DSGN from 9–19 Program

Innovation isn't just for today’s workforce, it starts with the next generation. That’s the vision behind DSGN from 9–19, a youth-focused CSR initiative led by Africa Fintech Foundry (AFF) in partnership with Athousandplus designs.

This impactful program was designed to introduce young minds to the world of UI/UX design, giving them a head start in creative problem-solving, digital thinking, and tech innovation.

Nurturing Young Designers

DSGN from 9–19 ran for four weekends (March 1 – March 22, 2025) and enrolled 24 children between the ages of 9 and 19. The program offered a hands-on learning experience tailored to equip participants with both foundational and practical design skills.

Core Learning Areas

Participants were introduced to critical design and innovation concepts, including:

• UI/UX principles: Understanding how users interact with digital products.
• Wireframing and Prototyping: Learning how to bring ideas to life visually.
• Human-Centered Design: Solving problems with empathy and user-first thinking.

Through project-based learning and real-time feedback, these young talents explored how design shapes the way we experience technology.

Why It Matters

For AFF

• Reinforces AFF’s commitment to innovation leadership and social impact.
• Opens doors for partnerships around Innovation Hubs and Labs focused on youth empowerment.

For the Children

• Provides valuable digital design skills early on.
• Sparks curiosity and interest in careers within design and technology.

For the Future

• Builds a pipeline of future-ready, tech-savvy innovators.
• Promotes digital literacy and entrepreneurship among Nigeria’s youth.

Building Tomorrow, Today

The DSGN from 9 – 19 program proves that impactful innovation begins with early investment in young talent. By fostering creativity, digital awareness, and problem-solving at a young age, this initiative is helping shape a new generation of Nigerian designers and changemakers.

Stay tuned as Africa Fintech Foundry continues to drive initiatives that merge technology, creativity, and impact for the future.