The Internet Society Foundation is proud to present BOLT Amplify, a series of audio episodes co-created by Media Justice and two BOLT Program grant partners to showcase the impact of their project and the Internet on communities worldwide.
BOLT empowers technologists, researchers, and social changemakers to develop innovative solutions for global Internet connectivity. Through BOLT Amplify, we listen to the grantees’ voices, exploring their journeys and visions for a future where everyone is connected.
Episode 1: Connecting Schools, Empowering Communities with Kenya Education Network (KENET)
In the first episode, we travel to Kenya to meet the Kenya Education Network (KENET). Their project leverages existing infrastructure to extend affordable high-speed Internet to rural schools, hospitals, and libraries. This episode highlights the importance of Internet access, particularly amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic when remote learning became essential. We’ll learn how KENET’s project bridges the digital divide by providing educational resources, e-government services, and opportunities for local rural communities.
Episode 2: Long-Range Solutions for Sparse Communities with Instituto Nupef
Our second episode takes us to Brazil, where Instituto Nupef is on a mission to bring connectivity to low-density communities, especially in the Amazon rainforest. This episode explores the challenges faced by indigenous populations and traditional communities who lack Internet access. We’ll discover how Nupef utilizes cutting-edge wireless technologies to overcome vast distances and empower these communities to become environmental stewards and advocates for their rights.
Episode 3: Empowering Grantees, Amplifying Voices with Media Justice
The final episode features a reflection by Media Justice, the team who co-created these soundscapes with the BOLT grantees. We’ll delve into their innovative training process, where grantees learn storytelling and audio recording techniques to share their experiences. This episode explores the importance of empowering communities to tell their stories, redefine innovation on their terms, and build a future where their voices are heard.
BOLT Amplify is a testament to the power of collaboration. By working together, we can bridge the digital divide, ensure equitable access to information, and create a more connected world for all.
Learn more about the BOLT grant program at https://isoc.pub/BOLT
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