The Great Disruption
May 22, 2024
Story
Seeking
Visibility

Daniel Kiprop Ruto
Kenya
Jul 21
Joined Jul 17, 2023

Photo Credit: Safina organization
Safina organization's Partnership with impactHER Foundation
For many African women entrepreneurs, the digital landscape might feel like a foreign country. Limited access to technology and a lack of digital literacy create a barrier to entry in this new frontier. This is a fight they can't afford to lose.
.Imagine a world where your customers order clothes through voice commands on their smart speakers, bypassing your physical store entirely. This isn't science fiction. This is the reality of the digital revolution, driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation. While technology offers exciting new possibilities, it also poses a significant threat: businesses that fail to adapt risk being left behind, even replaced.
Technology is evolving at breakneck speed, fundamentally changing how we live, work, and interact with the world. This "Great Disruption" isn't just about fancy robots (although they might play a part!). It's about a digital revolution that's reshaping everything from customer behavior to how businesses operate. The good news? This digital revolution opens doors to incredible possibilities. Imagine connecting with customers across the globe, managing your business from anywhere, and reaching new heights of efficiency. The bad news? It also presents a significant threat. Businesses that cling to outdated methods risk being left behind, their storefronts gathering dust in the digital age.
The Challenge for Women Entrepreneurs
For many African women entrepreneurs, the digital world can feel like a labyrinth. Limited access to technology and a lack of digital literacy create a barrier to entry. This is especially worrisome considering the vast potential technology holds for their businesses.
The Looming Gap:
Technology isn't just about shiny gadgets; it's about powerful tools. Online marketing platforms can target audiences with laser precision. Social media connects you directly with customers. E-commerce platforms open doors to global markets. Yet, without the skills to navigate these tools, businesses remain at a disadvantage.
Technology isn't the enemy. Think of it as a powerful new tool. Yes, there will be disruption – some jobs will evolve, some may disappear. However, this transformation also creates immense opportunity. New avenues for business growth, increased efficiency, and a global marketplace await those who embrace the digital world.
According to UN Women, empowering women in the economy is crucial to achieving global development goals like gender equality (Goal 5) and decent work for all (Goal 8). But for many African women entrepreneurs, the digital world feels like a foreign land. Limited access to technology and lack of digital literacy create a barrier to entry, leaving them behind in this rapidly evolving marketplace.
As social impact organizations, we have a responsibility to ensure everyone benefits from the digital revolution. This means actively promoting the representation of women and marginalized communities in this exciting new world. But the truth is, digital skills are no longer a luxury, they're essential business tools for success in today's online marketplace.
That's why I, as a tech advocate with Safina Empowerment, am passionate about using my skills to bridge the digital divide. We can't afford to leave women and girls behind! They deserve to be part of the incredible opportunities technology and AI offer. As an IT advocate with a passion for change, I’ve embarked on a mission that transcends mere job titles. Through Safina Empowerment, I’m making deliberate strides to ensure that women in my community—especially those who own small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—are not left behind in the digital revolution.
Our Groundbreaking Initiative
In collaboration with ImpactHER, My organization https://safinaempowerment.org/ Safina Empowerment has launched a groundbreaking initiative with a clear vision: to empower 1,000 women-owned SMEs and women entrepreneurs with the essential business digital skills they need to thrive. But this goes beyond basic computer literacy; it’s about equipping participants with the tools to navigate the competitive digital landscape effectively.
The Essential Skills We’re Providing
Marketing Mastery in the Digital Age:
Participants learn to leverage the power of Google Ads, social media marketing, and data-driven strategies. They discover how to reach their ideal customers and build brand awareness in the vast online marketplace.
Building a Thriving Online Presence:
Crafting captivating websites, optimizing for search engines(SEO), and developing winning digital marketing strategies become second nature. These skills attract new customers and position businesses for success.
E-commerce Expertise:
Setting up seamless online stores, managing transactions securely, and accepting payments with ease—these are the cornerstones of e-commerce success. Website visitors become paying customers.
Data Decoding for Business Growth:
Hidden within customer data lies valuable insight. Participants learn to analyze trends, make informed decisions, and optimize marketing campaigns for sustainable growth.
The Training Benefits Extend Beyond the Classroom
Our program equips participants with the skills to:
- Become Economically Empowered:
Navigating the digital landscape, identifying new economic opportunities, and building scalable online businesses become second nature. Economic empowerment is not just a buzzword; it’s a tangible outcome.
- Become Investor-Ready:
Developing entrepreneurial knowledge and business digital skills increases business valuation. Potential investors take notice when women entrepreneurs are well-prepared for the digital age.
But It Doesn’t End There: Post-Training Support
- Monthly Follow up meetings
Staying up-to-date on essential entrepreneurial topics is crucial. Our monthly sessions ensure that participants continue developing their business digital skills long after the initial training.
- Business Advisory and Opportunities:
We connect participants with experienced business advisors. Exposure to new opportunities helps their businesses scale and thrive.
Get Involved!
If you’re passionate about empowering women and want to be part of this transformative journey, visit our website at https://safinaempowerment.org/ Safina Empowerment or reach out to us at mailto: info@safinaempowerment.org/ mailto: danruto707@gmail.com . We look forward to updating you on the progress of this initiative.