A transformative wave of innovation and learning flooded through Mzuzu from August 6th to 8th, 2025, when 20 enthusiastic participants came for the Emerge Livelihoods AI & Data Science Bootcamp, which was co-hosted by the Segal Family Foundation. The three-day experience, themed “Empowering Communities through Technology and Education,” was more than just technical training; it was a catalyst for community impact, mentorship, and the birth of new possibilities that align with Malawi’s Vision 2063 or relevant policy frameworks, as well as underserved groups.
Building Skills, Shaping Futures: The bootcamp was organised to support Emerge Livelihoods’ aim of utilising technology and social capital for economic growth.Wangiwe Kambuzi, MD of Emerge Livelihoods, states in her introductory remarks,
“Out of over 300 candidates, you are the 20 changemakers chosen to pioneer this event; not just to learn, but to lead. This bootcamp offers a potent combination of learning, collaboration, and community impact. We intend to reach out to more youth professionals through Emerge Learn’s pilot events, and your comments will help us refine and extend our efforts.
“Today signals the start of something larger than a classroom. Whether it’s through data-driven solutions or encouraging the next generation through our school outreach, what you learn here must spread. Use this chance to create, distribute, and put this program to use; let it be the good news that transforms communities.”
According to seasoned data scientist Wiza Msuku, “AI may not replace jobs, but people who use AI will replace those who don’t.” The future belongs to those who see technology as a mentality for issue resolution and value creation, rather than merely a tool. Participants took part in hands-on courses on Python programming, predictive analytics, impact measurement, and resource optimisation.From fundamental concepts to real-world applications, the bootcamp provided learners with practical skills for navigating and contributing to the digital economy. On Day 1 and Day 2, participants investigated real-world use cases such as targeted program design, impact measurement and monitoring, predictive analysis, and resource optimisation.
Many participants, including youth and emerging professionals with a passion for community development, reported renewed confidence in their abilities to use data for social good.
“Before this bootcamp, AI seemed faraway. Now, I understand how it may help us tackle real-world challenges in our communities,” said Ellen Kalulu, one of the attendees.
Learning’s Ripple Effect:The final day saw a significant transition from learning to leadership. Participants went to a local innovation hub or research center to teach pupils about AI and data science, instilling curiosity and excitement in the future generation. Bootcamp graduates acted as mentors, transforming complicated topics into understandable teachings for young minds through interactive demos and stories.
“ Seeing the following participants light up when they wrote their first lines of code by creating variables in python reminded me why this matters,” Bright Bandafrom Innoret.
This outreach was more than simply a sign; it represented Emerge Livelihoods’ strategy of generating community-based influence through education. “I am happy to write my first lines of code,” said Ellina Kanyenda -Project and Training officer at Innoret, another participant. “We’re not just building skills; we’re building futures.”
Key Achievements: 20 participants learnt the fundamentals of AI and data science; community outreach reached an additional 20 youth professionals and students who attended the INNORET hub;a collaborative network of rising tech leaders was developed; and peer learning circles are being planned.
Diverse Perspectives, Shared Purpose: Throughout the bootcamp, participants shared unique insights inspired by their experiences, ranging from engineering, agribusiness, and business consulting grads to students and entrepreneurs in education and activism. These viewpoints improved the learning environment by encouraging peer-to-peer communication and collaborative problem solving. One notable moment was a group presentation on leveraging data science to maximise resource allocation in youth-led businesses, combining technical knowledge with grassroots innovation.
The bootcamp also emphasised gender inclusiveness, with 50 percent of attendees being women who expressed a desire to break down barriers in technology. “This space gave me the confidence to pursue data science professionally,” Elizabeth Munthali said. She also hopes to mentor other young women in her community.
Towards a Tech-Driven Livelihoods Ecosystem: The AI & Data Science Bootcamp 2025 was more than just a one-time event; it was a strategic step in Emerge Livelihoods’ path to create a vibrant ecosystem of tech-enabled leaders. The initiative paved the way for future incubation of AI-driven societal solutions by integrating education, mentoring, and outreach. The bootcamp, which received assistance from partners such as the Segal Family Foundation and outreach and awareness partner (Innoret Hub), as well as media coverage from outlets such as MBC, Hosanna, and TIMES, helped to spread the message that technology can and should be used for inclusive development.
“The AI & Data Science Bootcamp 2025 contributes directly to Malawi’s digital inclusion and youth empowerment goals. The bootcamp’s community engagement component is also consistent with national objectives for inclusive education and innovation-driven growth.” – Dr. Russel Chidya, Team Leader/CEO of Innoret.
Wiza Msuku, Facilitator Insight:
“Artificial intelligence is revolutionising industries around the world. Understanding its fundamentals is no longer optional; it is required for anyone wishing to harness its power. However, beyond technological abilities, ethical and responsible AI is critical to guaranteeing long-term influence. Let us create communities that are both technologically smart and values-driven.”
Looking Ahead: As participants return to their communities, they bring not only certificates, but also a renewed sense of purpose.
“Emerge Livelihoods opens its doors, particularly the Computer Lab, to encourage peer learning circles and maintain outreach to schools. The bootcamp may have lasted three days, but its impact will be felt well beyond,” noted by Tommy Banks.
In the words of Jonathan Nandolo, Programs Director at Emerge Livelihoods, says, “This is how we build a future by empowering people with knowledge, connecting them through purpose, and inspiring them to lead change.”To learn more about Emerge Livelihoods and upcoming initiatives, visit emergelivelihoods.org or follow us on social media.
