Nelly Cheboi Named 2022 CNN Hero of the Year for Transformative Impact in Kenya
Nelly Cheboi has been recognized as the 2022 CNN Hero of the Year for her groundbreaking work in providing computer access to schoolchildren in rural Kenya. Cheboi, who left a profitable software engineering career in Chicago to establish TechLit Africa, has made substantial strides in empowering thousands of Kenyan youth through technology.
Why It Matters
Cheboi’s initiatives offer hope and opportunity to children who otherwise might remain unaware of the digital skills that can enhance their education and future job prospects. Her work serves as a reminder of the potential for grassroots initiatives to make meaningful changes in underserved communities.
Key Developments
- Cheboi won the award following a public voting process, selecting her from the year’s top 10 CNN Heroes.
- TechLit Africa has supplied upcycled computers to rural Kenyan schools, affecting thousands of students.
- Cheboi received $100,000 to expand her nonprofit, along with additional grants and support from The Elevate Prize Foundation.
- The current scope of her organization encompasses 10 schools, with aspirations to partner with 100 more within the next year.
Full Report
A Journey from Poverty to Empowerment
Nelly Cheboi grew up in impoverished conditions in Mogotio, Kenya. Reflecting on her childhood, she stated, "I know the pain of poverty," and recounted nights spent hungry. Despite these challenges, she excelled academically and secured a full scholarship to Augustana College in Illinois in 2012.
Her pivotal moment came during her studies when she took a programming course. "When I discovered computer science, I just fell in love with it," Cheboi shared. She experienced the steep learning curve typical for many newcomers, needing extensive practice to master essential computer skills.
Founding TechLit Africa
After witnessing the excessive waste of usable technology in the U.S., Cheboi began bringing back computers to Kenya, initially in her own luggage. In 2019, she co-founded TechLit Africa with another software engineer, pooling their resources to create a nonprofit that refurbishes and distributes computers to local schools.
The organization not only provides hardware but also offers classes that equip children with critical skills in coding, graphic design, and personal branding. "We are opening up the world to them," Cheboi noted, emphasizing the importance of education in shaping young people’s futures.
Awards and Recognition
During the awards gala, Cheboi attended with her mother, who was instrumental in her education. The acceptance speech was marked by a musical performance that resonated with her upbringing. In addition to the cash award, Cheboi’s nonprofit will receive substantial support through The Elevate Prize Foundation.
Context & Previous Events
This recognition comes during the 16th Annual “CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute,” which celebrated other notable individuals making significant contributions to society. Among those honored were two young activists, Ruby Chitsey and Sri Nihal Tammana, who led their own impactful initiatives. The event highlighted the growing trend of grassroots movements aiming to tackle pressing social issues on local and global levels.
Cheboi’s story is one of resilience and inspiration, underscoring how individual initiative can lead to profound societal change. As she continues to expand her nonprofit, her journey is expected to impact even more lives in the coming years.
