Nelly Cheboi

Nelly Cheboi is a Kenyan software engineer, social entrepreneur, and founder and CEO of TechLit Africa, a nonprofit organization focused on bridging the digital divide in rural Kenya. Cheboi attended Augustana College on a full scholarship and graduated with a bachelor's degree in applied mathematics and computer science. During her studies, she developed a strong interest in computer science and later discovered that many companies discard computers during upgrades. This realization led to the creation of a social impact initiative aimed at technology access and digital literacy in Africa.

Cheboi, alongside software engineer Tyler Cinnamon, co-founded TechLit Africa to redistribute recycled technology and establish school computer labs in Kenya and other regions. The organization works to expand digital opportunities for students in rural Africa by promoting digital skills, upcycling computers, setting up computer labs, and teaching computer classes in primary schools. The team refurbishes donated technology and installs custom operating systems designed to teach self-efficacy, troubleshooting, and internet skills. TechLit Africa offers programs ranging from remote classes led by NASA to coding and personal branding, targeting students ages four to twelve and preparing them for participation in the global digital economy.

Cheboi developed a plan to address intergenerational poverty by leveraging the digital economy to create more opportunities for rural Africans. With her savings, she purchased land in Kenya and began building a school, Zawadi, which became the foundation for TechLit Africa. Despite limited fundraising, Cheboi worked on campus during the summer to finance the construction of four classrooms and hire staff, demonstrating her commitment to educational access and technology empowerment.

Cheboi was named CNN Hero of the Year, recognized for her efforts in providing computer training for rural Kenyan schoolchildren through TechLit Africa. She was also included in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for social impact. These honors brought international attention to TechLit Africa and highlighted the importance of digital equity in rural Africa.

Cheboi returned to Augustana College as a commencement speaker, reflecting on her journey from a scholarship student to a leader in technology and digital inclusion. TechLit Africa, headquartered in Kenya at Zawadi Yetu, teaches students ages five to 14 basic computer skills and redistributes recycled technology to create computer labs in African schools. The organization has established 10 computer labs in rural Kenya, with ongoing efforts to expand its reach. Cheboi's experience, from growing up without computer access to becoming a recognized advocate for digital equity and education, positions her as a leading voice on technology access, poverty reduction, and the role of education in economic transformation.