Impact Project

Beyond The Screen: Tech & Leadership for Social Impact (YDoS Project)

Target Audience

Youths (Unemployed and Underemployed)

Location

Ikorodu, Lagos

Number Reached

26

Partner

LEAP Africa (YDoS Grant) – Funding & oversight, Ikorodu West LCDA – Community & venue support, Community leaders & youth groups – Mobilization, Creative Digita Technologies – Implementation

Key Outcome

26 youths trained (including 5 persons with disabilities), 20+ additional youths trained in advanced phase, 65%+ demonstrated practical proficiency, Participants: Created business pages, Launched YouTube channels, and Started offering digital services

In a community where many young people had smartphones but lacked the skills to turn them into tools for income, Creative Digita Technologies launched Beyond The Screen — a digital empowerment initiative that transforms everyday phone users into creators, freelancers, and digital entrepreneurs.

Through a hands-on, real-world training model, participants didn’t just learn — they built, launched, and monetized their skills.

The Problem

In many underserved communities like Ikorodu:

  • Youths own smartphones but lack income-generating digital skills
  • Heavy reliance on social media for consumption, not creation
  • High unemployment and underemployment
  • Limited access to affordable digital training
  • Persons with disabilities face even greater barriers

This creates a cycle of digital access without economic value.

The Solution

The project introduced a practical, monetization-driven digital training model that:

  • Focused on skills that generate income immediately
  • Used accessible tools (mobile-first learning)
  • Combined digital skills + leadership + mentorship
  • Created a community for continuous growth

What Was Done

Phase 1 (Main Program):

  • Trained 26 youths (including persons with disabilities)
  • Delivered modules on:
    • AI tools (ChatGPT, Copilot, etc.)
    • Graphics design (Canva)
    • Video editing (CapCut)
    • Content creation & social media management
    • YouTube setup and monetization

Phase 2 (Continuity Program):

  • Advanced training for selected participants
  • Focused on:
    • Video editing mastery
    • Content strategy
    • YouTube monetization

Support System:

  • Created a WhatsApp mentorship community
  • Integrated participants into ongoing CDT ecosystem

Impact & Results

  • 26 youths trained (including 5 persons with disabilities)
  • 20+ additional youths trained in advanced phase
  • 65%+ demonstrated practical proficiency
  • Participants:
    • Created business pages
    • Launched YouTube channels
    • Started offering digital services

Most importantly:

  • Shift from content consumers → digital earners

Real Impact (Human Stories)

“I can now design flyers and market my bead-making business online… this program gave me skills, confidence, and a new vision.”
— Participant, Ikorodu

“For the first time, I don’t feel invisible… I can now showcase my work and attract customers.”
— Young hairdresser & participant

Innovation

  • Mobile-first digital training model (low barrier to entry)
  • Integration of AI tools for grassroots users
  • Combination of:
    • Skills training
    • Leadership development
    • Monetization strategy
  • WhatsApp-based mentorship ecosystem

Challenges & Learning

  • Limited resources vs high demand
  • Internet and power constraints
  • Need for more devices

Key Insight:

When training is practical and tied to income, engagement and outcomes increase significantly.

Sustainability & Scale

  • Participants onboarded into long-term mentorship community
  • Annual execution under CDT programs
  • Peer-to-peer multiplier model:
    👉 Each participant trains others
  • Future direction:
    👉 Expansion across multiple LGAs and states
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