SES and WPDI Win Changing Lives Award, Connecting Youth to Digital Education in South Sudan and Uganda
Cape Town, November 13, 2025 – SES and International artist and humanitarian, Forest Whitaker’s, Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative (WPDI) won the Changing Lives Award at the Africa Tech Festival for their collaborative work in bringing high-speed satellite internet to WPDI’s Community Learning Centers in South Sudan and Uganda, connecting thousands of young people to digital education.
The Changing Lives Award is dedicated to recognizing and honoring organizations and initiatives that are committed to improving lives across the continent.
By improving digital access using the power of satellite technology, SES is providing WPDI learning center trainees with the resources needed to become drivers of positive change in their communities and beyond.
The partnership started in June 2025, providing centers with the connectivity required to ensure that Africa’s future leaders can acquire the digital literacy and leadership skills and resources needed to drive transformation in their communities. With access to digital education, virtual exchange programs, and entrepreneurship training, WPDI learners are better prepared to help build a brighter future.
“This recognition underscores the transformative power of satellite technology in bridging the digital divide and creating real opportunities for young people in underserved regions,” said SES CEO Adel Al-Saleh. “We are honored to support WPDI’s mission to promote peace and change lives in Africa.”
“Education is the cornerstone of lasting peace,” said international artist and humanitarian, Forest Whitaker. “At WPDI, we harness the power of technology to open doors for young people affected by conflict and instability. By equipping them with knowledge and resources, we empower youth to shape their own paths and become catalysts for positive change in their communities.”
To learn more about the program, click here.
For further information please contact:
Steven Lott
Communications
Tel. +352 710 725 500
[email protected]
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About SES
At SES, we believe that space has the power to make a difference. That’s why we design space solutions that help governments protect, businesses grow, and people stay connected—no matter where they are. With integrated multi-orbit satellites and our global terrestrial network, we deliver resilient, seamless connectivity and the highest quality video content to those shaping what’s next. Following our Intelsat acquisition, we now offer more than 100 years of combined global industry leadership—backed by a track record of bringing innovation “firsts” to market. As a trusted partner to customers and the global space ecosystem, SES is driving impact that goes far beyond coverage. The company is headquartered in Luxembourg and listed on Paris and Luxembourg stock exchanges (Ticker: SESG). Further information is available at: www.ses.com
About WPDI
The Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative (WPDI) is a non-governmental organization with an international scope and reach, committed to fostering peace and resilience by disseminating skills and promoting climate-sensitive and sustainable development in countries and places affected by violence, poverty, environmental disruption, and marginalization. In Africa, Europe, as well as Latin and North America, WPDI develops a wide range of programs aimed at training and supporting underprivileged individuals and groups, with a particular focus on youth and women, enabling them to become empowered as mediators, educators, entrepreneurs, and leaders, fostering positive transformation within their communities and beyond. To achieve its objectives, WPDI works with the communities to design and implement integrated programs in the four areas of Peacebuilding, Livelihood, Health and Well-being, and Sports. WPDI was founded in 2012 by the artist, social activist, and UNESCO Special Envoy for Peace, Forest Whitaker.
To learn more, visit www.wpdi.org.
