By Abdul Karim Sesay, CEO and Founder Of The Altruistech 

As a technology innovator growing up in an underserved community rich in natural resources but plagued by environmental and socio-economic issues, I developed a profound respect for nature and a determination to empower youth to lead solutions. My journey has been fueled by a passion for education, innovation, and a belief in the power of collective action to create lasting change. This inspired a purpose in me to give young innovators the power to realize their dreams and tell their stories in the process. Thus, I founded Altruistech Luminary Center with the goal of increasing access to STEM education and resources by 30 percent, prioritizing out-of-school children, promoting gender equality in STEM education, and fostering innovation among youth, all by 2030.

One of the defining moments in my life was experiencing the devastating 2017 landslide in Sierra Leone. This tragedy exposed the dire need for climate adaptation strategies and community resilience. It became clear to me that the solutions we needed would require not just policy but grassroots innovation. This realization motivated me to establish Altruistech, a platform to address these pressing issues by empowering youth with tools for education, leadership, and sustainability.

Our impact extends beyond technology. We engage youth using innovative methods like chess, Scrabble, and STEM activities to teach disaster preparedness and critical thinking. These interactive tools not only make learning fun but also instill essential skills that empower young people to take ownership of their communities’ challenges. To date, over 1,000 individuals have participated in our workshops, and we’ve seen a 30% increase in female participation in STEM—a significant step toward addressing gender inequality in education.

What drives me is the resilience I see in the young people we serve. Despite their limited resources, they approach every challenge with curiosity and determination. Witnessing some of our beneficiaries represent Sierra Leone at the World Robotics Competition in Greece, Switzerland, and Singapore reinforces my belief in the transformative power of STEM education and community engagement. It’s their stories that inspire me to push boundaries and seek innovative solutions.

My commitment to this work is deeply rooted in my belief that everyone, regardless of their background, deserves a chance to thrive. I envision a Sierra Leone where youth are not just passive recipients of aid but active architects of their future, equipped with the skills and confidence to lead change. I am committed to fostering leadership that is inclusive, innovative, and community-driven.