Welcome to the Living Open Source Foundation!

Who We Are

The Living Open Source Foundation (L.O.S.F) is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering the growth of local economies by empowering individuals through education and expertise in Open Source Software (OSS). Established in 2019 and headquartered in Lusaka, Zambia, L.O.S.F focuses on providing accessible and affordable training in OSS, particularly in regions with limited access to high-quality education in Africa.

Our foundation believes that Open Source Software is more than just technology—it is a pathway to opportunity and equality. By providing education and resources, we enable individuals to develop the skills needed to participate in the global Open Source community. This participation opens doors to new career opportunities, fosters innovation, and drives economic development.

At the heart of our mission is the commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. We strive to reach regions and communities that have traditionally been underserved in the global tech economy. Our training programs are designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. We offer free or affordable courses, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to learning and growth.

Our team is a diverse group of professionals, educators, and volunteers who share a passion for Open Source and a commitment to making a difference. We work closely with local and international partners to deliver high-quality training and build sustainable Open Source communities. Our collaborations with organizations like ITGilde, the Linux Foundation, Pearson Education, and Trainlux allow us to leverage global expertise and resources to benefit local communities.

Through our events, training programs, and knowledge centers, we have made significant strides in promoting Open Source Software in Africa. Our impact is reflected in the hundreds of individuals we have trained and the vibrant local communities we have helped establish.

The Living Open Source Foundation is more than just an organization; it is a movement towards a more equitable and connected world. We invite you to join us on this journey and be a part of the change we are creating.

Our Approach

Our Approach to Achieving Our Vision and Mission

At the Living Open Source Foundation, we employ a three-pronged approach to realize our vision and mission: comprehensive education, community building, and sustainable development.

1. Comprehensive Education

  • Initial Events: Organize large on-site events to teach the basics of Open Source Software, accessible to all.
  • Advanced Training: Offer advanced programs for certifications like the Linux Foundation Certified Sysadmin.
  • Train-the-Trainer Programs: Equip local individuals to become trainers, ensuring sustainability and broader impact.

2. Community Building

  • Local Communities: Foster local groups for regular meetups and collaborative projects, promoting continuous learning and networking.
  • Knowledge Centers: Establish hubs for ongoing training and support, providing essential resources.
  • Collaborations: Partner with local enterprises, governments, and non-profits to integrate Open Source solutions into local infrastructure.

3. Sustainable Development

  • Cost Efficiency: Promote free Open Source Software to reduce financial burdens and redirect savings to critical areas.
  • Economic Growth: Enhance local expertise and stimulate economic development through high-quality education.
  • Inclusivity and Accessibility: Ensure programs are accessible to all, offering free or affordable training and resources.

Measuring Our Impact

  • Feedback and Improvement: Continuously gather feedback to refine our programs.
  • Tracking Progress: Monitor trainee progress and community growth to measure impact.
  • Long-Term Commitments: Provide ongoing support and resources to ensure sustainable development.

This holistic, inclusive approach ensures we create a lasting positive impact, empowering individuals and building a connected, equitable global Open Source community.

See Our Plan For This Year
01.

Our Mission

The mission of the Living Open Source Foundation is to stimulate local economic growth by enabling people to develop themselves as experts in Open Source Software. The foundation emphasizes that OSS is free to use, access, modify, and contribute to anyone, irrespective of race, religion, or gender. This democratization of technology is seen as a crucial element in fostering individual and community development.

02.

Our Vision

We envision a world where everyone, regardless of background, can access, contribute to, and benefit from Open Source technologies. By providing free or affordable training, we aim to create an inclusive global Open Source community that fosters economic growth and equal opportunities.

Core Principles

Accessibility

Open Source Software is free for everyone to use, which helps break down economic barriers.

Non-Discrimination

OSS does not discriminate against any race, religion, or gender.

Community Benefit

Unlike proprietary software, OSS is designed to benefit humanity rather than shareholders.

Knowledge Sharing

The foundation believes in the power of free knowledge to drive human progress and societal development.

Partners

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Join Us in Empowering Africa Through Open Source

Open Minds, Open Source: Building Tomorrow Together

The Living Open Source Foundation is dedicated to fostering open source communities across Africa, providing opportunities for professionals, unskilled individuals, and young people to learn and thrive in the digital age. By supporting our mission, you contribute to creating a brighter future where technology and collaboration unlock the potential of countless individuals. Together, we can build a more inclusive and innovative world. Your support makes a difference.

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