Our Story
Vivian, Saajan, Joseph, and Sophia, met during the Duke-Makerere University Biomedical Engineering Fellowship, an 8 week cultural engineering fellowship at Makerere University, where we were tasked with identifying a problem and inventing a solution for Uganda’s largest national referral hospital. Observing local health workers we quickly realized pre-term hypothermia, especially during transit, was one of Uganda’s largest health problems. Our summer led to the creation of NeoNest, our low-cost transport infant warmer, and the start of Che Innovations. Today our team has expanded from our 4 founders to more than 8 employed Ugandan engineers, regulatory, and finance professionals.
Human-Centered Design
Throughout our design journey, our team has interviewed and incorporated feedback from Ugandan OBGYNS, ambulance workers, neonatal intensive care unit nurses, and local health workers. We are committed to developing a local health solution designed by local health workers for Low and Middle Income health contexts.
Our Manufacturing Facility
Located in Kamwokya, Uganda we’ve recently purchased our first office and manufacturing facility. Our space is equipped with sewing machines and other technology to begin expanding production of the NeoNests and Che Nests.
Global Award Recognition
Our team has won 1st place at 3 major global health technology competitions for our design of the NeoNest. We’ve been recognized internationally by the Rice 360 Global Health Technologies Institute, the Duke Global Health Institute, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Royal Academy of Engineering in London, and the Ugandan Ministry of Health.
