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June 04.2025

2 Minutes Read

Izesan! Founder Reflects on the Journey to Revive African Languages and Build a Sustainable Future

Smiling man in traditional attire with a modern tech-themed graphic background.

Reviving African Languages: A Personal Journey

Few ventures carry the emotional weight of restoring a cultural identity, particularly when it involves language—a vital thread connecting individuals to their heritage. This is the mission of Izesan!, an edtech app launched by Anthony Otaigbe, who was driven by personal loss: his inability to speak Esan, his ancestral tongue. Raised in the United States, he often felt disconnected from family gatherings, unable to grasp conversations embedded with cultural significance. Through his journey, he identified a profound gap in resources for learning indigenous languages, particularly for the diaspora eager to reconnect.

The Challenges of Zero Revenue

Despite a surge in downloads upon its launch in 2019, Izesan! faced crucial challenges in user retention. While many downloaded the free app, engagement quickly waned. Otaigbe reflects, "People expected perfection but didn’t want to pay for continuous improvement." This dilemma highlights a broader issue within the digital edtech landscape, where free services often face immense pressure to deliver an exceptional experience without a revenue model in place. The frustrations voiced by users have only compounded Otaigbe's obstacles, as he personally invests time and resources with no financial return.

Building a Sustainable Model

As Izesan! continues to evolve, the emphasis now pivots towards devising a sustainable model. Following the initial backlash, Otaigbe aims to not only enhance the app's offerings but also explore viable monetization strategies. This experience underscores a crucial lesson for startups: balancing user expectations with sustainable business practices is essential for long-term growth and viability. Looking ahead, Otaigbe is determined to refine Izesan!, transforming it into a revenue-generating platform while preserving its core mission of cultural education and identity restoration.

Conclusion

The story of Izesan! is not just about an app; it embodies the struggle to reclaim and celebrate African languages in a modern context. As Otaigbe forges ahead, he represents a growing trend of entrepreneurs committed to preserving cultural heritage through technology. His journey emphasizes the importance of resilience and innovation in nurturing identity through language.

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Izesan! Founder Reflects on the Journey to Revive African Languages and Build a Sustainable Future

Reviving African Languages: A Personal Journey

The Challenges of Zero Revenue

Building a Sustainable Model

Conclusion

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