Girls for the future Project

Introduction

Sharon's story is one of determination, resilience, and empowerment. At 25, Sharon faced significant challenges, including an unplanned pregnancy that disrupted her educational path. However, through her involvement with the Girls for the Future Project, she found an alternative way to secure a future for herself and her family. This case study outlines her journey from apprenticeship to business ownership, highlighting the transformative impact of skill acquisition and support from various organizations.

Background

In January 2021, Sharon enrolled in the Women Enterprise Program, part of the Girls for the Future Project. The project aims to provide young women with the skills and resources they need to achieve economic independence. Sharon, unable to attend college due to her circumstances, embraced this opportunity to grow professionally.

Sharon’s program included six months of life skills training, where she focused on beauty therapy and barbering. This foundational training was followed by a three-month industrial attachment, where she gained practical experience. By October 2021, Sharon had completed her training, passing the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) exams and officially graduating from the program.

Determined to advance her skills, Sharon worked in various beauty salons in Kisumu and Homa Bay. Despite earning modest commissions, she was disciplined in saving money to purchase essential salon equipment. Her vision was clear—she wanted to establish her beauty shop and become self-sufficient.

Sharon’s entrepreneurial aspirations were further supported when she received additional training through the Kenya Youth Empowerment Opportunities Program (KYEOP). This training focused on business management and record-keeping, essential skills for any aspiring entrepreneur. In addition, Sharon received a Ksh. 20,000 start-up capital grant, which enabled her to open her beauty shop in Katito town in February 2024.

Conclusion

Sharon’s entrepreneurial success has had a significant impact not only on her life but also on her family. She is now able to support her 4-year-old child, paying for kindergarten fees and covering household expenses. In addition, she assists her younger sister, who is currently pursuing her college education. Sharon’s story does not end here—she plans to expand her business to include a barbering shop, create employment opportunities for others, and eventually move to a larger business premises.

Reflecting on her journey, Sharon expresses gratitude for the support she received from the Mango Tree and their donors. Her experience serves as a powerful reminder of the value of skills training and empowerment programs for young women. “In life, you cannot predict how your destiny will unfold,” she advises. “Girls should take seriously any skills they can acquire to help them in the future.”

Sharon’s success is a testament to the transformative power of education, mentorship, and community support in helping individuals overcome adversity and achieve financial independence. Her story encourages other young women to pursue skill acquisition as a means to secure their future.