Girls Rise Nairobi

The "Girls Rise Nairobi" initiative by Inua Kike Organization focuses on empowering adolescent girls and young women in Baba Dogo, Nairobi, who have survived or are at risk of gender-based violence (GBV). Recognizing the multifaceted challenges these young women face, the program aims to provide them with the tools and support necessary to rebuild their lives and achieve economic independence.

Central to the program is a comprehensive mentorship framework that pairs participants with experienced female entrepreneurs. These mentors guide the young women through the intricacies of starting and managing small businesses, offering insights into market dynamics, customer relations, and financial management.

In addition to mentorship, the program offers startup capital to help participants launch income-generating activities such as selling second-hand clothes (mtumba), operating beauty salons, or running food vending stalls. This financial support is crucial in enabling the women to apply their newly acquired skills in real-world settings.

Workshops on business development, marketing strategies, and customer service are regularly conducted to enhance the participants' entrepreneurial competencies. These sessions are tailored to address the unique challenges faced by women in informal settlements, ensuring relevance and applicability.

The program also emphasizes the importance of community support. Regular group meetings provide a platform for participants to share experiences, challenges, and successes, fostering a sense of solidarity and mutual encouragement.

To address the psychological impact of GBV, the initiative incorporates counseling services and mental health support. These services aim to help participants heal from past traumas and build resilience for future challenges.

Through "Girls Rise Nairobi," Inua Kike Organization is not only facilitating economic empowerment but also promoting social reintegration and personal growth among young women affected by GBV.