Nigeria - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Stuworka is an innovative platform leveraging AI-matching and a student-centric model to empower students globally by providing equitable access to paid gigs, internships, volunteering, mentorship and skill-building opportunities.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Stuworka is an innovative EduTech platform designed to bridge the gap between students and employment opportunities. By leveraging AI-driven matching algorithms, Stuworka connects local and international students with a variety of work options including micro gigs, internships, volunteering, and remote jobs. Our platform addresses critical challenges such as high graduate unemployment rates, visa restrictions for international students, and the lack of access to relevant work experience. Stuworka offers a user-friendly interface with multilingual support and mobile accessibility, ensuring inclusivity and ease of use. Through strategic partnerships with universities, businesses, and NGOs, Stuworka sources diverse opportunities that enhance student employability, provide financial support, and foster essential skill development. Our mission is to empower students to gain practical experience, support themselves financially, and build a robust foundation for their future careers.

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

The identified community challenge we aim to address is the lack of accessible opportunities for students to gain real-world experience, earn income, and develop professional skills to launch their careers successfully. Many students face significant barriers such as rising tuition costs, lack of financial resources, and an increasingly competitive job market. Additionally, the process of finding internships, gigs, and entry-level positions is often fragmented, time-consuming, and demoralizing, widening the experience and opportunity gap. These obstacles stifle student potential and exacerbate inequalities, leaving many talented individuals unable to fully unleash their capabilities and contribute their diverse perspectives. By tackling this multi-faceted challenge, we aim to empower students, particularly those from underserved communities, to access tailored opportunities that allow them to earn, learn and grow their networks.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

- Equitable Access to Earning Opportunities: Stuworka democratizes access to paid gigs, micro-jobs, internships and projects tailored to each student's interests and goals. This empowers youth from all socioeconomic backgrounds to generate income while gaining practical experience, fostering socioeconomic mobility and inclusivity. - Personalized Pathway to Experiential Learning: Our AI-powered matching connects students with hands-on learning opportunities aligned with their unique skills, passions and career aspirations. From skill-building projects to mentorships, Stuworka provides a customized journey to develop in-demand capabilities needed to thrive in the future workforce. - Unified Ecosystem for Career Exploration and networking: Stuworka serves as a centralized hub to discover a diverse array of opportunities across industries and disciplines. Students build professional portfolios and connections with peers, experts, companies and nonprofits.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Our primary beneficiaries are students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. This includes youth facing financial constraints, those from marginalized communities, first-generation students, and individuals with limited access to professional networks/opportunities due to socioeconomic factors. By providing equitable pathways to paid gigs, skill-building projects, mentorship and more, we empower these students to achieve socioeconomic mobility. Stuworka serves as a talent pipeline for companies, nonprofits and other organizations to access a diverse pool of motivated student workers for freelance projects, micro-tasks, internships and entry-level roles matched to their needs.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-04-01

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

6

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

3

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Nelson Izah: A Geology student at Kazakh British Technical University, Nelson leverages technology for social change. As Hult Prize Foundation Campus Director and Google Africa Scholarship mentor, he has over five years of leadership experience with VSO, STEMi Makers Africa, and more. Beauty Ikudehinbu: A specialist in Data Science, Machine Learning, and AI, Beauty graduated in Computer Science from the African Leadership University. She is a Microsoft Student Ambassador and founded The Gardener's Club at ALU, Rwanda. Adetoba Matthew: A Policy Officer with a master’s in Project Management, Adetoba develops sustainable policies and has extensive IT project management experience, previously supporting MTN sim registration at Arravo. Ebiniyi Olabode: A UI/UX and Graphics Designer with over 7 years of experience, Ebiniyi studies Computer Systems and Software at Kazakh British Technical University, focusing on high-impact social sustainability projects.

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

https://www.stuworka.com

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

h) IT (digital services, equipment and software)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

Stuworka directly tackles poverty alleviation by providing an ecosystem for underserved students to access paid income opportunities tailored to their skills and interests. Our platform opens channels for youth to earn through micro-gigs, freelance projects and paid internships - supplementing limited financial resources. This increased economic empowerment helps cover crucial expenses like tuition, living costs and more. Moreover, by facilitating practical experiences and professional networking, Stuworka equips students with the hands-on training and social capital required to boost employability post-graduation. This enhanced career readiness increases their potential for securing higher-paying jobs and catalyzes long-term socioeconomic mobility out of the cycle of poverty.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

4

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

While Stuworka is not directly focused on food production or distribution, our model helps address a key root cause of hunger - poverty and lack of economic access. By empowering underserved students with tailored earning opportunities like paid gigs, freelance projects and internships, we provide pathways for income generation. This increased economic empowerment enables students from low-income backgrounds to afford basic nutritional needs and achieve food security for themselves and their families. The supplemental income can help cover costs of groceries, meals and other expenses that support a healthy, balanced diet.

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

4

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

By providing underserved students with tailored earning opportunities like paid gigs and freelance projects, Stuworka helps alleviate a major source of stress - lack of income to cover basic needs. This financial empowerment allows students to afford better nutrition, healthcare access and overall higher quality of living conducive to good mental and physical health.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Our startup, Stuworka, significantly contributes to the goal of quality education by bridging the gap between academic learning and practical experience. We provide students with access to flexible micro gigs, internships, volunteering, and remote work opportunities that are tailored to their skills and career aspirations. This real-world experience complements their academic education, enhancing their employability and practical knowledge. Additionally, our AI-driven matching algorithm ensures that students are connected with opportunities that best fit their academic background and interests, facilitating personalized and relevant learning experiences. By partnering with educational institutions and businesses, we create a holistic ecosystem where students can thrive academically and professionally, ultimately fostering a higher quality education that prepares them for successful careers.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Stuworka plays a crucial role in promoting gender equality by providing equal access to opportunities for all students, regardless of gender. Our platform does not discriminate based on gender, ensuring that both women and men have access to the same range of opportunities for skill development, career advancement, and financial independence. Additionally, by partnering with organizations that prioritize diversity and inclusion, we actively support initiatives that empower women and girls in their educational and professional pursuits. Through our commitment to equality and fairness, Stuworka contributes to creating a more inclusive society where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive and succeed, irrespective of gender.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

4

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

While Stuworka's primary focus is on educational and employment opportunities, we recognize the interconnectedness of societal issues. Our commitment to sustainability extends to promoting initiatives that contribute to clean water and sanitation. Through partnerships with organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and community development, we support projects aimed at ensuring access to clean water and sustainable sanitation practices through volunteering initiative on stuworka, where organization that focuses on clean water and sanitation can seek for stuworka volunteer who are passionate towards their vision and cause

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

4

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

While Stuworka's primary focus lies within the educational and employment sectors, we are committed to fostering sustainability across all aspects of our operations. Our platform promotes remote work opportunities, reducing the need for physical commuting and thereby contributing to lower carbon emissions.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

Stuworka significantly contributes to decent work and economic growth by connecting individuals, particularly students, with diverse employment opportunities. Through our platform, users can access part-time jobs, internships, and remote work options, promoting full and productive employment. By facilitating skill development and practical experience, we empower individuals to secure meaningful employment, fostering inclusive economic growth. Additionally, our emphasis on equal access ensures that all users have the opportunity to benefit from these opportunities, further promoting sustainability and inclusivity in the workforce.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Stuworka contributes to industry innovation and infrastructure by fostering a dynamic ecosystem where students can gain practical experience and contribute to innovation. By connecting students with diverse opportunities such as internships, micro gigs, and remote work, we support the development of skills needed for the industries of the future.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Stuworka contributes to reducing inequalities by providing equal access to opportunities for all students, irrespective of their backgrounds or circumstances. We prioritize inclusivity by ensuring that our platform is accessible to students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, including those from underrepresented communities.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

4

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Stuworka contributes to sustainable cities and communities by promoting remote work opportunities, reducing the need for physical commuting and alleviating strain on urban infrastructure. By facilitating access to employment opportunities outside of traditional office settings, we support the development of inclusive, safe, and resilient communities. Additionally, our platform encourages skill development and knowledge sharing among students, contributing to the growth of a skilled workforce that can drive sustainable urban development. Through partnerships with local organizations and businesses, we foster collaboration and innovation aimed at creating more inclusive and sustainable cities for all residents.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

3

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Stuworka contributes to responsible consumption and production by promoting sustainable work practices and reducing environmental impact. Through our platform, we facilitate remote work opportunities, minimizing the need for physical commuting and associated carbon emissions.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

4

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

We advocate for sustainability within our platform, encouraging users to adopt eco-friendly practices and support businesses committed to combating climate change. Through these efforts, Stuworka actively supports urgent action to address climate change and its impacts, contributing to a more sustainable future for our planet.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

3

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

While Stuworka's primary focus is on educational and employment opportunities, we recognize the importance of conserving marine resources for sustainable development. We support initiatives that promote ocean conservation and sustainable use of marine resources by raising awareness among our users and partnering with organizations dedicated to marine conservation efforts through student active participation in volunteering for organization that share same cause.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

2

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

3

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Stuworka contributes to peace, justice, and strong institutions by fostering inclusive opportunities and promoting equal access to education and employment. By providing a platform where students from diverse backgrounds can connect and thrive, we contribute to building peaceful and inclusive societies.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Stuworka strongly contributes to partnerships for the goal by actively collaborating with universities, businesses, NGOs, and other stakeholders to promote sustainable development. Through strategic partnerships, we leverage collective expertise and resources to enhance our platform's impact and reach. By fostering dialogue and cooperation among diverse stakeholders, we strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development. Through these partnerships, Stuworka aims to maximize our collective efforts towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and creating positive societal change.

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

5

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

5

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

5

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

6

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

5

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

6

05.08 Justification

Stuworka's innovation lies in its personalized opportunity matching using advanced algorithms to curate tailored internships, gigs, projects and more based on students' unique skills and interests. Our holistic approach empowers students to earn income, gain experience, and build networks through a centralized platform. We disrupt systemic barriers by actively promoting equitable access for underserved communities often overlooked by traditional platforms. Our comprehensive ecosystem integrates career development, mentorship, wellness support, and community features to uplift students holistically. Our two-sided marketplace creates value for both students and organizations, driving positive societal impact. Architected for global scalability yet localized relevance, Stuworka reimagines how opportunities are accessed while celebrating diversity. Our student-centric model paves the way for a more equitable, meritocratic future unleashing limitless potential.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

Stuworka stands out by democratizing opportunities globally, starting in underserved regions like Central Asia and Africa often overlooked. Our personalized matching overcomes geographical barriers, enabling students worldwide to access tailored internships, gigs, projects and more aligned with their aspirations. We foster cross-border connections, cultural exchange and collaboration through our global community platform. Students gain regional relevance while exploring opportunities and building networks across borders - a distinct advantage over locally-confined competitors. Our holistic ecosystem nurtures socioeconomic mobility through equitable access, career resources, mentorship and wellness support. This comprehensive empowerment model transcends mere job listings, uniquely positioning Stuworka to uplift marginalized youth through transformative, culturally-aware experiences.

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

Yes, I am actively promoting female entrepreneurship in our community. In collaboration with the MasterCard Foundation, we are mobilizing 20,000 women aged 18-35 for entrepreneurship training. The program includes modules on business preparation, planning, business models, accounting for non-accountants, and leveraging social media for business growth. We have also trained over 7,000 youths in digital skills through initiatives like the Grow with Google program and Online Safety by Google. Some of my work has been recognized on platforms like Sweet FM 107.1, Crest FM, Roots FM, and OGTV. My goal is to mentor young people in top-notch administrative and digital skills to develop a better society and influence beneficial policies.