Paradigm Initiative has been a driving force for positive change in African communities since 2007. With our footprint in six African Countries (Cameroon, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, Zambia and Zimbabwe), and a vision to impact the global majority, the organisation has established itself as a leading non-profit organisation in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for Development, digital rights and digital inclusion.Our journey has been punctuated by building trust, experience and a strong organisational culture that empowers youth to thrive in the digital age.

Empowering African Youth

Over the years, Paradigm Initiative has impacted the lives of young individuals, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the digital world successfully. The organisation’s programs have empowered young individuals to secure better livelihoods and brighter futures. This we have achieved through ICT capacity-building programs and global, regional and national policy-influencing Initiatives.   

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, Paradigm Initiative emerges as a catalyst for change, imprinting a lasting influence on diverse participants across its multifaceted programs. We have impacted the livelihoods of more than 150,000 under-served African youth through digital opportunities and protection of their rights online.

Bridging the Digital Gender Divide

In addition to its primary programs, PIN recognises the importance of gender equality and the need to bridge the digital gender divide. We run a digital readiness workshop tailored specifically for girls, in the process equipping them with the skills and confidence to excel in the digital space. We also do a women rights online advocacy program to bring attention to challenges that women face online and the obstacles to participation of women in the digital sphere. By supporting these initiatives, you are helping to bridge the gender gap in technology and creating a more inclusive and diverse tech community.

Digital Rights Advocacy

It is important to note that the digital age comes with its unique challenges, and Paradigm Initiative understands the importance of safeguarding digital rights. In order to protect these rights, PIN has created several online platforms that serve as educational resources and safe spaces for reporting digital rights violations. These mediums, which are in the form of reports, short films, and educational online platforms, include Ayeta, Londa, and Ripoti

As PIN continues to make a lasting impact, support from organisations and individuals remains critical, as contributing to these programs is an investment in the future of African youth and the protection of their rights online. This support further goes into efforts aimed at bridging the digital divide and gender gaps in technology while advocating for digital rights and policy change, in the process contributing towards a rights-respecting continent.

Coalition Building 

Paradigm Initiative realises the power of movements in responding to digital rights threats and serves as the secretariat for the  Net Rights Coalition (NRC). The Net Rights Coalition is a pan-African coalition for digital rights and Internet freedom activists who advocate for the protection of digital rights in Africa through press statements, open letters, policy briefs, policy dialogues and responses that best address emerging digital rights challenges. The Coalition has over 300 active subscribers who are civil society actors, technologists, researchers and media practitioners who are digital rights advocates across the African Continent. Interested digital rights actors request to join the Coalition by sending an email to admin.netrights@paradigmhq.org. Supporting the Coalition, will enable shared learning, the hosting of convenings and joint advocacy actions pushing back against digital rights violations.

Fellowships 

Through the Digital Rights and Inclusion Learning Lab Fellowship (DRILL), Paradigm Initiative hosts innovative learning around digital rights and inclusion in Africa for early-career individuals with experience as technology or social innovators, researchers, policy experts, and/or entrepreneurs. DRILL Fellows develop research on digital rights and inclusion and conduct campaigns on emerging issues. PIN also implements the Digital Rights and Inclusion Media Fellowship, where it partners with academic institutions and key digital rights experts to deliver capacity-building training sessions to early career media practitioners and media students. DRIMF exposes relevant fellows of the program to digital rights and inclusion, enhancing their ability to report and respond to any violations that may arise.  Supporting DRIMF is increasing the capacity of the media to address challenges in the digital rights ecosystem.

Here is how you can support the organisation’s mission:

Donate: Your financial support will fund PIN’s programs, projects and initiatives. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, can make a substantial impact.

Spread the Word: Share the organisation’s story and mission with your friends, family, partners and on social media. The more people know about PIN, the greater the impact it can have.

Advocate: Become an advocate for digital rights in your community. Educate others about the importance of digital rights and the work PIN is doing to protect them.

Together, we can empower the continent’s youth, bridge the digital divide and protect their digital rights. Your support for Paradigm Initiative is therefore an investment in a brighter, more inclusive future for the continent and its people.

We therefore request you to make a difference today by supporting us in our mission to create positive change.