Joanine Ayoti Kirkwood is the Founder and CEO of Savannah Data Solutions Limited, where she
connects skilled data entry and software development professionals from Kenya with businesses in the
United States. She has a bachelor’s degree in Education from Kenyatta University – Kenya, and a Master’s
degree in English (Linguistics) from Northern Illinois University – USA.
Savannah Data Solutions was born out of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when
many businesses were closing and individuals were losing jobs. Recognizing the economic hardships
faced by young professionals in Kenya, Ayoti partnered with a contact in the US who was seeking to
establish a data entry location in Kenya. By providing qualified Kenyan professionals, Savannah Data
Solutions is able to deliver high-quality services and capitalize on the favorable exchange rate, ensuring
a strong return on investment for international clients while creating much-needed employment
opportunities.
Ayoti has diverse international experience. She served as a Liaison Officer at A Rocha Kenya, where she
successfully secured high school bursaries for underprivileged students, integrating educational
support with environmental conservation efforts. Additionally, she worked as an International Marketing
and Communication Manager at Eden Reforestation Projects, driving global outreach and sustainability
initiatives. Her commitment to impactful, community-driven projects is further demonstrated by her
role as a Fulbright FLTA alumna and Japan Foundation Scholarship recipient, experiences that have
broadened her global perspective and strategic approach.
In 2023, Ayoti also founded Wake na Vijana Initiatives, a nonprofit organization dedicated to
empowering vulnerable women and youth in Kenya through economic empowerment, capacity
building, and gender equity initiatives.