Fact Forward Digital Foundation was born from a simple but personal question: What happens when children from underserved communities gain access to the digital world before they have the knowledge and skills to navigate it?

Our founder, Nadia Noor Khamis, was born and raised in Kibra, one of Kenya’s largest informal settlements. She experienced firsthand the barriers underserved children and young people face in accessing information and opportunities.

Her journalism career across Kenya, South Sudan and Sudan showed her the power of information to shape communities. She also saw how misinformation and harmful narratives can fuel fear, deepen divisions and contribute to conflict. These experiences taught her that access to information is not enough; people need critical thinking skills to understand, question and navigate it. She began to think about children growing up in urban underserved communities like the one she came from.

Many are increasingly connected to the internet. They use smartphones, social media and online platforms. But being connected does not necessarily mean being prepared.

Can they understand the internet, distinguish reliable information from misinformation, recognise online risks, protect their privacy and discover opportunities for learning, creativity and future careers? For girls in particular, can they understand online safety, establish healthy boundaries and confidently participate in digital spaces?

These questions became the foundation for FFDF. She also recognised that children cannot navigate the digital world alone. To make this vision possible, she chose to work alongside those closest to children every day: teachers, parents and caregivers.

Together, they can create the support and safe environments children need to become confident digital citizens. This is why FFDF takes a community-driven approach. We work with schools, educators, parents, communities and other stakeholders to help children understand technology, question information, navigate safely and create opportunities.

We believe underserved children and young people deserve more than internet access. They deserve the knowledge, skills and confidence to participate, thrive and shape the digital world safely and meaningfully. That is why we exist.