By  Archie Forpoh

My journey as a changemaker began with a personal challenge I faced during my high school years. I never had access to practical computer science training. While I sat through theoretical lessons, my hands itched to type on a keyboard and navigate software. This experience resonated with countless young people across Liberia, where limited access to technology continues to hinder educational and professional development.

Determined to address this gap, I founded Innoignite, a non-profit organization committed to advancing STEM education in underserved communities. My vision is to empower young people, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, by equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to excel in a rapidly evolving world.

We have launched impactful initiatives that tackle this challenge head-on. One of our flagship programs, the Tech for Liberia Initiative, focuses on setting up computer labs in high schools, starting with Matilda Newport Junior High School. This project equips students and teachers with access to computers, hands-on training, and critical digital skills such as coding, entrepreneurship, and computer literacy. To date, we’ve impacted over 1,000 students and teachers, providing them with the resources to dream bigger and compete globally. For many of them, the barriers I faced are all too familiar. But through our programs, I see hope every day.

One story that stands out is that of Fatima Jalloh, a female high school student who initially had no experience with computers. Through our program, she learned how to code and developed an app to help her peers access educational resources online. Today, she is pursuing her dreams of becoming a software engineer and creating solutions to improve Liberia’s education system.

In addition to the Tech for Liberia Initiative, the Professional Skills Training Program focuses on equipping participants with 21st-century STEM skills that are in high demand in today’s workforce. Through interactive workshops and hands-on projects, participants not only learn technical skills but also develop problem-solving abilities, creativity, and teamwork.

This program is transforming lives by preparing young Liberians for competitive job markets while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Jedidiah D. Broderick, one of our trainees, leveraged his newly acquired skills in AutoCAD to secure a job at an engineering firm, where he now works on designing structures that address local housing challenges. Stories like Jedidiah’s highlight the power of skill-building to create opportunities and drive sustainable development.

In addition to leading Innoignite, I’ve partnered with organizations like Orange Digital Center, YOCEL, TME Education, Next Einstein Forum, Scratch Foundation, and Technovation Girls, working to bring STEM resources and inspiration to more young people. Together, we’ve impacted over 10,000 youth, opening doors that were once closed to them.

My vision is to scale these efforts nationally, ensuring that every young person in Liberia has the opportunity to engage with technology and innovation. By enhancing STEM literacy and creating pathways for talent development, this journey, which started with my own frustration, is growing into a movement of empowerment and change. It is my hope that the seeds we are planting today will grow into a brighter, more innovative future for Liberia.