reading: English Braille uses 180 contractions and 75 short-form words, making reading faster and more space-efficient. ?? Historical Roots: Braille wasn’t the first writing system for the blind. Valentin Haüy’s embossed type system came earlier but wasn’t practical for writing. ?? Language Diversity: Braille systems vary by language, however Unified English Braille (UEB) promotes consistency in English-speaking regions. ?? Global Access: The Marrakesh Treaty, adopted in 2013, makes books accessible in Braille *worldwide*. #Africa #Inclusion #Accessibility

As 2024 comes to a close, we look back on a year filled with moments of transformation and impact. Swipe through to revisit the highlights that shaped our journey. Here's to an even brighter 2024! ???#NextStepFoundation