Innovate Now’s Post

2024: The year I learned that true innovation starts with listening. When we first started WeLove, I thought machine learning algorithms would be our greatest asset. But this year taught me something profound: our most powerful tool is empathy. Every line of code, every AI model we developed was guided by the stories of families and individuals we aim to support. Our journey wasn't just about building technology—it was about understanding the unspoken challenges faced by children with ASD and individuals with paraplegic needs. Those quiet moments of user testing, hearing parents describe their daily struggles, reshaped everything we thought we knew about assistive technology. Key milestones that redefined our path: • Securing third place in the Huawei AI Hackathon, proving that African innovators can develop world-class solutions tailored to our communities' specific needs. Hon. John Kiarie's challenge rang in our ears: "Will Africa sleep yet again through this 4th industrial revolution?" Not on our watch. • Our groundbreaking user testing with Kilimanjaro Blind Trust Africa, where we learned that true product development happens through genuine collaboration. "Your input is instrumental in shaping our product," became more than a statement—it became our core philosophy. • Representing Kenya's vibrant innovation ecosystem at Kenya Innovation Week, witnessing firsthand how "transformative ideas" aren't just buzzwords, but real pathways to solving complex societal challenges. Meanwhile, personally completing my Bachelor's degree while building WeLove taught me that resilience isn't about individual achievements, but about staying committed to a vision larger than yourself. Our acceptance into the Innovate Now Accelerator Program wasn't just a professional milestone—it was validation that inclusive technology can emerge from unexpected places. That technology can be a bridge, not just a tool. Looking ahead to 2025, our mission remains crystal clear: continue building solutions that don't just assist, but truly empower. To every parent, caregiver, and individual who shared their story with us this year—you are the true innovators. Our work continues. #AssistiveTech #AIforGood #KenyaInnovation #Inclusivity #Innovation #LinkedInRewind #Coauthor #2024wrapped