Thriving in 2024: Ambitious Africa's unstoppable journey continues!

As we stand at the threshold of a brand-new year, the excitement within the Ambitious Africa team is palpable and contagious!

Reflecting on the extraordinary journey we traversed in the past year at our Creative Gateway program, it's impossible not to be filled with pride and enthusiasm.

For those just joining our story, Ambitious Africa is the heartbeat behind the Creative Gateway initiative – a transformative endeavour where we impart 3D modelling skills to the vibrant youth of Kakuma Refugee Camp.

In 2023, we welcomed our inaugural cohort of 3D students, and it was nothing short of amazing! The energy, the determination, and the sheer creativity that filled our space were awe-inspiring.

However, like any journey into the unknown, we faced challenges, and oh, what an invaluable teacher those challenges turned out to be!

Being our first cohort, we embraced the learning curve with open arms. Every hiccup, every triumph, and every "aha" moment became a stepping stone towards refining our mission.

What's truly exciting about welcoming subsequent cohorts is the prospect of applying those learnings. It's a chance to make improvements, adjustments, and elevate our program to new heights.

Cohort 2 is already underway

We're are so thrilled to announce that Cohort 2 is already in full swing!

Following a meticulous recruitment process towards the end of 2023, we've assembled an exceptional group of new students in Kakuma that are poised to embark on our 3D training adventure.

The enthusiasm and turnout for Cohort 2 have been nothing short of spectacular. What's truly exhilarating is the overwhelming response – a larger group compared to our inaugural cohort. The energy at our first meet and greet was electric, and the turnout was exactly what we hoped for.

News of our 3D modelling course has spread like wildfire, attracting a surge of enthusiastic minds eager to level up their skills and embrace personal and professional growth. In a region where employment opportunities for the youth are unfortunately limited, witnessing this surge of interest is not just heartening but inspiring.

We understand the challenges these bright minds face, and we take our role in preparing them for the world of freelance work with utmost seriousness. More than ever, we are dedicated to providing them with not just skills but a roadmap to navigate the vast freelance landscape of opportunities that lie ahead.

Cohort 1 updates

As Cohort 2 dives into their training, our pioneer class is proving to be nothing short of helpful. Balancing their freelance gigs, our Cohort 1 graduates, under the watchful guidance of Jeff and Cyril, are extending their hands to assist our new learners.

This support takes the form of mentorship and a helping hand to ease the newcomers into the program. We're not just a community; we're a thriving family that grows together.

Simultaneously, we bear the responsibility of securing quality gigs for our graduates, and we're not slacking on that front. A heartfelt thank you to all the creative companies that have joined us so far, and to all our partners stepping up to support this empowering journey.

Did We Mention? Our Container Hub is Open!

Our Container Hub, a space that emerged from the sweat, grit, and unwavering dedication of our on-the-ground team in Kakuma, is not just open— it’s a vision unfolding, a dream materializing.

After months of hard work, collaboration, and a touch of Kakuma magic, we're thrilled to declare it officially operational! Kakuma posed its challenges, but our incredible team tackled them head-on.

And here's the best part: our hub is not just a space; it's a haven for creativity, a sanctuary for growth. A place where our students can not only learn but thrive, and our graduates can embark on their freelance journeys in comfort and style.

We can't wait to give you a virtual tour soon, showcasing the vibrant interiors and exteriors that mirror the spirit of our community. Get ready for a burst of creativity, a hub that pulsates with the heartbeat of Kakuma's youth, and an embodiment of what's possible when dreams meet determination.

It wasn't easy, but nothing truly worthwhile ever is.

Lastly

As we dive headfirst into 2024, we're fuelled not just by the memories of our past achievements but by the untapped potential awaiting discovery. The successive cohorts bring with them the promise of growth, innovation, and a continuous evolution of our approach.

We can't wait to see how their unique perspectives and talents will shape the future of our Creative Gateway.

Here's to an extraordinary year of growth, collaboration, and countless achievements!