From Software Engineer to Champion of education: Nelly Cheboi Named CNN Hero of the Year
January 18, 2026 – Nelly Cheboi, a former software engineer, has been recognized for her remarkable work in bridging the digital divide in rural Kenya. Named CNN Hero of the Year, Cheboi’s dedication to providing access to technology and educational opportunities is transforming the lives of thousands of students. Her story is a powerful example of how one person’s vision and perseverance can create lasting change.
From Chicago to Rural Kenya: A Journey of Purpose
Cheboi’s path to becoming a CNN Hero is an inspiring one. After a prosperous career in software engineering in chicago,she made a pivotal decision in 2019: to return to her native Kenya and address the stark lack of access to technology in rural schools. Having experienced the transformative power of education herself,Cheboi recognized the potential for technology to unlock opportunities for Kenyan children.
“I know the pain of poverty,” Cheboi, 29, told CNN. “I never forgot what it was like with my stomach churning because of hunger at night.” This personal connection to the challenges faced by students in her community fueled her determination to make a difference.
The Birth of TechLit Africa: Bridging the Digital Divide
Recognizing the meaningful disparity in computer access, Cheboi co-founded TechLit Africa in 2019 with a fellow software engineer. The institution’s mission is simple yet profound: to equip students in rural Kenya with the technology and skills they need to succeed in the 21st century.
TechLit Africa operates on a sustainable model, collecting donated computers from companies, universities, and individuals.These devices are than carefully wiped,refurbished,and shipped to partner schools across Kenya. But the organization’s work doesn’t stop at hardware provision. They also provide comprehensive training for both students and teachers, ensuring that the technology is effectively integrated into the learning process. According to TechLit Africa, students recieve daily classes and frequent opportunities to learn from professionals, gaining skills in areas like music production, video editing, coding, and digital marketing.
A Ripple Effect of Opportunity
The impact of TechLit Africa is already being felt in communities across Kenya. Currently serving 10 schools, Cheboi aims to expand the reach of her organization to 100 more schools within the next year.the organization doesn’t merely provide technology; it cultivates a learning surroundings where students can explore their potential.
“My hope is that when the first TechLit kids graduate high school, they’re able to get a job online because they will know how to code, they will know how to do graphic design, they will know how to do marketing,” Cheboi explains. “the world is your oyster when you are educated.By bringing the resources, by bringing these skills, we are opening up the world to them.”
Recognition and Support: The CNN Heroes Platform
Cheboi’s dedication was nationally recognized when she was selected as the 2022 CNN Hero of the Year, chosen by online voters from among the Top 10 CNN Heroes. This prestigious award comes with a $100,000 prize to expand her work.
Beyond the financial support, being named a CNN Hero provides invaluable visibility and a platform to advocate for her cause. She also received a $300,000 grant as an Elevate Prize winner, along with an additional $200,000 in support for her nonprofit. This comprehensive package of resources will be instrumental in scaling TechLit Africa’s impact.
A Festivity of Inspiration
The CNN Heroes award ceremony, co-hosted by Anderson Cooper and Kelly Ripa, celebrated not only Cheboi’s remarkable achievements but also the work of other inspiring individuals dedicated to making a difference. The event featured performances and tributes to a range of heroes from across the globe, demonstrating the power of compassion and collective action.
looking Ahead: Expanding Access and Empowering Future Generations
Nelly Cheboi’s story is a testament to the power of individual initiative and the potential for technology to transform lives. Her work with TechLit Africa is not just about providing computers; it’s about fostering a future where all children, irrespective of their location or socioeconomic background, have the opportunity to thrive in a digital world.
As Cheboi continues to expand TechLit Africa’s reach, her vision serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that even the most ambitious goals can be achieved with dedication, innovation, and a commitment to serving others.
Key takeaways:
* The Digital Divide: Significant disparities in access to technology continue to exist globally,hindering educational and economic opportunities.
* The Power of Upcycling: techlit Africa demonstrates the potential of repurposing and donating used technology to create a positive impact.
* Holistic Education: Providing technology alone is insufficient; training and support for both students and teachers are crucial for successful implementation.
* Community-Driven solutions: Cheboi’s success is rooted in her deep understanding of the needs and challenges of her community.
