Photographer: Ana Miyares
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.
Michael’s visionary leadership and strong belief in the transformative power of education and technology have guided the organization in achieving significant milestones and making a tangible impact. He maintains a firm commitment to realizing Angaza Center’s vision of empowering 90% of rural Kenyan secondary schools by the end of 2028 and 50% of rural African secondary schools by the end of 2025.
Born in the village of Ndori in Kenya, Michael experienced firsthand the challenges faced by young people when trying to access a quality education and career advancement opportunities.
After completing a master’s degree in information systems management from Ferris State University, Michael worked in technology consulting for 8 years before embarking on tech entrepreneurship in data, analytics, and AI. He believes that learning never ends, and has gone on to attain a Master Negotiation professional training from Harvard Business School and certifications in Project Leadership and Strategic Decision Making from the University of Chicago’s Graham School of Continuing Studies.
Michael’s 26-year career in tech has been focused on helping organizations to use data to harness their true business story. He has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of technology and the opportunities it can unlock for individuals and communities.
Michael is driven by a deep-rooted passion for improving the social and economic fortunes of young people – particularly lives in rural areas. This is the passion that guided him to start Angaza Center. Michael recognizes the vital role of digital literacy in unlocking opportunities and has therefore dedicated himself to providing students in underserved and rural communities with the necessary collaboration and productivity tools and skills to help fuel their success.
Michael lives in the Chicagoland area with his wife Anne, and their two boys, Segi and Kian. In addition to his work with Angaza Center, Michael is actively involved in his local community, serving on the school board for Lincolnshire-Prairie View District 103 for six years. Through his service he has helped shape educational policies and programs that enhance the learning experience and opportunities for students in the community he lives in.
FWM: You experienced firsthand the challenges faced by young people when trying to access a quality education and career advancement opportunities. Share your background and what led you to launch the Angaza Center.
My personal journey and experiences have shaped my deep understanding of the challenges faced by young people when it comes to accessing quality education and career opportunities. I was born and raised in a small village called Ndori in Kenya, where resources were scarce, and educational opportunities were limited.
When I had the opportunity to pursue higher education in the United States, studying for my Master’s in Information Systems Management, I witnessed the transformative power of technology and its potential to bridge the educational divide. I realized that technology could be a catalyst for change and provide equal opportunities for students, regardless of their geographical location.
Fast forward …. In 2022, motivated by this realization, I founded Angaza Center with the mission to empower students in rural African secondary schools with information and communication technology (ICT) literacy. I wanted to give young people the tools they need to thrive in the digital age and create pathways to economic and social prosperity.
Photographer: Ana Miyares
My own journey, coupled with a deep passion for social impact and a belief in the potential of young minds, inspired me to establish Angaza Center. I am driven by the desire to make a lasting difference in the lives of students and communities by providing them with the necessary skills and opportunities to shape their own futures. I believe that every young person deserves access to a quality education and the chance to realize their full potential, regardless of their circumstances.
FMM: Your visionary leadership and strong belief in the transformative power of education and technology have guided the Angaza Center. Tell us about the innovative programs and initiatives.
At Angaza Center, we are driven by a strong belief in the transformative power of education and technology. We have developed innovative programs and initiatives that empower students in rural African secondary schools and provide them with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in the digital age.
One of our flagship programs is the ICT Literacy Program, which equips students with essential digital skills such as collaboration & productivity literacy, and data analysis. Through hands-on training and interactive learning experiences, we ensure that students are not only consumers of technology but also creators and problem solvers.
Additionally, we have established strategic partnerships with local schools, universities, and organizations to expand our reach and create a collaborative ecosystem for educational advancement. Our partnerships enable us to provide access to resources, mentorship programs, and career guidance, ensuring that students have a holistic support system as they navigate their educational journey.
Furthermore, we recognize the importance of peer-to-peer learning and mentorship. We have implemented the Peer Training Program, where students who have excelled in ICT literacy become trainers themselves, sharing their knowledge and skills with their peers. This approach fosters a sense of empowerment and builds a community of learners who support and inspire one another.
Innovation is at the core of our work, and we continuously explore emerging technologies and educational approaches to enhance our programs. By leveraging tools such as online learning platforms, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence, we aim to create engaging and interactive educational experiences that transcend traditional classroom boundaries.
Through these innovative programs and initiatives, we are not only bridging the digital divide but also cultivating a generation of empowered and digitally literate young leaders who can drive positive change in their communities and beyond.
FMM: How is your vision of empowering 90% of rural Kenyan secondary schools by the end of 2028 and 50% of rural African secondary schools by the end of 2035 a reality?
Our vision of empowering 90% of rural Kenyan secondary schools by the end of 2028 and 50% of rural African secondary schools by the end of 2035 is grounded in our commitment to making a tangible and sustainable impact on education in Africa. We have made significant progress in realizing this vision through strategic initiatives and collaborative partnerships.
In Kenya, we have successfully launched the ICT Literacy Program in 10 rural secondary schools (Member Schools), translating to over 3,000 students equipped with vital digital skills. Our program has been met with enthusiasm and positive feedback from students, teachers, and parents, reflecting the relevance and impact of our work.
To pilot the program outside of Kenya, we have launched a large school in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with student count of about 3,000.
We have established partnerships with a couple of Partner Schools: Stevenson High School – District 125, and Lincolnshire-Prairie View – District 103. SHS has donated close to 400 computer devices; District 103 has donated 60 devices.
Through our Connect-Learn-Empower campaign, we showcase the unique value of Angaza Center’s student programs to Partner Schools and Partner Colleges. We connect students across continents through technology and education; we are creating a global community of learners who are empowered to create positive change in their own communities and beyond. By partnering with schools and colleges around the world, we create a network of socially responsible global citizens who share our vision. Together, we can make a real difference for students around the world.
FMM: Tell us about the importance of technology in your success.
Technology has played a pivotal role in my own journey and success, serving as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. As an individual driven by a passion for education and social impact, technology has been the key that unlocked new possibilities and expanded horizons.
For me personally, the fact that I studied information technology management, and have been a practitioner in the tech space has opened many doors over the years. I am a technology entrepreneur with a bias on data, analytics, and AI. I have witnessed first-hand how technology can enable an organization to gain competitive advantage or not.
With every step forward, I remain committed to harnessing the power of technology to unlock the potential of individuals and create a more equitable and inclusive world.
FMM: What do you want the world to know about the Angaza Center?
I want the world to know that the Angaza Center is more than just an organization. We are a catalyst for change, a beacon of hope, and a driving force in transforming the lives of young people in rural African communities.
What sets the Angaza Center apart is our holistic approach, combining technology, education, and community engagement. We work closely with local communities, schools, and partners to ensure that our programs are sustainable, culturally relevant, and tailored to the specific needs of each community we serve.
Angaza Center is a catalyst for positive change in the lives of young people. Together, we are shaping a world where every young person has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.
FMM: Can you share your proudest moment?
I want the world to know about the transformative power of our work and the incredible stories of success that have emerged. One such inspiring example is the recent recognition received by five students from Stevenson High School (SHS), who were honored with the prestigious Prominent Patriot Award. These students have been actively involved in teaching and supporting students at Angaza Center Member Schools, dedicating their time and expertise to make a difference in the lives of young learners.
Their commitment and passion for education have not only benefited the students they’ve taught but have also created a ripple effect of positive change. Through their efforts, they have contributed to enhancing the educational opportunities and empowering students in rural African communities. The recognition they have received underscores the significance of their work and serves as a testament to the impact that can be achieved through collaborative efforts.
These students embody the spirit of Angaza Center and exemplify the core values we uphold— empowering youth, fostering global connections, and promoting education as a catalyst for change. Their story is just one among many success stories that demonstrate the immense potential and possibilities that arise when young individuals come together to make a difference. It is through such inspiring moments that we continue to strive towards our vision of empowering 90% of rural Kenyan secondary schools by the end of 2028 and 50% of rural African secondary schools by the end of 2035.
The Angaza Center stands as a beacon of hope, offering opportunities for students to access quality education, develop digital literacy skills, and unlock their full potential. We are proud of the remarkable progress we have made and remain committed to expanding our reach, creating sustainable partnerships, and nurturing a generation of empowered young individuals who will shape a brighter future.