Shaping Futures:
How Training Empowers Women in Kisumu
In Kisumu, Kenya, many young women,often single mothers are striving for economic independence and social recognition. The stories of Sheryl Ombago and Maureen Kaviti spark hope throughout the Make Me Smile Community. Both women have built more self-determined futures through vocational training. But their journeys are not isolated cases, they reflect the harsh reality and the spark of hope experienced by many young, often single mothers in Kisumu, Kenya.
„This journey has not only improved my technical knowledge, but also boosted my confidence as an entrepreneur and a problem solver. I’m excited about the future and committed to using my skills to bring light and hope to my community. Thank you so much Make Me Smile“
Maureen Kaviti, a 26-year-old single mother, had fewer chances of a self-sustaining life due to limited economic opportunities in the informal sector or underpaid jobs. Through her training as a solar technician, a completely new and future-oriented career path opened up for her. The course not only taught technical skills, practical application, and safety measures, but also included life skills, health awareness measures, and entrepreneurship. Through the combination of knowledge, Maureen learned to walk her path with confidence.
Thanks to her extraordinary dedication, she was trained by Make Me Smile Kenya to become a master trainer and now supports other women in gaining economic independence in a male-dominated field.
Sheryl Ombago, also a young mother, managed to break free from societal expectations placed on women with limited financial means by training as a beautician. The course not only fulfilled her dream job – it helped her find her voice. Through the mentoring program, Sheryl gained greater self-confidence and now walks through life with renewed strength. But Sheryl already dreams even bigger: she plans to open her beauty salon offering educational training to support young people with the same opportunity she once received.
„When I first joined the program, I was shy, reserved, and hesitant to speak in front of others, but deep inside, I had a fierce determination to change my life and the lives of those around me.“
Make Me Smile’s vocational training programs offer a new perspective to those in seemingly hopeless situations. But these programs need support. The loss of USAID funding has had a noticeable impact, especially on the financing of the exams by the Kenya National Industrial Training Authority and the distribution of business start-up kits.
Both components are essential to complete the training: the exam enables graduates to work officially in their profession, significantly increasing their employment prospects. The start-up kits, in turn, provide the basic tools and materials needed to begin working immediately.
Help women
build a self-determined and confident future:
- With €52, you cover the exam fee for one woman and boost her chances of finding employment or advancing professionally.
- With €98, you provide a business start-up kit – for example, a sewing machine, hairdressing supplies, or technical equipment.