Journal

Education Opens Doors: Success Stories of Young Women in Rural Kenya

In celebration of International Women's Day, we honour all the women and girls who have demonstrated courage and determination in their lives — young women in whom the power of change burns brightly.

Especially in rural Kenya, girls and women continue to face significant challenges that put them at a disadvantage compared to boys. Poverty, societal attitudes, and crisis situations often hinder girls' access to education. These structural obstacles not only limit educational opportunities but also restrict overall
prospects, perpetuating the cycle of poverty. Achieving gender equality in education is key to building a fairer and more prosperous future.

Through education, girls gain access to better employment opportunities, and their standing in society is simultaneously strengthened. Empowering women through economic opportunities, entrepreneurship, and active participation in the workforce not only reduces gender disparities — it fundamentally transforms
society and the economy. When women succeed, entire communities thrive, ultimately benefiting everyone.

In 2020, we established the Kalevala Training Center in the small village of Makongeni, which offers free education to girls and young women through three programs: Computer Packages, Salon & Hairdressing course, and Tailoring and Dressmaking course. In honor of International Women's Day, we interviewed three graduates from the Kalevala Training Center to learn how education has impacted their lives.

My Journey to Becoming a Hairdressing Entrepren

"I am the second oldest child in a family of eight. After finishing primary school, my family struggled to support my education, so I never had the opportunity to begin secondary schooling. My parents believed that education was the foundation for the future, but due to financial constraints, I was unable to
continue. However, we kept exploring our options until we found the Kalevala Training Center. I remember the first time we visited KTC—it felt like, perhaps, everything was finally possible.”

“That day marked the beginning of my journey. I studied in salon and hairdressing program at the center, and today I am self-employed as a hairdressing entrepreneur. I run a small rented space where I offer hairdressing services and sell related products. The path of entrepreneurship hasn’t been easy, but despite the challenges, I have gradually managed to grow my business, and I have even been able to provide employment for two other young people who have also completed hairdressing training. The positive feedback from my clients motivates me to continue. I have also discovered that as an entrepreneur, you need to know a bit of everything, which is why I have gradually expanded my skills to include
makeup services."

Sofia Nanzugu, 22 years old, KTC Alumnae

Employment Through Digital Skills

"I have always believed that expanding my skill set in various areas is crucial. I believe that this is the best way to achieve stable financial independence. I also knew that digital skills are key to employment in today's world. I was extremely excited when I learned that the Kalevala Training Center offers free
IT training for young people. I immediately decided to sign up for the next available group. Before that, I had only used a computer a handful of times. During the training, I delved into Microsoft software and learned how to navigate the internet. Additionally, I learned how to print and make copies of
documents."

"During my studies, I wasn’t entirely sure how I would utilize these skills, but shortly after graduating, I realized there was a strong demand for digital competence in the job market. I am currently working as a credit specialist at an investment company. I use the computer skills I acquired at the Kalevala Training Center every single day. From data management and bookkeeping tasks to drafting official documents and printing and copying, digital skills have become an integral part of my daily life."

Charity Mueni, 26 years old, KTC Alumnae

Fashion Entrepreneurship Brings Financial Stability to the Whole Family

"My father passed away when I had just started high school, which quickly led to the end of my formal education. My mother was unable to pay for all of our school fees. I stayed home for two years, after which I got married and had a child. It was a difficult period, but I did not give up. I decided to continue seeking opportunities."

"I heard about the Kalevala Training Center from a friend and decided to enroll. I completed a fashion qualification at KTC and also participated in an entrepreneurship program. Today, I run my own tailor shop, which enables me to take care of my family. I offer custom tailoring services, and my shop also sells ready-made products. I have gained several regular customers who, for example, order school uniforms for their children."

Maimunah Atiba, 25 years old, KTC Alumnae

Kalevala Training Center Empowers Women Through Education

Education transforms girls' lives and is invaluable to them. It offers a unique opportunity to challenge and break down harmful gender stereotypes that often limit their potential. At the same time, it provides all young people with the knowledge and skills needed to build their own future.

By investing in the education of girls and women, we invest in the well-being of the entire community. Educated women not only improve their own living conditions, but also bring new perspectives, promote health, strengthen economic independence, and have a positive impact on social justice. Every educated woman is a step toward a more equal and sustainable society.