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Aaron Friedland
Founder & CEO at Simbi & Simbi Foundation
Aaron Friedland is a multifaceted entrepreneur, educator, and philanthropist who has made significant contributions in the fields of education, literacy, and sustainable development. As the Founder and CEO of Simbi, he leads an innovative literacy platform aimed at helping learners develop a love for reading.1
Professional Background
Aaron is also the Founder and Executive Director of the Simbi Foundation, a non-governmental organization that collaborates with the UNHCR to build BrightBox Solar Power Classrooms. These classrooms support approximately 6,000 learners per installation and generate revenue to scale their model while providing passive income for the community.1
Academic and Research Pursuits
Friedland's academic background is impressive:
- He holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics and Economic Development from McGill University.1
- He completed a Master of Arts in Applied Economics and Development Economics at the University of British Columbia.1
- He is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Development Economics and International Development, also at the University of British Columbia.1
His research focuses on econometrics, specifically exploring the intersection of economics and education.2
Achievements and Recognition
Aaron Friedland has been recognized as a National Geographic Explorer.2 His research-based interventions have helped over 35,000 learners in Uganda and India improve their literacy rates.2 He is currently collaborating with the UN to bring his literacy interventions to the Bidibidi and Nakivale refugee settlements in Uganda, which together house more than 450,000 people.2
Teaching Experience
Friedland has also served as a lecturer in various capacities:
- Lecturer in Economic Development at McGill University's Bellairs campus in Barbados.1
- Lecturer in Economics at Coquitlam College.1
Through his work with Simbi, the Simbi Foundation, and his academic pursuits, Aaron Friedland continues to make significant strides in improving access to education and literacy worldwide.
