International Women’s Day holds a special place in our hearts at Business for Better Society, and what better way to mark this significant occasion than with the graduation ceremony for the latest three cohorts of our microbusiness initiative in Homa Bay, Kenya. This initiative stands as a testament to our commitment to fostering positive change in the lives of women, particularly those impacted by HIV/AIDS, and striving towards the end of generational poverty among this highly stigmatized segment of the population.
In partnership with Activate Action, all of us have worked tirelessly to empower women in the region, resulting in the establishment of 140 new women-owned businesses. These businesses not only provide economic opportunities but also serve as beacons of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
The graduation ceremony symbolized the culmination of months of hard work and dedication on the part of these remarkable women. Through the Street Business School business modules, they transformed their business ideas into tangible ventures, supported by start-up grants and specialised coaching to navigate the challenging start-up phase.
The day was organised by Activate Action and filled with joy and celebration as speeches were delivered, certificates of achievement were presented, cakes were cut, and dancing ensued. It was a moment of pride and recognition for each woman’s journey and accomplishments.
As the incubator transitions into a new phase, the focus shifts to the development of an alumni professional women’s association. This association aims to provide ongoing learning opportunities tailored to small business owners, facilitate networking, and emphasise the importance of collaboration in business growth. Additionally, we will continue to offer support in identifying further funding opportunities available to women entrepreneurs in Kenya.
We are immensely proud of the 140 women-led businesses launched through this initiative, and we are eager to see what the future holds for these determined women. Their resilience and determination serve as an inspiration to us all, and we are honoured to be part of their journey towards success.
At Business for Better Society, we remain committed to creating lasting change and empowering individuals to achieve their full potential. Together, we can build a brighter for all.
📸 One of the graduating cohorts from the incubator.