A distinguished alum of the Thinking by Design Program course, Benson Shoo emerges as a beacon of applied innovation and creative problem-solving. Enrolling in Thinking by Design in 2019 at Mtakuja Secondary School with mentor Mussa Challa, Benson navigated abrupt changes during the COVID-19 pandemic amid his design learning. Benson’s journey is marked by a deep commitment to addressing real-world challenges and utilizing social design principles to create tangible, positive impacts.

Benson’s Design project, initiated in 2019, tackled a prevalent issue in his school’s kitchen – waste and water management. Upon closer investigation, he identified water blockages in the drainage system, causing the undesirable mixing of liquid and solid waste. While the project achieved partial implementation, it served as a launching pad for Benson’s subsequent endeavors and a testament to the practical application of design thinking in social entrepreneurship efforts.

The value derived from the design course transcended academic achievements by empowering students to navigate the complexities of implementing real-world solutions. The unique learning atmosphere in the design course fostered by his mentor, Mussa Challa, cultivated an entrepreneurial spirit, teaching him to think creatively and apply his skills in diverse ways outside of just a classroom setting. These skills became particularly valuable as everyone was abruptly forced to adapt to sudden changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design thinking, for Benson, became a way of approaching problems not merely as theoretical exercises but as opportunities for practical, impactful solutions.

Benson’s reflections on his learning in the design program highlight how the course became a catalyst for innovation, encouraging students to explore, question, and develop solutions that have meaningful implications beyond the academic realm.

Benson reflected on specific skills gained, the application of these skills in his post-course endeavors, and the lasting influence of the design program on his academic and professional journey.

Benson emphasized growing his ability to be both a leader and teammate and the practical applications of gaining these skills.

• Benson applied leadership skills in mobilizing friends to address community challenges when they were sent home during the pandemic and extended school breaks.
• Forming collaborative groups enabled a more significant impact and influence on the community. In order to foster a productive team dynamic, you have to understand how to involve everyone and make them feel included through the entire process.

The skill of asking questions became a powerful tool in crafting solutions from people’s perspectives.

• Benson quickly understood how to identify key stakeholders, ask thoughtful questions, and include relevant community leaders for problems he sought to address.
• Understanding how to gain influence and support became instrumental in creating lasting change.

During the tumultuous times of the COVID outbreak and quarantine, Benson was uniquely equipped to tackle a pressing issue in his community: youth unemployment. Drawing upon the skills honed in his design program, he embarked on a journey of entrepreneurial endeavors. With determination, he rallied his friends, and together, they embarked on a series of projects to address this challenge.

Their initiative didn’t just stop at ideation; it blossomed into tangible action. From environmental preservation efforts to volunteer work and even venturing into the world of beekeeping for income generation, Benson and his peers showcased the power of teamwork and innovation. What began as a small group’s dream soon evolved into revenue-generating businesses, making a meaningful impact on both the local economy and the environment.

Benson’s journey didn’t just end with the success of his entrepreneurial endeavors; it paved the way for remarkable opportunities and choices in his academic pursuits.

His efforts didn’t go unnoticed when he secured acceptance into the prestigious United World College. Here, his knack for problem-solving and community engagement, nurtured through his entrepreneurial ventures, played a pivotal role in shaping his academic journey.

Furthermore, Benson  was selected for a full-ride scholarship to St. Olaf in Minnesota where he is provided the opportunity to pursue his passions in both pre-med and business, setting the stage for a future brimming with promise and potential.