• Technology

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

August 26, 2024

Nigerian Teen Invents Glasses To Help Visually-Impaired People Walk Safely

The teen hopes to secure investors or government funding to produce more of his glasses.

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Khalifa Aminu, an 18-year-old from Nigeria, has created a pair of revolutionary glasses that can help visually impaired people.

The sensory glasses can help those with sight issues walk safely by themselves. According to Afrotech, Aminu told DailyNews24 TV that he had created several things, from bomb detectors to automatic water sprays. However, his latest product grew from a concern for the people in his community.

“The glasses, it is used to help the blind. It was tested by a blind man, and it impressed him,” he said, as reported by the news outlet. “The blind man suggested four things, and I know a lack of material will hinder me. He suggested a wireless switch, smaller parts, and black lenses. This is what he said he needs, and he will use it if they are implemented.”

In an interview posted on TikTok, he shared that many in his hometown struggle with sight, leading him to invent a product that could ease their daily lives.

@dw_the77percent Khalifa Aminu from Kano State has invented a remarkable device called a blind eye sensor. This device helps people who are visually impaired move around without needing a stick. We spoke with him to learn more about his invention! #technology #technologynews #invention #inventions #nigeria #nigerian #nigeriatiktok #nigeriatiktok🇳🇬🇳🇬🇳🇬 #nigerians ♬ vlog, chill out, calm daily life(1370843) – SUNNY HOOD STUDIO

“I grew up in an area where there’s visually impaired people, and I understand what they’re going through,” shared the teenager to the 77 Percent. “This is why I began the process for a technology-based solution for them.” 

According to the video, the glasses would allow visually impaired people to forego a walking stick. The product reportedly uses ultrasonic and infrared sensors to detect when objects are near or coming toward the wearer. It activates an alarm to inform users of incoming objects or persons.

Moreover, Aminu seeks support from investors and the government to improve his invention. In the meantime, he remains dedicated to bringing the product to life and encourages other inventors to keep going as well.

“My advice to young innovators is to use their knowledge to create something, even without waiting for government support,” he said. “This can eventually lead to establishing a company that benefits the community. My dream is to get support of a large factory so that I can have a staff working under me, collaborating to advance our knowledge and create technological devices for local use and export.”

According to AIT, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities shared in June that they have reached out to Aminu. They plan to learn more about his invention and test its functionality soon.

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• Food

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

August 26, 2024

Kevin Johnson, NBA Player Turned Sacramento Mayor Expands Soul Food Chain To Detroit

Fixins was first established in Johnson's Oak Park neighborhood in Sacramento.

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Former NBA player Kevin Johnson has officially brought Fixins Soul Kitchen to Detroit. The professional athlete and former mayor of Sacramento recently opened the Motor City location of his soul food chain.

Johnson held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Aug. 23 to celebrate the new restaurant, which is located in Detroit’s Paradise Valley. Local community members, such as City Council member Mary Sheffield, also attended the event. The grand opening featured a diverse staff and restaurant aesthetic that paid homage to Black culture and history.

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A post shared by Donny Wilson |📍Detroit Foodie. 🎥Filmmaker. Writer. (@donnylb)

Its flagship restaurant opened in Sacramento’s Oak Park neighborhood, Johnson’s hometown, in 2019. The menu upholds traditional soul food delights, ranging from chicken and waffles to deviled eggs and fried green tomatoes. Its’ Detroit location expands the chain to four restaurants, with others placed in Tusla and Los Angeles.

While traveling the country for his NBA schedule, Johnson recognized a need for quality soul food spots. He sought to create a place that blended home cooking with elevated dining. The multifaceted entrepreneur started the food business with his wife, Michelle, to showcase their passion for soul food and the restaurant experience.

“Kevin grew up with soul food being the connective tissue of the broader Johnson family,” explained the restaurant’s website. “BBQs and reunions always featured Grandma Glady’s famous peach cobbler and competitions around who made the best collard greens or potato salad. This restaurant is an homage to this amazing African American family and Johnson’s broader network of friends and associates by featuring all of their best recipes and family favorites.”

As for its original location, its communal impact remains a top priority. It hopes to become a TRUE zero-waste facility and partner with homeless assistance organizations to fulfill these goals. Moreover, they work with disadvantaged youth and are second-chance employers to uplift the community further.

Fixins’ Detroit restaurant promotes this same philosophy while embracing the city’s place in Black history and establishing itself across this new, diverse community; the food chain continues to grow.

RELATED CONTENT: TechConneXt Summit: Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson Talks Urban Cities 3.0