AfriSIG in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, was not just an event for Creatives Garage; it was a
unique journey of intellectual growth and cultural immersion. The training in Internet
governance provided a strong foundation for understanding the digital landscape, while
also offering a rich opportunity to connect with professionals, activists, and creatives
from across Africa. It was a transformative experience, blending knowledge acquisition
with the exploration of Ethiopia's deep-rooted traditions, paving the way for collaborative
projects that can impact both the digital space and the creative industry.
The AfriSIG Experience.
unique journey of intellectual growth and cultural immersion. The training in Internet
governance provided a strong foundation for understanding the digital landscape, while
also offering a rich opportunity to connect with professionals, activists, and creatives
from across Africa. It was a transformative experience, blending knowledge acquisition
with the exploration of Ethiopia's deep-rooted traditions, paving the way for collaborative
projects that can impact both the digital space and the creative industry.
The AfriSIG Experience.
AfriSIG brought together an inspiring mix of participants, from activists and
policymakers to technologists and creatives, creating a dynamic platform for knowledge
exchange. The training sessions covered crucial issues such as digital rights, policy
development, and the ethical use of technology. Each session left us not only inspired
but also equipped with practical tools to push for a more inclusive and innovative digital
ecosystem.
policymakers to technologists and creatives, creating a dynamic platform for knowledge
exchange. The training sessions covered crucial issues such as digital rights, policy
development, and the ethical use of technology. Each session left us not only inspired
but also equipped with practical tools to push for a more inclusive and innovative digital
ecosystem.
In addition to the technical aspects of the training, there were moments of personal
reflection on how these digital issues intersect with the world of creatives. The diversity
of perspectives at AfriSIG highlighted the potential of Africa to lead the way in fostering
an inclusive internet and digital governance. It was a powerful reminder that the
continent holds immense promise for digital leadership.
reflection on how these digital issues intersect with the world of creatives. The diversity
of perspectives at AfriSIG highlighted the potential of Africa to lead the way in fostering
an inclusive internet and digital governance. It was a powerful reminder that the
continent holds immense promise for digital leadership.
Discovering Ethiopia
Beyond the training sessions, Addis Ababa itself was a vibrant cultural experience. The
rich aromas of traditional Ethiopian coffee, the soulful music that filled the air, and the
warmth of the local people made every moment memorable. Sitting down to enjoy injera
and doro wat with fellow participants from across Africa provided meaningful
opportunities for shared experiences and deepened our sense of connection.
Beyond the training sessions, Addis Ababa itself was a vibrant cultural experience. The
rich aromas of traditional Ethiopian coffee, the soulful music that filled the air, and the
warmth of the local people made every moment memorable. Sitting down to enjoy injera
and doro wat with fellow participants from across Africa provided meaningful
opportunities for shared experiences and deepened our sense of connection.
Building Lifelong Networks
What truly stood out during AfriSIG was the opportunity to build relationships that
extend beyond the conference itself. Creatives Garage formed valuable partnerships
with like-minded individuals and organizations, such as Paradigm Initiative. Their work
in digital inclusion and policy advocacy aligns perfectly with the mission of Creatives
Garage to empower and uplift the creative community. These connections will lead to
impactful collaborations, opening doors for projects that will elevate Kenya's creative
ecosystem and promote digital literacy.
What truly stood out during AfriSIG was the opportunity to build relationships that
extend beyond the conference itself. Creatives Garage formed valuable partnerships
with like-minded individuals and organizations, such as Paradigm Initiative. Their work
in digital inclusion and policy advocacy aligns perfectly with the mission of Creatives
Garage to empower and uplift the creative community. These connections will lead to
impactful collaborations, opening doors for projects that will elevate Kenya's creative
ecosystem and promote digital literacy.
Bringing It Home to Creatives Garage
The insights gained at AfriSIG are a treasure trove of knowledge and opportunity for
Creatives Garage. The integration of digital rights advocacy and the ethical use of
technology will significantly contribute to the growth of Kenya’s creative community. By
working with organizations like Paradigm Initiative, we can drive workshops, policy
initiatives, and innovation to elevate the creative sector, ensuring it thrives in an
increasingly digital world.
The insights gained at AfriSIG are a treasure trove of knowledge and opportunity for
Creatives Garage. The integration of digital rights advocacy and the ethical use of
technology will significantly contribute to the growth of Kenya’s creative community. By
working with organizations like Paradigm Initiative, we can drive workshops, policy
initiatives, and innovation to elevate the creative sector, ensuring it thrives in an
increasingly digital world.
The time spent in Ethiopia, both inside and outside of AfriSIG, was filled with growth,
cultural discovery, and inspiration. These experiences underscored the importance of
community and how it drives transformational change. With the knowledge and
connections gathered, Creatives Garage is energized to continue pushing forward,
ready to foster new opportunities and ensure the creative economy flourishes in the
digital era.