In 1979, I walked into a Peace Corps office in Washington, DC and said I would like to work in Africa. I explained that I was studying business economics and had an interest in computers and information technology. I thought those would be useful skills for work in Africa. They smiled and told me that there were no computers in Africa, but I could apply anyway. When I arrived in Kenya in 1983 as a volunteer in the small business sector, I found that Kenya could really use some more technology to spur development, regardless of the status of its infrastructure, or lack thereof. Kenya needed support for its strong entrepreneurial spirit. However, I was concerned that the Kenyan government regulations and controls then in place would impede the progress of technology development, creativity and indigenous entrepreneurs. From the state of things in the business sector, it seemed clear to me that Kenya needed free and open markets to enable innovation and investment in technology and other useful things. In fact, all countries do! Simply put, my work as a business advisor in Kenya was made much more difficult by the government controls in place on those businesses. What to do? I left Kenya in 1985 and headed for law school back in the USA to study the laws, regulations and policies that impact business creativity and technology. I pursued that interest for 30 years until a neuromuscular disorder forced me to retire from active legal practice. The good news for Kenya is that the Kenyan people have embraced everday communications technology and online services. Kenya is a leader in Africa in this regard. Now, I'm determined to explore all aspects of technology for improving the lives of those with disabilities. For me, Kenya is an inspiration for what is possible with technology for all. If you have ideas or know of cool technology that addresses access and improves the lives of disabld people, I would love to hear about it. Thank you!
Listed skills include Intellectual Property, Licensing, Mergers And Acquisitions, Trademarks, and 12 others.