www.inspirechangefoundation.org; +250791275590

Summary: As a young teenager in Nigeria, Ashraf Maisikeli founded the Inspire Change Foundation, a nonprofit that provides ways for young people to thrive. The organization has positively affected hundreds of children—bringing them back from drug addiction, returning them to school, and helping them promote positive change in their communities.

Profile: Ashraf Maisikeli grew up in a rather poor community in northern Nigeria. Street children, children no longer in school, children addicted to drugs, children abused by their parents—hardly any of them believed that they could change their future for the better. However, Ashraf was one of the few, even at the age of 14, who did believe in that change. He considered challenges to be not obstacles but opportunities.

So Ashraf first co-founded the Young Developer Foundation, which provides underprivileged children with access to vocational skills. Then in 2023 he launched the Inspire Change Foundation: “Our mission is to empower children and young people to create enduring positive change in their communities through education, skills development programs, and social justice advocacy.” As he has said, “Every child deserves the right to dream, because in their dreams lies the blueprint for a brighter future, and every child needs to have a promise for a brighter future.”

Inspire Change has many facets. For example, its “Voices Unheard: Transforming Stories” campaign seeks to raise awareness and inspire action using poetry, animation, and documentaries; Ashraf and his colleagues believe that telling stories is a powerful tool for change. Another project is “Changemaker Clubs”, which provides platforms for students to develop skills, engage in community projects, and encourage social action. In general, the organization involves young people throughout communities in workshops and discussions that focus on making decisions, solving problems, and managing programs. In just a few years, hundreds of young Nigerians have experienced a positive influence from Inspire Change. The children now have the attitude and the skills necessary for change that helps them and those around them.

Ashraf wants to expand Inspire Change by providing training in digital and vocational skills, in addition to working with schools to help former students return to the classroom. Of course, finances are often difficult to manage. Ashraf plans on generating revenue through social enterprises and sponsorships.

He remains optimistic, and that attitude guides the organization: “Each of us has the power to make a difference, no matter how small our actions may seem. Let’s continue to inspire, support, and uplift each other in our shared mission to create a better world.”