Unlocking potential: the remarkable rise of EduBolt
September 28, 2023
Bryan Youssef, a 22-year-old medical student, embarked on a transformative journey when he founded EduBolt, an ed-tech startup born out of his personal struggles with the traditional learning experience.
Created by youth for youth in 2021, EduBolt is a platform that connects students with qualified tutors for preparatory sessions or one-on-one sessions at affordable prices, offering learning opportunities anytime, anywhere. The vision behind EduBolt was to revolutionize education, and Bryan's passion for this endeavor was evident from the outset.
Through Youth Leadership Programme (YLP INC), Bryan and EduBolt received significant procurement support valued at $5,000. This support proved to be a game-changer, providing them with the essential tools to develop the first Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool in Lebanon and the wider region. These technological resources enabled them to make substantial progress on their project.
Moreover, the YLP INC played a pivotal role in their journey by offering valuable training and mentoring sessions, particularly in marketing and sales. These newfound skills had a remarkable impact on their project, resulting in an astounding increase in sales of approximately 110% within just six months during the incubation program.
Bryan emphasizes that UNDP’s financial support empowered them with a profound sense of confidence and trust. This trust extended beyond UNDP and resonated with other stakeholders, ultimately benefiting their venture. Bryan's story is a testament as to how strategic seed funding allowed them to sow the seeds of opportunity, yielding returns that exceeded their expectations.
However, the success story of EduBolt is not just about financial gains. It's also about the positive ripple effect it created. Bryan's initiative generated numerous full-time and part-time job opportunities for youth, with the startup now boasting a workforce of 70 full-time employees, in addition to 210 freelancers. This recent surge in sales has further highlighted the opportunity to create even more full and part-time employment opportunities due to EduBolt's continued growth. Bryan's venture has not only empowered young individuals to secure meaningful employment but has also opened doors for tutors in the gig economy.
Bryan Youssef's journey with EduBolt is an inspiring example of how determination, innovation, and strategic support can lead to extraordinary success. Beyond financial stability, EduBolt has become a beacon of hope for Lebanon, showcasing the potential for positive change and community impact through entrepreneurship.