Across many coastal communities in Kenya, access to technology and digital skills remains limited, particularly for young women. According to reports by the Communications Authority of Kenya and the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, computer usage and reliable internet access remain uneven across the country, with many underserved communities still lacking exposure to digital tools and opportunities. This digital divide can prevent young people from fully participating in the growing digital economy.

A Beginning Marked by Uncertainty

Before joining Pwani Teknowgalz, Zeinab had just completed high school and found herself uncertain about her future. Growing up in a community where exposure to technology was limited, she had little experience with computers or digital tools. Her days were mostly unstructured, and like many young people navigating life after high school, she spent much of her time at home watching movies and thinking about what direction her life would take. Although she wanted to do something meaningful, she lacked access to opportunities and guidance that could help her move forward. Everything began to change in 2023 when her elder sister encouraged her to join Pwani Teknowgalz, opening the door to a new path she had never imagined.

Discovering the Digital World

When Zeinab joined the Digital literacy program in November 2023, she had never used a computer before. Even simple tasks such as navigating a desktop or opening applications felt intimidating. She began learning the basics of computer use in a supportive and encouraging learning environment. With the guidance of patient trainers and the opportunity to practice regularly, Zeinab gradually gained confidence. Within a short time, she realized that the skills she once thought were difficult were actually achievable with practice and determination.

Building Skills that Shape a Career Path

During her training, Zeinab developed strong foundational digital skills. She gained proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access, while also learning graphic design, digital marketing, and basic artificial intelligence (AI) tools.Learning how to use AI tools opened a new perspective for her on how technology can support creativity, research, and productivity. It helped her understand how emerging technologies can be used to solve problems and improve efficiency in digital work.One moment that stood out during her learning journey was when she successfully used Microsoft Word and Excel independently. What once seemed difficult suddenly became manageable. That experience boosted her confidence and helped her realize that she could learn, adapt, and grow in the digital space.

Turning skills to opportunity

As her confidence and digital abilities grew, Zeinab began applying her skills beyond the classroom. She started taking on small digital gigs, including graphic design work, social media support, and content creation, gaining practical experience while building her professional portfolio. These opporThese skills also opened doors to real opportunities enabling her to secure gigs in digital marketing and graphic design, where she began applying her knowledge in practical, income-generating work. opportunities, even when occasional, allowed her to gain real-world exposure and strengthened her belief that digital skills can create meaningful economic opportunities. Her journey also inspired her to continue her education. Today, Zeinab is pursuing her university studies, further strengthening the foundation of the career path that began with digital literacy training.

Giving Back

Inspired by how digital skills transformed her own life, Zeinab felt a strong desire to give back to her community. This led to the creation of Digital Dada’s, an initiative she co-founded with fellow alumnae to support young mothers and women with limited access to digital opportunities. Through Digital Dada’s, she trains women in basic computer skills, digital communication, and practical digital tools that help them navigate the digital world and explore income-generating opportunities.She has also extended her impact by mentoring young women in Changamwe, a community with limited access to digital skills and opportunitiesequipping them with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the digital space. Many of the young mothers she works with face challenges such as limited access to technology, childcare responsibilities, and a lack of confidence in using digital tools. However, through encouragement, hands-on training, and continuous support, they gradually build their skills and confidence.

A Journey Still Unfolding

Looking back, Zeinab has grown from a young woman uncertain about her future into a confident learner, mentor, and changemaker in her community.Her story reflects the power of opportunity, mentorship, and digital skills in transforming lives. It also highlights the important role that mentorship plays in expanding access to technology for young women in coastal communities where such opportunities are often limited. As she continues her university education, builds her experience through digital gigs, and expands her impact through Digital Dada’s, Zeinab remains committed to learning, growing, and helping others unlock their potential through technology.