Upili Program

Counselors with Disabilities
empowering
Students with Disabilities

[Next Step Foundation @NextStepFdn]

Many African sign languages remain underrepresented in the datasets used to develop AI and digital accessibility technologies, limiting opportunities for inclusion, accessibility, and innovation.

[Next Step Foundation @NextStepFdn]

In 2025, we advanced our mission to economically empower Persons with Disabilities, women and young people in Africa. We expanded our training initiatives addressing the digital divide with purpose.

Dive into our report! https://t.co/A3W0jNrbWD

#AnnualReport2025 #InclusiveTech

[Next Step Foundation @NextStepFdn]

We invites qualified and reputable suppliers to submit their applications for Pre-qualification for the Supply and Delivery of Laptop Computers, Tablets, and MiFis.

📄 Reference: UO/ICT/LAPTOPS/01/2026
🗓  Deadline for Submission: March 9th, 2026

https://t.co/LWqjUehui1

[Next Step Foundation @NextStepFdn]

By training teachers as psychological first responders & strengthening student confidence through group counselling, peer support & safe emotional spaces, our Upili program aims to create safer, more stable & more inclusive schools for all. #UpiliProgram

https://t.co/LpnAU2SS3e

[Next Step Foundation @NextStepFdn]

Across East Africa, a shortage of trained counselors is colliding with rising rates of depression and anxiety. Can AI help and more importantly, can it do so responsibly?

📅 Date & Time: October 29, 2025, at 4:00 PM EAT
➡️ Register here: https://t.co/5r2l1R12ss

[carla birnberg @carla_birnberg]

https://t.co/TZicYwx8Fj?

[Next Step Foundation @NextStepFdn]

PANELIST SPOTLIGHT: Lara Gregorio, LCSW will join our upcoming webinar on "Empowering Youth Mental Health: From Research to Impact."

🗓 Aug 20 | 📷 6 PM EAT

Register now: https://t.co/XB9yrPlgAz

#NextStepFoundation #Webinar

[Next Step Foundation @NextStepFdn]

PANELIST SPOTLIGHT:

Tom Osborn will join our upcoming webinar on "Empowering Youth Mental Health: From Research to Impact."

🗓 Aug 20 | 📷 6 PM EAT

https://t.co/XB9yrPlgAz

#NextStepFoundation #Webinar

[carla birnberg @carla_birnberg]

Empowering Youth Mental Health: From Research to Impact with @NextStepFdn & @UpiliProgram
We will explore how to design evidence-based, community-rooted mental health programs, ensuring Youth with Disabilities aren’t left behind.
Register here: 
https://t.co/TYYqxaitKE

[Next Step Foundation @NextStepFdn]

In our recent webinar, Jonathan J Kaufman reminded us that technology does not always grasp the emotional nuances humans do, the silences, the tension, the unspoken.

Watch the full conversation on how inclusive tech is reshaping mental health access. https://t.co/gW0EcXoGz1

[Next Step Foundation @NextStepFdn]

In our recent webinar, Dr. Okello reminded us that as we harness AI and digital tools in mental health, we must do so responsibly especially in contexts like Africa, where care is often communal.

Watch the full conversation 👉 https://t.co/gW0EcXoGz1

[Next Step Foundation @NextStepFdn]

PANELIST SPOTLIGHT: Carla Birnberg & Mariam Ndegwa will join our upcoming webinar and will share reflections on how #AI can and must be designed to support the mental health of youth with disabilities.

Register now, free and open to all: https://t.co/f7HkEwZcxU #AIforGood

[Next Step Foundation @NextStepFdn]

PANELIST SPOTLIGHT: Dr. David Okello will join our upcoming webinar and will share reflections on how #AI can and must be designed to support the mental health of youth with disabilities.

Register now, free and open to all: https://t.co/f7HkEwZcxU

#AIforGood #MentalHealth

[Next Step Foundation @NextStepFdn]

🌍 Meet TUMAINI — our AI chatbot offering mental health & digital skills support to Youth with Disabilities in Kenya.

We spoke to developer Deborah Adetunji on building it with empathy, memory & inclusion.

Read the interview: https://t.co/RTvGgpsSzP

[Next Step Foundation @NextStepFdn]

Exciting News! We’ve found our new tech partner thanks to @TechToTheRescue Foundation! 26bitz is joining us pro-bono to expand TUMAINI, our mental health support platform for Youth with Disabilities.

#TechForGood #PartnershipForImpact #TechToTheRescue #NextStepFoundation #26bitz

[Upili Program @UpiliProgram]

Join Allan and Carla as they share practical insights, lived experiences, and bold visions for building supportive, inclusive environments that work for everyone.

🗓️ Date: Monday, April 28, 2025
⌚ Time: 2:30 – 3:30 PM EAT
Register, free and open to all: https://t.co/Cyvg2ZKmS2

[Upili Program @UpiliProgram]

A victory for #disability rights in Kenya.

The #Kenya National Assembly recently passed the Persons with Disabilities Bill supported by @CrystalAsige a tireless advocate for #inclusion and #Accessibility

Read more:

https://t.co/YBySg9rUX5

[Upili Program @UpiliProgram]

🔸 Celebrating #InternationalMensDay2024: Highlighting Positive Male Role Models
🔸Today, Upili is honored to spotlight Joseph Etyang - a remarkable leader transforming lives of Men with #Disabilities in Kenya. Learn more about Joseph here:https://t.co/YYdjgTPe9H

#MensHealth

[Upili Program @UpiliProgram]

On this #WorldMentalHealthDay learn how the Upili program applies Gordon Allport's Contact Theory to impact mental health for Youth with Disabilities and break barriers.

Read more: https://t.co/Eo0YRuNE0G

#MentalHealth
#Kenya

[Upili Program @UpiliProgram]

During International Week of #Deaf People, 23-29 September, Upili is proud to highlight the work of our skilled counselors.
Joseph Etyang, counselor and #disability specialist gives insights on challenges faced by deaf students

Read more here: https://t.co/3vVMt8fYk7