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Blackout’s mission is to empower African youth to create a path out of poverty for themselves and for their communities by sharing funding and scholarship opportunities for those who want to pursue higher education.
We see a better Africa where everyone can readily access the opportunities they need.
Our Story
In 2019, there was a media blackout of the protests in Sudan. Having access to the internet and social media made me realise how loud a voice I had. I could with it choose to criticise, to attack, or to uplift. I chose the latter. I chose to start from it a project that will hopefully make international opportunities more accessible to Africans, especially Batswana. Founded in July 2021, this website-based platform aims to be a one stop shop for scholarships and internships, and not just for university level youth.
How the media Blackout fits into it
BLACKOUT brings Africa to the world and also helps shed a bit of light on issues that the international media isn’t talking about. Media blackouts have killed a lot of revolutions (particularly in Africa). Where there could have been change, people were silenced. Where there could have been an opportunity to LEARN and GROW, there was ignorance. Blackout hopes to help address these issues that are almost taboo, presenting opportunities for both learning and teaching.
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We actively promote educational equity in Africa by sharing and providing opportunities that will make the advantages of education available to all.
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We raise awareness on the issues impacting youth mental health. Blackout shares a list of mental health services in Botswana, South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya and Oxford.
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Blackout supports activism through poetry, blogs and YouTube videos. These address contemporary issues such as mental health, gender based violence and racism. Please get in touch if you'd like to contribute.