Uplift 15 Kenyan Women Through Entrepreneurship

We’re excited to share progress from the Microbusiness Incubator in Homa Bay, Kenya, where a new cohort of 18 adolescent mothers has successfully completed the first phase of their entrepreneurial journey. Throughout May, the participants took part in Street Business School learning modules led by a certified trainer. These sessions were designed to build their foundational skills and boost their confidence to successfully launch and sustain their small businesses.

The first module of the training played a particularly vital role in setting the stage for long-term success. Focused on building confidence and shifting mindset, this session helped the participants confront limiting beliefs and fears that may have held them back in the past. Through interactive activities and group discussion, participants explored the concept of stepping outside their comfort zones and began developing the resilience and self-belief necessary to pursue personal growth and economic independence. This confidence-building foundation is especially important given the social and economic challenges many of the women have faced.

The remaining five modules focused on core business skills and practical tools to support successful entrepreneurship. The diverse range of topics covered included:

• Conducting market research to evaluate business ideas
• Understanding basic bookkeeping and money management
• Building and retaining a customer base
• Managing risk and planning for growth

A key highlight from the sessions was the involvement of our program alumni. During the learning sessions, the cohort had the opportunity to hear directly from previous incubator graduates who shared their lived experiences as entrepreneurs including offering honest insights into both challenges and successes. This peer mentorship component added depth to the program and reinforced a sense of possibility and community among the participants.

By the end of the formal learning sessions, all 18 participants had completed the curriculum and are now eligible for startup support as they launch their micro businesses. For many, this will include receiving critical items such as produce stands and materials specific to their chosen trades.

The next phase of the incubator focuses on supporting participants as they bring their business ideas to life, including on-site visits and ongoing coaching to guide them through the early stages of implementation.

This phase is truly exciting, as we now get to see these determined women put their learning into action and begin their journey as business owners. The impact of business ownership truly extends beyond themselves and their families as it has the power to uplift entire communities.

For BBS, this program milestone also marks another important step forward in our broader goal to help address and ultimately end generational poverty through sustainable, community-driven entrepreneurship.

In closing, we wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to the board of Activate Action, our local implementation partner, for their incredible support. The board's social media campaign played a vital role in mobilising resources and expanding awareness for this program.

To the broader BBS community, thank you for your continued support in helping create real, lasting change for the women in Homa Bay.

More from Homa Bay very soon!