When Edwin, 26, first set foot in an inABLE computer lab, he felt lost. “Everyone was already typing and browsing. I just sat there, confused,” he recalls. But that moment was the turning point. It marked the beginning of a journey of empowerment, a transformation that would shape his identity, purpose, and future. 

Born in Nairobi with full vision, Edwin’s life took an unexpected turn when he began experiencing eye problems at the age of eight. His eyesight continued to deteriorate over a span of four to six years, and in 2013, he was confirmed blind due to optic nerve failure. Adjusting to mainstream education with a visual disability proved daunting, especially for a student from a humble background. School became a daily challenge, and accessing learning materials was impossible. “I was living in the dark,” he says. Without the right support, his dreams seemed out of reach. 

Recognizing the need for specialized support, Edwin transferred to Thika Primary School for the Blind. That is where he encountered inABLE, and everything began to change. Although he had never touched a computer before, he found himself in a digital world full of possibilities. With guidance from inABLE’s instructors and the freedom to explore, he taught himself how to use assistive technologies like screen readers, unlocking a new way to learn and connect. 

During his free lab time, Edwin started exploring music tutorials on YouTube. This was not just a casual interest. From an early age, he had an innate sense of rhythm. He would tap on desks and jerrycans, mimicking drums. But now, with access to technology, he could deepen that passion. Encouraged by his brother, a pianist, and supported by a donor who gifted him a small keyboard, he began learning to play real instruments. Today, he plays piano, drums, guitar, and is learning the saxophone. “The piano is my favorite. I can play it for 12 hours straight,” he says. “You just sit, relax, and let your fingers move.” 

Edwin’s mastery of screen readers and assistive tech allowed him to excel in college, even though it lacked inclusive infrastructure. Armed with confidence and skills, he turned his passion into purpose: training others, performing in churches, and growing his YouTube channel to reach and inspire young persons with disabilities. 

Today, Edwin has come full circle. He is back at inABLE not as a learner, but as a mentor. Teaching music to blind and visually impaired students, he shares more than just technique. He builds confidence, promotes independence, and helps students realize their potential. “Too many persons with disabilities finish school and disappear,” he explains. “But I want to help them keep their talents alive.” 

His work reflects inABLE’s core values of innovation, empowerment, and positive impact. With every lesson, he is ensuring that the next generation of young people with disabilities is seen, heard, and celebrated. 

Today, his story is a powerful reminder of what becomes possible when inclusive innovation is paired with human determination. 

“When I see them playing, singing, and thriving, I feel proud,” Edwin says. “One day, I will hear them perform and say, ‘I taught them.’ That will be my greatest achievement.” 

Written by Faith Rimas, Communications Assistant, inABLE.