Our Theory of Change

Alignment with UN 2030 SDGs

Through our programs and community-focused approach, SHIELD directly contributes to creating a more equitable and sustainable future in alignment with SDG 2030.

No Poverty

Our entrepreneurship and skills development programs prepare youths from underserved communities to explore pathways to earn a living and raise their living standards

Quality Education

We provide quality training and mentorship programs to help the ordinary youth kickstart their tech and entrepreneurship career.

Gender Equality

We ensure equal participation of both women and men in our programs, empowering them with skills and opportunities to become leaders in tech and entrepreneurship

Decent Work & Economic Growth

We foster social entrepreneurship and prepare youth for high-demand tech careers that drive sustainable economic growth and decent work opportunities.

Industry, Innovation & Infrasctructure

We understand that not everyone can become a successful entrepreneur. In light of this, we provide additional pathways to job entry for our beneficiaries. Job linkages through our partners and exploring freelancing opportunities.

Reduced Inequality

We focus on underserved communities providing opportunities to those who face systemic barriers, thus reducing social and economic inequalities.

Sustainable Cities & Communities

We incubate community-driven initiatives, enabling residents to create solutions that improve urban living conditions and promote sustainable development in underserved communities.

Partnership for the Goals

We collaborate with Development organizations and global tech and nonprofit entities, fostering partnerships to amplify its impact and scale sustainable development.

How we measure impact

Before the program, participants’ level of exposure to core training topics, current state of ideas, challenges previously faced, and program expectations will be recorded through an online baseline survey and a pre-assessment test embedded in the application form and course platform. This data will be collected and compared with post-assessments to measure growth and determine the effectiveness of our programs.

~ Output will be measured in 2 steps

Reaction

Reactions will be evaluated through daily reflections, testimonials, and an online post-evaluation survey completed by students and tutors. This survey will assess their overall experience, measure satisfaction with the training sessions, and gather insights to improve future program delivery. Our aim is to ensure participants feel engaged, supported, and motivated to continue applying the knowledge and skills acquired during the program. By focusing on meaningful feedback, we strive to create a learning environment.

~ Outcomes will be measured in 2 steps

Behavior Change

6 to 12 months after implementation, we will conduct a behaviour evaluation to assess the extent to which participants apply their learning from the program and the change in their behaviour. This will be conducted via a series of online surveys to ensure convenience. We strive to achieve mindset change, incorporate human-centred and community driven values and skills in our beneficiaries that they can leverage to bring positive social impact in their communities.

Learning

Learnings are assessed through daily quizzes(all programs, students’ tech projects (Websites and Mobile apps) weekly assessments in tech programs and a pitch presentations on demo day in entrepreneurship programs. Learning occurs when one or more of the following has occurred: attitudes are changed, knowledge is increased, and/ or skills improved.

Result

We assess results 1 to 2 years after participants implement their action plans to understand how they have adopted the approaches taught and sustained their initiatives. This includes tracking the number of community members engaged, financial gains, and measurable impact. Through online surveys and alumni engagement, we evaluate resilience and economic contribution.

~ Our theory of Change

Input

Potential learners

High potential youth and leaders coming from underserved communities  who will be beneficiaries of the SHIELD program

Resources

Productivity resources to support learners for example WIFI, computers and working space

Mentorship

Industrial experts who will serve as mentors, trainers and coaches

Output

Talent pool

A group of skilled young technology and digital professionals who provide technical solutions and innovations to communities, and offer their talent to local organizations and companies.

Social Entrepreneurs

Active social entrepreneurs trained and supported through SHIELD programs to create local solutions in underserved communities.

Youth-led Initiatives

 New social ventures, innovations, and community development initiatives led by young people and launched through SHIELD programs in underserved communities.

Outcomes

Enhanced Digital Literacy and Capacity

 Increased digital literacy, technical skills, and social entrepreneurship management among young people, entrepreneurs, and social change leaders in underserved communities.

Improved Access to Opportunities

 Enhanced access to higher education, career development, and leadership opportunities for youth from underserved communities.

Stronger Stakeholder Engagement

 Improved engagement of social impact community stakeholders to boost sustainability and accountability of youth-led social ventures and community initiatives.