Kadzo’s journey began in the small village of Mtomondoni Mtwapa, where she was situated after dropping out of school due to an early pregnancy. At just 19 years old, she was a single mother with an uncertain future. Her days felt repetitive, burdened by the weight of her responsibilities and the limited opportunities available to her. One day, a Community Health Promoter (CHP) spotted her. This encounter became a turning point in Kadzo’s life. The CHP introduced her to the Binti Shupavu project, which is designed to empower young mothers by providing them with the skills and knowledge to reshape their futures.
Although hesitant at first, Kadzo couldn’t ignore the promise of a brighter future for herself and her child. Kadzo found solace and inspiration in the project. She was particularly drawn to sessions on goal setting, personal health and hygiene, the importance of education, budgeting and savings, and decision-making skills. These weren’t just lessons; they were lifelines, teaching her how to be a better mother, daughter, and community member, and how to make healthier choices for her future. For Kadzo, these skills were the building blocks of a new life. In addition to life skills training, Kadzo participated in vocational skills training, learning how to make soap, detergents, and shampoo. She chose these skills because there was an available market for these products enabling her to quickly start earning money to support herself and her child.
Through her determination and the support of the project, Kadzo was offered a full scholarship at St. Joseph Vocational Training College (VTC) in Mtwapa to study Food and Beverage. The course was not only marketable but also aligned with the hospitality-driven economy of Kilifi County, a popular tourist destination. Balancing her studies and motherhood was challenging, but Kadzo was resilient. She was fortunate to receive accommodation and meals for both herself and her child, allowing her to focus on her education during the week and visit her family on weekends. Graduation day was a moment of triumph for Kadzo and her peers. They celebrated with skits, dances, and poems, their joy palpable as they received their certificates and badges. The presence of her peers, mother, county representatives, and other project representatives made the day even more special. It was a milestone that marked not just the end of a project, but the beginning of a promising future.
Following her graduation, Kadzo immediately joined the VTC for a six-month course. During a cluster meeting in November, she shared her success story with the county health management team and other guests, who were amazed by her resilience and determination. At that time, Kadzo was on an internship, eager to gain more experience in her field. Kadzo’s goals are clear. After her internship, she hopes to work in local hotels to gain further experience. Eventually, she aims to work in major hotels, continually improving her skills and possibly becoming a mentor and trainer. Currently, Kadzo is working full-time in a nearby restaurant and runs her soap-making business during her free time, with assistance from her family members, whom she has mentored. Her story of overcoming challenges has made her a role model for other adolescent girls and young people in her community. Her peers, who had dropped out when they joined the VTC, now regret not persevering and admire her for her bravery and determination. One of the most striking aspects of Kadzo’s story is her persistence. During her attachment, she couldn’t afford fare and walked seven kilometers every day to get to her training. Despite the physical and emotional challenges, she remained steadfast and completed her attachment successfully.
Kadzo’s remarkable transformation exemplifies the profound impact that empowerment programs can have on individuals and communities. Through the support and resources provided by PS Kenya’s Binti Shupavu project, Kadzo has become a beacon of hope and a role model for young mothers facing similar challenges. Her journey highlights the importance of perseverance, education, and community support in overcoming adversity and building a promising future. As Kadzo continues to thrive and inspire those around her, her story stands as a testament to the power of resilience and the positive change that can arise from targeted intervention and unwavering determination.
