New beginnings: Tech access and training helps single mom go back to school
Lexington, Ky. (February 17, 2026) - Akua Buchanan, a single mother from Lexington, Ky., set out to find new education and career opportunities to build a better life for herself and her son. Her challenge was knowing where to begin.
About a month ago, Buchanan’s mother learned about a promising opportunity in Lexington that could help set her on a path toward a brighter future.
Connected Nation (CN), AT&T, the city of Lexington’s Black and Williams Neighborhood Center, the Georgetown Street Neighborhood Association, and the Marafiki Center partnered on January 21 to host a device distribution event where 120 laptops were provided to those who took digital skills training classes offered by CN.
“I’ve been a single mom for four years,” said Buchanan. “After graduating high school, I took a break from school, but now I am ready to get back into it. That’s why I am here today! To get a computer, learn more digital skills, and start the process of applying to colleges to get my degree.”
During the event, participants took part in a three-hour digital skills training, ensuring everyone who received a laptop left feeling confident using their new device. The training included three topics: device basics, internet basics, and cybersecurity.
“I learned a lot more than I thought I would during the class,” said Buchanan. “I learned how to save passwords, manage Microsoft Office, how to create strong passwords, and how to better protect myself online. I’m not really good with computers, so this was a great refresher for me. I am very thankful!”
This program is giving people like Buchanan the opportunity for a fresh start, not just for themselves, but for their families. With access to a computer at home, she can now research educational options that best fit her lifestyle and schedule, and so much more.
“This will definitely have a positive impact on my life because before this computer I just had my cell phone,” she said. “And there are so many things that I couldn't do just on my phone. I would highly recommend this program to anyone who is looking to learn more about how to use a computer or just advance their lives in general.”