South Africa - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Empowering youth in underprivileged communities with essential programming skills. We prepare high school students for advanced tech careers and partner with industry leaders to secure prominent roles for our graduates, fostering innovation and diversity

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

SAMTEC - NextGen Coders is a revolutionary initiative focused on empowering underprivileged communities, especially the girl child. Our innovative programming curriculum equips high school students with essential coding skills, preparing them for success in the tech industry. We go beyond traditional education methods by incorporating hands-on projects, mentorship programs, and real-world experiences. Through strategic partnerships with industry leaders, we provide opportunities for our graduates to access top-tier roles, promoting diversity and inclusion in the tech sector. Our holistic approach also includes personal development modules, ensuring students are equipped with the confidence and leadership skills needed to thrive. Additionally, we prepare students for prestigious qualifications such as NQF Level 5 in Systems Development, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the industry.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

SAMTEC aims to address the systemic lack of access to quality tech education and opportunities among underprivileged communities, particularly girls. We recognize that many students in these communities face barriers such as limited resources, inadequate educational infrastructure, and societal biases that hinder their ability to pursue careers in technology. By providing a comprehensive programming curriculum, mentorship, and strategic partnerships with industry leaders, we groom students from high school, seeking to bridge this gap and empower them with the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed to succeed in the tech industry. Through our initiatives, we strive to break down barriers, promote diversity and inclusion, and create a more equitable tech ecosystem for all. Together, we're building a brighter future where everyone has the chance to thrive in the digital age. With dedication and innovation. SAMTEC is committed to nurturing the next generation of tech leaders.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your startup provides (at least 3).

Accessible Education: We offer high-quality tech education to underprivileged students who otherwise lack access to such opportunities. By bringing programming curriculum, mentorship, and partnerships directly to their communities, we break down barriers and ensure equal access to education. Empowerment and Skill Development: Our program equips students with essential coding skills, fostering their confidence and preparing them for success in the tech industry. Through hands-on projects, mentorship, and real-world experiences, students gain practical skills and build a strong foundation for future careers. Career Opportunities: SAMTEC opens doors to exciting career pathways in technology. By preparing students for prestigious qualifications such as NQF Level 5 in Systems Development and fostering partnerships with industry leaders, we provide students with opportunities to secure prominent roles in the tech sector, promoting economic empowerment and upward mobility

01.04 Please describe who exactly your startup’s product/service is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

SAMTEC - NextGen Coders is dedicated to serving underprivileged youth, with a particular focus on high school students and the girl child from marginalized communities. Our primary beneficiaries are students who lack access to quality education and resources necessary to pursue careers in technology. These students often face barriers such as limited educational infrastructure, financial constraints, and societal biases that restrict their opportunities for growth and development. By providing comprehensive programming education, mentorship, and support, SAMTEC aims to empower these students with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the tech industry. We specifically target girls to address gender disparities in STEM fields and promote diversity and inclusion. Our goal is to create a pipeline of skilled and confident young individuals who can contribute to the tech sector, break the cycle of poverty, and drive positive change in their communities.

01.05 When was your company established?

2024-01-30

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

2

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

2

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

Cleopatra Cynthia Mashabane, co-founder of SAMTEC - NextGen Coders, brings a diverse skill set and rich experience to the startup. Having studied software development at Rosebank College and currently enrolled at WeThinkCode in software development, Cynthia has a deep understanding of programming languages and software engineering principles. Her upbringing in a small township in Mpumalanga instilled in her a passion for empowering underprivileged communities through technology. Despite facing challenges transitioning from high school to the tech world, Cynthia's resilience and dedication propelled her to excel academically and professionally. She is actively involved in Africa's Blockchain Club and volunteers for Google Developer Group Johannesburg, demonstrating her commitment to fostering tech innovation and community engagement. Cynthia's expertise in software development, coupled with her leadership in tech-related community initiatives, significantly contributes to SAMTEC's mis

01.10 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link(s) here:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/samtec-sisters-advancing-in-modern-technology/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

h) IT (digital services, equipment and software)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC - NextGen Coders significantly contributes to the goal of ending poverty by providing high-quality tech education to underprivileged youth, particularly girls, from high school onwards. Our initiative equips students with essential programming skills and prepares them for prestigious qualifications, such as NQF Level 5 in Systems Development. By fostering partnerships with industry leaders, we create pathways for our graduates to secure well-paying, prominent roles in the tech sector. This enables them to break the cycle of poverty, support their families, and contribute positively to their communities. By bridging the education gap and promoting socioeconomic mobility, SAMTEC is actively working towards eradicating poverty and creating a more equitable society. Our focus on empowering girls ensures that they, too, have access to opportunities that can lift them and their families out of poverty, fostering long-term economic growth and stability.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC is committed to fighting hunger by providing underprivileged students with essential programming skills that lead to well-paying jobs in the tech industry. By preparing students for prestigious qualifications such as NQF Level 5 in Systems Development and partnering with industry leaders, we ensure that our graduates secure stable, lucrative employment. This financial stability enables them to support themselves and their families, reducing food insecurity. Additionally, SAMTEC’s comprehensive support system includes workshops on financial literacy and resource management, equipping students and their families with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health and nutrition. Through these efforts, SAMTEC addresses hunger at its root, fostering long-term food security and contributing to the broader goal of eliminating hunger in underprivileged communities.

02.03.01 My startup contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC strongly agrees with the goal of ensuring good health and well-being for all. Our startup contributes by providing underprivileged youth, especially girls, with access to high-quality tech education and career opportunities, leading to financial stability. This enables graduates to afford better healthcare, nutritious food, and improved living conditions. Additionally, we incorporate wellness programs, including mental health workshops, stress management techniques, and work-life balance strategies, to ensure holistic well-being. Our impact extends to the broader community by fostering innovation in health tech. By encouraging students to explore intersections between technology and healthcare, we inspire the development of tech solutions for local health challenges, such as telemedicine apps and health monitoring systems. Collaborating with healthcare providers and tech companies, helping to bridge the gap between tech education and healthcare innovation, promoting good health.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC contributes significantly to the goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education. Our startup directly addresses this by providing high-quality tech education to underprivileged youth, particularly girls. We offer a rigorous programming curriculum that equips students with essential coding skills and prepares them for prestigious qualifications such as NQF Level 5 in Systems Development. By focusing on underrepresented communities, we ensure that these students receive the same educational opportunities as their more privileged peers. Additionally, we promote lifelong learning through mentorship programs, workshops, and continuous learning opportunities. Our strategic partnerships with industry leaders create real-world learning experiences and career pathways for our students. By breaking down barriers to education and fostering an inclusive learning environment, SAMTEC is actively working towards making quality education accessible to all, and promoting diversity.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC contributes significantly to the goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education. Our startup directly addresses this by providing high-quality tech education to underprivileged youth, particularly girls. We offer a rigorous programming curriculum that equips students with essential coding skills and prepares them for prestigious qualifications such as NQF Level 5 in Systems Development. By focusing on underrepresented communities, we ensure that these students receive the same educational opportunities as their more privileged peers. Additionally, we promote lifelong learning through mentorship programs, workshops, and continuous learning opportunities. Our strategic partnerships with industry leaders create real-world learning experiences and career pathways for our students. By breaking down barriers to education and fostering an inclusive learning environment, SAMTEC is actively working towards making quality education accessible to all, promoting diversity.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC plays a vital role in addressing the Clean water and sanitation goal by empowering underprivileged communities through tech education. By providing access to quality education and opportunities in the tech sector, we enable individuals to improve their socioeconomic status, leading to better access to essential services like clean water and sanitation. Moreover, our curriculum emphasizes environmental sustainability, instilling values of responsible resource management in students, which can positively impact water and sanitation practices within their communities. Through education and empowerment, SAMTEC contributes to building sustainable communities with improved access to clean water and sanitation facilities.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC is not just an educational initiative; it's a catalyst for sustainable change. By equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to innovate in the clean energy sector, we're not only shaping future leaders but also fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. Our curriculum goes beyond traditional education, emphasizing hands-on experience and real-world application to inspire the next generation of clean energy entrepreneurs. Through strategic partnerships and industry collaborations, SAMTEC is poised to drive significant advancements in affordable and clean energy solutions. With a focus on practical solutions and entrepreneurial spirit, we're igniting a movement towards a greener, more sustainable future for all. Join us in this transformative journey as we revolutionize the way we think about energy and build a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC is a dynamic force driving economic growth and fostering decent work opportunities. Our tech education empowers individuals with cutting-edge skills, preparing them for high-quality employment or entrepreneurial ventures. By nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship, we catalyze economic empowerment, cultivating a skilled workforce and fueling sustainable growth. Through strategic partnerships, SAMTEC facilitates access to meaningful work, advancing a prosperous economy and society. At SAMTEC, we believe that every individual has the potential to contribute meaningfully to the economy and society. Through our comprehensive approach to education and entrepreneurship, we unlock opportunities for personal and professional growth, creating a ripple effect of positive impact in communities. Join us in our mission to empower individuals, transform economies, and build a future where everyone can thrive.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC stands at the forefront of driving industry innovation and infrastructure development. Our tech education programs transcend traditional learning by instilling cutting-edge skills and fostering a mindset of innovation among participants. By equipping individuals with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving tech landscape, we contribute to resilient infrastructure and sustainable industrialization. Through hands-on training, mentorship, and project-based learning, SAMTEC empowers individuals to become innovators in their communities. We emphasize leveraging technology to address societal challenges and stimulate economic growth. Our partnerships with industry leaders ensure our programs align with emerging trends and needs, providing resources, mentorship, and real-world opportunities. SAMTEC’s contribution to industry innovation is multifaceted, empowering individuals while fostering collaborations that drive broader progress.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Our curriculum is designed to address the educational disparities that often hinder students from disadvantaged backgrounds, offering them the same high-quality training and opportunities typically available to more privileged peers. By focusing on diversity and inclusion, we ensure that our graduates are not only technically proficient but also equipped to thrive in a global workforce. SAMTEC partners with industry leaders to facilitate internships, job placements, and entrepreneurial opportunities, thereby promoting socioeconomic mobility. Through these efforts, we help reduce income disparities and create pathways for sustainable economic growth. Our work is not limited to local impact; we aim to contribute to a global reduction in inequalities by fostering a diverse, inclusive, and skilled tech workforce. By leveling the playing field, SAMTEC is instrumental in creating a more equitable and just society.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC plays a pivotal role in advancing sustainable cities and communities by empowering underprivileged youth with essential tech education. Through our initiatives, we promote inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability in urban areas by equipping individuals with innovative skills. By fostering entrepreneurship and job creation, we stimulate economic growth, creating opportunities for sustainable development. Additionally our focus on environmental sustainability encourages students to address urban challenges and contribute to building resilient cities for future generations. Through our comprehensive programs, we equip individuals with innovative skills needed to address urban challenges effectively. By fostering entrepreneurship and job creation, we stimulate economic growth and create opportunities for sustainable development within communities.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC is committed to promoting responsible consumption and production through its educational initiatives. By instilling principles of sustainability and circular economy in our curriculum, we empower individuals to make informed choices that minimize waste and environmental impact. Through practical projects and real-world applications, students learn to develop innovative solutions for sustainable production and consumption patterns. By nurturing a generation of environmentally conscious innovators, SAMTEC contributes to building a more sustainable future for all, where resources are utilized efficiently and waste is minimized. Through our efforts, we aim to drive positive change and foster a culture of responsible consumption and production within communities.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

5

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC plays a crucial role in addressing climate change by fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability within the tech industry. Through our curriculum and projects, we educate students about the importance of climate action and empower them to develop tech solutions that mitigate environmental impact. By nurturing a generation of environmentally conscious innovators, we contribute to the development and implementation of sustainable practices that combat climate change. Through our efforts, we aim to inspire individuals to take urgent action towards a more sustainable and resilient future for our planet.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC, while primarily focused on empowering underprivileged communities through tech education, indirectly contributes to the "Life below water" goal by fostering awareness and education about sustainable practices. By instilling principles of environmental stewardship and sustainability in our curriculum, we cultivate a mindset among our students to appreciate and respect natural resources, including marine ecosystems. Through projects and activities that highlight the interconnectedness of human activities and the environment, we aim to inspire future tech leaders who will innovate solutions that can positively impact marine conservation efforts. While our direct impact on marine resources may be indirect, our educational initiatives lay the foundation for future generations to become advocates for sustainable development, including the conservation of oceans and marine life.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC strongly contributes to the Life on Land goal by integrating environmental education and sustainable practices into our tech curriculum. Our programs emphasize the importance of protecting terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity, teaching students how technology can be used to monitor and combat environmental degradation. Through hands-on projects and collaborations with environmental organizations, we inspire students to develop tech-driven solutions for sustainable land use and forest management. By fostering a new generation of tech-savvy environmental stewards, SAMTEC actively supports efforts to combat desertification, halt land degradation, and protect biodiversity. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond education; we implement eco-friendly practices within our operations and promote awareness about the critical role of technology in environmental conservation.

02.16.01 My startup contributes to the Peace Justice and Strong Institutions goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

SAMTEC contributes to the Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions goal by fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment through tech education. In the South African context, where inequality and limited access to education are prevalent, our initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and create equitable opportunities for all, especially underprivileged communities and girls. By equipping youth with essential programming skills and fostering a mindset of innovation and problem-solving, we empower them to become active, informed participants in society. SAMTEC also emphasizes ethical tech practices, promoting transparency, accountability, and digital literacy. This not only prepares our students for the workforce but also instills values of justice and integrity.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

SAMTEC strongly agrees with the Partnerships for the Goal objective by envisioning strategic alliances with industry leaders, educational institutions, and community organizations. Although still an idea, our startup aims to leverage diverse expertise and resources to maximize our future impact. These partnerships will provide students with access to cutting-edge technologies, mentorship, and real-world experience, bridging the gap between education and employment. In the South African context, where resource constraints and socio-economic disparities are significant, our planned partnerships are crucial for scaling our initiatives and reaching more underprivileged youth. By collaborating with local and global stakeholders, we aim to create a sustainable ecosystem that supports lifelong learning and socio-economic mobility. Our commitment to building these partnerships underscores our dedication to revitalizing the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development.

06.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

2

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

5

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

5

06.06 The product/service responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

5

06.08 Justification for my startup

SAMTEC’s product/service is unique and innovative in several ways. While there are few customers currently using a service similar to ours, we are developing an entirely new type of tech education platform tailored to high school students in informal settlements. This approach represents a significant improvement on existing tech education services, which often overlook underserved communities.Our program introduces new technologies such as WEB3 and blockchain, making it a pioneering educational service. It extends the range of tech education by incorporating these advanced topics into the curriculum, addressing a demand that has not been satisfied by other educational products. By focusing on the basics of programming and introducing students to careers in tech, we create a new version of tech education that is more inclusive and practical.Moreover, SAMTEC responds to the urgent need for digital literacy and tech skills in communities like mine.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

SAMTEC operates in a competitive landscape alongside organizations like WeThinkCode, GirlCode, and Umuzi, all of which are prominent in the tech education and empowerment sectors. However, what uniquely positions SAMTEC is its focused mission on uplifting underprivileged youth in township communities. Unlike some competitors that may have broader target demographics, SAMTEC specifically targets high school students from disadvantaged backgrounds, providing them with essential programming skills and mentorship opportunities.One key differentiation is SAMTEC's holistic approach, which not only teaches technical skills but also emphasizes mentorship and personal development. This approach ensures that students not only learn programming but also gain the confidence and guidance needed to succeed in the tech industry or pursue entrepreneurial ventures. SAMTEC's curriculum is designed to be relevant and accessible, integrating local context, values, and cultural relevance,

11.05 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

SAMTEC - NextGen Coders actively promotes the role of female entrepreneurs within our community through various targeted initiatives. We host workshops specifically designed for young girls and women interested in technology and entrepreneurship, focusing on coding skills, tech entrepreneurship, and leadership development. Our mentorship programs pair aspiring female entrepreneurs with successful women in tech, providing guidance and support to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Networking events facilitate connections between female entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and investors, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. Additionally, we offer scholarships to outstanding female students in tech-related fields to encourage their participation and success in the industry. By partnering with women-focused organizations, we amplify our impact and work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for female entrepreneurs to thrive.