Innovation • Access • Opportunity
Event Overview
GGE attended EdTech Week at Columbia University, a global gathering of leaders shaping the future of learning. Surrounded by educators, founders, and innovators, our team had the opportunity to share our mission: bringing high-quality, offline digital learning to underserved communities. Despite being the youngest founders in the room, we came prepared—with a clear message and a compelling vision that captured attention and sparked meaningful conversations.
Inside EdTech Week at Columbia University
Walking into EdTech Week was both energizing and intimidating. The event buzzed with conversations about emerging technology, innovative pedagogy, and the future of global education. Very quickly, we realized that our age made us stand out—and that became our strength. Attendees were curious, supportive, and eager to learn about the impact our EdTech device is making in schools without internet access.
Engagement Highlights
Once our booth was set up, everything shifted. People approached us wanting to know who we were, what we had built, and why three young founders were so committed to expanding digital access in Ethiopia. We pitched our vision throughout the day—demonstrating our device, telling our story, and learning from every conversation. Each interaction sharpened our message and affirmed the importance of our work.
Key Objectives & Outcomes
Our Goals:
- Connect with EdTech companies offering educational content
- Seek partners for new Digital Lab sites
- Build relationships with organizations aligned with our mission
Some of What We Accomplished:
- Met several companies interested in adapting content for our device
- Began partnership discussions with Kyros, an innovative college-counseling company, exploring ways for their 50,000+ students and contacts to join GGE’s Student Ambassador Program
- Connected with ChromebookParts.com, a national device supplier, and initiated discussions about securing donated Chromebooks to expand our reach
Reflection — “Young, Bold, and Ready”
Attending EdTech Week was more than a conference—it was a milestone. We stepped in as young founders and walked out as entrepreneurs who proved, to others and to ourselves, that capability and passion matter more than age. The connections we built and the lessons we learned will fuel the next chapter of Girls Growing Education.