An Interview With Monica Sanders
That failure is a steppingstone to success; that failure is the common denominator for success. That my failure is not a reflection of my worth but an opportunity for growth and learning. This perspective has allowed me to learn from my mistakes, adapt my approach, and ultimately achieve better outcomes. Embracing failure as a valuable teacher has helped me navigate challenges and persevere in our mission to bridge the digital divide.
Digital inequality reinforces existing social disparities, demanding considerable efforts to acknowledge and address this pressing issue. In this interview series, we are talking to business leaders, policymakers, think tanks and experts on this topic to share their insights and stories about “How Companies and Policymakers Are Taking Action and Can Further Contribute to Closing the Digital Divide.” As part of this series, I had the pleasure to interview Michael Odongo.
Michael is the Founder and CEO of Angaza Center, a nonprofit organization launched in 2022 whose mission is to provide students in rural African secondary schools with communication technology (ICT) literacy necessary for economic and social prosperity. He leads a passionate team in developing innovative programs and initiatives that empower students and help bridge the digital divide.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to ‘get to know you’. Can you tell us a bit about how you grew up?
I grew up in the village of Ndori, located in a rural community in western Kenya, not too far from the shore of Lake Victoria. Some would describe my circumstances at the time as riddled with poverty, but I don’t. Reason: I was surrounded by love from my parents, seven siblings, and my grandmother. My locale was full of fresh air in a tropical greenery with lots of tropical fruits.
Now that I have a better understanding of poverty, I would say that I didn’t experience poverty of spirit, which I find to be the worst form of poverty. In spite of occasional hunger from a lack of staple food, I felt safe, loved, and happy. That’s how I would describe my childhood and time in primary (elementary school).
During my secondary schooling in rural schools, I encountered the challenges of lacking resources, which became more apparent at that stage. In most countries outside of the United States, primary education is free, but secondary education is not. My family couldn’t afford to pay for secondary education for several children at a time, so there were several school terms and years when I wasn’t able to attend school due to the inability to pay required fees. I found myself in and out of school, moving between different rural secondary schools. By the end of my fourth year in secondary school, I had only spent a net total of two and a half years actually in school.
In the late ’80s when I was in secondary school, the lacking in educational resources was not related to technology but rather the absence of science labs for practical learning. There was also a general lack of good books and teaching resources to level the playing field for students in rural secondary schools, making it challenging to compete fairly with students in non-rural schools.
Fast forward to the 21st century, the absence of educational resources in rural schools is evident in digital literacy. Technology literacy is no longer a luxury but a necessity for every student, regardless of economic or social circumstances. The lack of digital literacy carries more dire implications than the absence of STEM labs I experienced while growing up in rural Africa because the world now expects every individual to have basic digital literacy to communicate, collaborate, and be productive.
My secondary schooling experience has motivated me to work towards bridging the digital divide and ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities to thrive in the digital age.
Is there a particular book that made a significant impact on you? Can you share a story or explain why it resonated with you so much?
Godin’s book titled “The Dip” has had a significant impact on me. It explores the concept of knowing when to persevere and when to quit. In the book, Godin explains that every journey encounters a “dip,” a challenging period that separates those who succeed from those who don’t. Reading this book was a turning point for me because it helped me understand the importance of persistence and knowing when to push through difficulties or make strategic changes.
One particular story that resonated with me is about a musician who spent years honing his craft and facing numerous rejections. Despite the challenges, he persevered through the dip, constantly refining his skills and pursuing his passion. Eventually, he achieved success and became a renowned artist. This story reminded me of the importance of staying committed to my goals and embracing the inevitable obstacles that come with any worthwhile pursuit.
“The Dip” taught me that success often requires resilience, determination, and the ability to navigate through tough times. It has inspired me to stay focused on my mission, even when faced with setbacks or doubts. This book has become a guiding principle in both my personal and professional life, reminding me to persevere through the dip and ultimately achieve meaningful and impactful outcomes.
Do you have a favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Do you have a story about how that was relevant in your life or your work?
One of my favorite life lesson quotes is: “We are better at seeing which tools aren’t in our toolbox than figuring out which ones we have that other people are missing. We focus so much on trying to lessen our weaknesses that we fail to identify the strengths that set us apart.”
This quote resonates deeply with me because it highlights the tendency to overlook our own unique strengths while fixating on our weaknesses. It is a reminder that each individual possesses a set of distinctive qualities and abilities that can make a significant impact in the world.
In my own journey, I have encountered moments when I doubted my capabilities or felt the pressure to conform to certain expectations. However, I have come to realize the importance of embracing and harnessing my strengths. By recognizing my unique skills and perspectives, I have been able to contribute in ways that others may not be able to.
By appreciating the strengths that set us apart, we were able to complement each other’s abilities and create a synergistic team dynamic. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing and valuing the unique talents that each individual brings to the table.
This quote serves as a constant reminder for me to embrace my strengths, celebrate the strengths of others, and work collaboratively to achieve shared goals. It encourages me to shift my focus from fixing weaknesses to leveraging the inherent abilities that differentiate me and contribute to the collective success of the team or organization.
Ok, thank you. Now let’s move to the main focus of our interview. How would you define the Digital Divide? Can you explain or give an example?
It is the gap or disparity in access to and utilization of digital technologies, particularly internet connectivity and digital literacy skills. It is the unequal distribution of technology resources and opportunities among different individuals, communities, and regions, resulting in a division between those who have access to digital tools and knowledge and those who do not.
In today’s interconnected world, access to digital technologies and the internet has become increasingly crucial for various aspects of life, such as education, employment, healthcare, and social participation. However, the Digital Divide highlights the inequities that exist, preventing certain groups from fully participating in the digital age.
An example of the Digital Divide can be observed in rural communities in Africa, where access to technology and digital resources is limited. Many students in these areas do not have computers or reliable internet access, hindering their ability to acquire digital literacy skills and access educational resources available online. This lack of access to digital tools and knowledge puts them at a disadvantage compared to their counterparts in urban areas or more privileged communities.
Digital Divide extends beyond mere access to technology. It encompasses factors such as affordability, digital skills training, and inclusive design. It is not just about having devices and internet connectivity but also about the ability to utilize them effectively and meaningfully.
Bridging the Digital Divide is crucial to ensure equal opportunities and empowerment for all individuals. By addressing the barriers that hinder access and promoting digital literacy initiatives, we can empower marginalized communities and provide them with the tools and skills necessary to thrive in the digital era. Closing the Digital Divide is not only a matter of social justice but also a catalyst for economic growth, educational advancement, and social inclusion.
At Angaza Center, we are committed to closing the Digital Divide by empowering students in rural African secondary schools with information and communication technology (ICT) literacy. We provide access to devices, deliver comprehensive training programs, and support the integration of digital technologies into the curriculum. Through these efforts, we aim to bridge the gap and ensure that every student, regardless of their economic or social circumstances, has the opportunity to develop the digital skills needed to succeed in the 21st century.
Can you tell our readers a bit about your experience working with initiatives to close the digital divide? Can you share a story with us?
Working with initiatives to close the digital divide has been a transformative and fulfilling experience. An example I would share is our collaboration with a rural girls’ secondary school in Kenya called Miruriiri Girls Secondary School. This school, like all the rural schools we serve, lacked access to computers and digital resources, leaving their students at a significant disadvantage compared to their peers in relatively more privileged schools. After onboarding Miruriiri Girls Secondary School as a Member School, we kicked off a comprehensive program starting with computer device donations, trained a group of dedicated teachers who became champions of digital literacy, and launched the program. The immediate impact of our programming was evident from the fact that teachers were now able to enrich learning by using the devices to teach different subjects. Witnessing this instant impact has been truly inspiring.
I vividly remember Sonia, a second-year student at the school, who had never used a computer before. It has been incredible to see her enthusiasm around technology develop into rapid progress as she navigated the digital world, exploring educational resources, collaborating with classmates, and unleashing her creativity through digital projects. Today, Sonia is the leader of the ICT program at the school, guiding and inspiring her fellow students. Her story exemplifies the transformative power of our initiatives. Through our programs, we have witnessed students embracing technology, gaining confidence, and unlocking new opportunities. They have discovered the power of technology in expanding their knowledge through Google resources, connecting with others globally, and envisioning brighter futures for themselves.
Experiences like Sonia’s reinforce the importance of holistic approaches in closing the digital divide. It’s not just about providing devices; it’s about equipping individuals with the skills, knowledge, and support systems to thrive in the digital age. By working closely with schools, teachers, and the local community, we ensure that our initiatives have a sustainable and lasting impact.
Closing the digital divide is an ongoing journey, and we are committed to expanding our reach to more schools and communities across Africa. Through collaboration with like- minded organizations, policymakers, and stakeholders, we can collectively create change and empower individuals with the tools they need to succeed in the digital world.
The experiences and stories we encounter along this journey reaffirm our belief that bridging the digital divide is not just a matter of technology; it is also a matter of unlocking human potential, fostering equal opportunities, and creating a more inclusive and connected society.
This may be obvious to you, but it will be helpful to spell this out. Can you articulate to our readers a few reasons why it is so important to create change in this area?
Creating change in the area of bridging the digital divide is of utmost importance for several reasons. Firstly, digital literacy has become an essential skill in today’s interconnected world. Access to technology and digital resources empowers individuals to communicate, collaborate, and access information, opening up a world of opportunities for personal and professional growth. By bridging the digital divide, we can ensure that everyone, regardless of their economic or social circumstances, has equal access to these opportunities.
It is also crucial for promoting social and economic equality. In the 21st century, individuals and communities without access to technology are left behind in an increasingly digital society. This perpetuates existing disparities and widens the gap between the haves and have-nots. By creating change and providing equal access to technology and digital resources, we can level the playing field and empower marginalized communities to thrive in the digital age.
Addressing the digital divide is essential for fostering innovation and driving economic growth. In an increasingly technology-driven world, the demand for skilled ICT professionals is growing rapidly. By closing the digital divide and equipping individuals with digital skills, we can cultivate a diverse pool of talent, drive entrepreneurship, and foster innovation within communities. This, in turn, leads to economic development, job creation, and sustainable growth.
By focusing on building digital literacy and providing equal access to technology, we at Angaza Center are not only preparing individuals for the present but also equipping them with the skills needed for the future. We believe that by creating change in this area, we can transform lives, uplift communities, and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable world. By working together with partner school districts, partner corporations and individuals, and prioritizing efforts to bridge the digital divide, we are able to create a future where everyone ample opportunity to succeed and thrive in the digital age.
What specific actions has your company or organization taken to address the digital divide, and how do you ensure that your efforts are making a positive impact in the communities you serve?
We have taken specific actions to address the digital divide and ensure our efforts make a positive impact in the communities we serve. Our approach is comprehensive and multifaceted, focusing on three key areas: access, education, and empowerment.
Firstly, in terms of access, we provide computer devices to rural secondary schools, ensuring that students have the necessary tools to engage with technology. We collaborate with various partners, including school districts, colleges, universities, and corporations, to secure donations of computer devices. These devices are then prepared and distributed to member schools, allowing students to access digital resources and develop essential digital skills.
Our program prioritizes education by offering ICT training and digital literacy programs to both teachers and students. We understand that technology is only effective when individuals know how to use it. Our team of trainers works closely with teachers, providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to integrate technology into their teaching practices. By empowering teachers in a train-the-trainer model, we ensure that they can effectively guide and support students in a way that creates a sustainable digital learning journey.
We have also developed a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on 21st-century skills and digital literacy. This curriculum is designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and competencies to navigate the digital world, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. We regularly assess the impact of our programs through monitoring and evaluation, ensuring that our efforts align with our mission and deliver meaningful outcomes.
Lastly, our approach is centered around empowerment. We believe in the power of community engagement and collaboration. We work closely with local communities, leveraging their strengths, knowledge, and resources to drive sustainable change. By fostering partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and stakeholders, we create a supportive ecosystem that nurtures digital literacy and provides ongoing support for students and teachers.
These actions help us ensure that our efforts are focused, impactful, and sustainable. We constantly evaluate and adapt our programs to meet the evolving needs of the communities we serve. Through regular communication and feedback loops, we maintain strong relationships with our member schools, ensuring that our initiatives align with their goals and aspirations.
What are some of the challenges that individuals or communities face when trying to bridge the digital divide?
The challenges are many, and vary depending on factors such as location, socioeconomic status, and infrastructure limitations. However, there are common obstacles that many encounter:
Access to Technology: One of the primary challenges is the lack of access to technology infrastructure, such as reliable internet connectivity and electricity. In many rural areas, the necessary infrastructure is limited or nonexistent, making it difficult for individuals and communities to access digital resources and participate fully in the digital world.
Affordability: Even if technology infrastructure is available, the cost of devices and internet services can be a significant barrier for individuals and families with limited financial means. Many individuals simply cannot afford to purchase computers or smartphones, and the ongoing costs of internet connectivity can be prohibitive.
Digital Literacy and Skills Gap: Another challenge is the lack of digital literacy and skills among individuals. Many people, especially in underserved communities, have limited knowledge and experience in using digital technologies effectively. This skills gap prevents them from fully utilizing the potential of technology for education, employment, and social participation.
Gender Inequality: Gender inequality is another challenge that affects the digital divide. Women and girls often face additional barriers and cultural norms that restrict their access to and use of technology. This disparity further exacerbates the digital divide and limits opportunities for female empowerment and socioeconomic advancement.
Content Relevance and Localization: Ensuring that digital content is relevant and localized to specific communities and cultures is crucial. Many existing digital resources and educational materials may not be tailored to the specific needs and contexts of underserved communities. Providing localized content that reflects the cultural, linguistic, and educational backgrounds of individuals is essential for effective digital inclusion.
To bridge these challenges and bridge the digital divide, concerted efforts are required from multiple stakeholders. Governments, other non-profits, technology companies, and communities must collaborate to address these barriers systematically. By working together, we can leverage the strengths and resources of each stakeholder to develop comprehensive solutions that address the multifaceted challenges of the digital divide.
It’s important to recognize that bridging the digital divide is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It requires tailoring interventions to specific contexts and continuously adapting to the evolving needs and dynamics of communities.
What role do you see technology companies playing in closing the digital divide, and what steps can they take to ensure that their products and services are accessible to all?
Here are some key steps that technology companies can take to ensure their products and services are accessible to all and contribute to bridging the digital divide:
Technology companies should prioritize the development of affordable and accessible devices and services. This includes creating devices with simplified interfaces, multilingual support, and compatibility with low-bandwidth internet connections. By making technology more affordable and accessible, companies can empower individuals in underserved communities to access and benefit from digital resources.
Collaboration with non-profits, governments, and local communities is vital for technology companies to understand the unique challenges and needs of underserved populations. By partnering with these stakeholders, companies can co-create solutions that are tailored to specific contexts and ensure their products and services are relevant and effective in bridging the digital divide.
Technology companies can contribute to closing the digital divide by investing in digital skills training programs. This includes providing resources, tools, and training opportunities to help individuals develop the necessary skills to navigate the digital world effectively.
Technology companies should prioritize the development of localized content and applications that cater to the specific needs and preferences of different communities. That way, technology companies can ensure that their products and services are relevant and valuable to individuals in underserved areas.
Embracing corporate social responsibility initiatives can further contribute to closing the digital divide. Technology companies can allocate resources, expertise, and funding towards initiatives that promote digital inclusion, such as providing technology donations to schools, supporting community training programs, and offering grants to nonprofit organizations working in this space.
Because of investment coming from the federal government, we have funding for great access to infrastructure and digital skills training. In your view, what other policy changes are needed to address the digital divide? How can companies and policymakers work together to implement these changes?
Addressing digital divide comprehensively requires not only access to infrastructure and digital skills training but also policy changes that promote digital inclusion. While investment in infrastructure and skills training is crucial, there are other policy changes that can further bridge the digital divide; namely:
- Governments and policymakers should prioritize policies that aim to provide universal internet access, particularly in underserved areas. This includes investing in broadband infrastructure, expanding connectivity in rural and remote regions, and promoting initiatives that make internet access affordable and accessible to all. This is easier said than done in developing economies.
- Implementing digital literacy programs in schools and communities can equip individuals with the necessary skills to navigate the digital world effectively. Governments can collaborate with educational institutions and organizations to develop and implement curriculum that focuses on digital literacy, ensuring that individuals are prepared to participate in the digital economy.
- Establishing clear regulatory frameworks that promote competition, innovation, and affordability in the telecommunications sector can contribute to closing the digital divide. Governments can create an enabling environment that encourages private sector investment, incentivizes companies to expand network coverage in underserved areas, and ensures fair pricing for internet services.
- Collaboration between governments, private sector companies, and nonprofit organizations is vital in addressing the digital divide. Governments can work with technology companies, telecommunications providers, and civil society organizations to develop joint initiatives that prioritize digital inclusion, share resources, and leverage each other’s expertise to reach underserved communities.
- Governments can allocate funding specifically for digital inclusion initiatives, including programs that provide subsidies for internet access and devices to low- income households, support digital skills training initiatives, and promote innovative solutions for digital inclusion.
We are already in Web3.0. What should we be doing as leaders to ensure the next iteration(s) of the Web are green, accessible and beneficial to as many people as possible?
Here are some key actions that leaders can take to ensure the next iteration(s) of the web are green, accessible, and beneficial to as many people as possible:
- Leaders should advocate for the adoption of sustainable technologies in web infrastructure and services.
- Accessibility should be a core consideration in the design and development of web technologies. Leaders can prioritize inclusive design principles, ensuring that digital platforms are accessible to people with disabilities and diverse needs.
- Enhancing digital literacy among individuals is essential to maximize the benefits of the web. Leaders can support initiatives that provide digital skills training and education, particularly to marginalized communities and underserved populations.
- Leaders should prioritize data privacy and security in the development of web technologies. This includes advocating for robust data protection regulations, promoting ethical data practices, and ensuring transparency in data collection and usage, and building trust in the digital ecosystem.
- Collaboration between different stakeholders, including technology companies, policymakers, nonprofits, and academia, is key in shaping the future of the web. Leaders should encourage open dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing to drive collective efforts in building a sustainable and inclusive web.
This is the signature question we ask in most of our interviews. What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why?
1 . That should embrace my unique background and experiences; embrace my upbringing and personal experiences as valuable assets. Growing up in a rural community in western Kenya, I initially felt disadvantaged compared to my peers in more privileged areas. However, I realized that my unique background gave me a different perspective and a unique appreciation for challenges faced by underserved communities. It taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of finding innovative solutions tailored to the specific needs of these communities.
2 . That failure is a steppingstone to success; that failure is the common denominator for success. That my failure is not a reflection of my worth but an opportunity for growth and learning. This perspective has allowed me to learn from my mistakes, adapt my approach, and ultimately achieve better outcomes. Embracing failure as a valuable teacher has helped me navigate challenges and persevere in our mission to bridge the digital divide.
3 . That no meaningful impact can be achieved alone. Collaboration is key to driving sustainable change. Building partnerships and working together with like-minded individuals, organizations, and communities amplifies our efforts and creates a larger collective impact. Through collaboration, we can leverage diverse perspectives, share resources, and develop innovative solutions to address complex challenges. Surrounding myself with a supportive network of collaborators has been instrumental in the success of our initiatives.
4 . That most human being are good people — I suspect 90% are. When we encounter, or interact with other people, or enter other people’s spaces, whether we work with them, we pray with them; whether they are neighbors, or we meet them in the elevator, on the train, we simply ought to enter those space with a genuine interest and curiosity to know them, and appreciate their experience — social, cultural, religious, or other.
What happens beyond that is an honest flow of good, enriching human instincts; instincts that will often turn into partnership, friendship, love, camaraderie, and trust.
All it takes is a genuine interest and curiosity about other people; especially those that seem different than what’s familiar to us.
5 . That in the face of challenges and setbacks, it’s crucial that I stay connected to my purpose and the impact I aim to create. Connecting with the stories and experiences of the individuals and communities we serve has been a constant reminder of the importance of our work. It fuels our passion, resilience, and determination to continue bridging the digital divide and creating a more inclusive and equitable future.
How can our readers follow you online?
Michael Odongo
LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maoodongo/
Angaza Center
FB: https://www.facebook.com/angazacenter/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/angazacenter/
LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angaza-center/
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!
About the Interviewer: Monica Sanders JD, LL.M, is the founder of “The Undivide Project”, an organization dedicated to creating climate resilience in underserved communities using good tech and the power of the Internet. She holds faculty roles at the Georgetown University Law Center and the Tulane University Disaster Resilience Leadership Academy. Professor Sanders also serves on several UN agency working groups. As an attorney, Monica has held senior roles in all three branches of government, private industry, and nonprofits. In her previous life, she was a journalist for seven years and the recipient of several awards, including an Emmy. Now the New Orleans native spends her time in solidarity with and championing change for those on the frontlines of climate change and digital divestment. Learn more about how to join her at: www.theundivideproject.org.
Michael Odongo Of Angaza Center On The Digital Divide and Why & How We Should Close It was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.