Empowering Persons with Disabilities through inclusive employment, AI innovation

We are Next Step Foundation

At NSF, we are changing narratives in Africa by empowering Persons with Disabilities, Women, and Youth through innovative employment initiatives.

We believe that meaningful work is a powerful catalyst for reducing poverty and uplifting these marginalized groups, along with their families and communities.

Our Vision, Mission & Core Values Our Team Our Impact

Did you Know…

Africa is grappling with a dual crisis:
an escalating youth unemployment rate and the widespread marginalization of Persons with Disabilities.

236M

Young people will lack an economic stake in society, exacerbating poverty and social instability by 2025.

11M

Number of young Africans enter a labour market that offers only
3.1 million jobs, leaving millions without economic opportunities.

67%

Percentage of Persons with Disabilities live in poverty, facing severe barriers to education, skills training, and employment.

Our Programs

Digital Skilling

Empowering PWD and youth from underserved communities; equipping with cutting-edge digital skills for thriving in the 4th Industrial Revolution.

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AI for Social Good

Leveraging the power of Artificial Intelligence and digital technology to create impactful solutions for the world’s most pressing social challenges.

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Disability Inclusion in the Workplace

To support employers adopt inclusive workplaces, hire and retention of young people with disabilities: Providing reasonable accommodations that enable full participation.

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Upili Mental Health

We address mental health challenges, boost self-confidence, enhance academic performance and foster participants with self-advocacy skills.

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What others say about us

“Hearing-impaired students face stigma and trauma, making counseling—from a Kenya Sign Language-fluent professional: Upili program is essential for their emotional well-being. ”

Student

Kambui School for the Deaf

“Upili program has help students with dicipline around academic goals. We observed a noticable improvement in Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education results after the program.”

George Wairobi

Deputy Principal

“Before Upili I wasn’t confident about myself. I have learned to recognize my self-worth, and increase my confidence. Thanks to Upili I have the tools to feel better every day. ”