'Why I Mentor': Priscilla's Belief in Africa's Youth

Africa’s youth are ambitious, full of untapped potential, and chasing big dreams. All it takes is just one person to help them on the path to success. As a Trainer in Educate!’s livelihood bootcamps designed for youth who are out of school, I’m grateful to offer that support. 

I guide young people through a six-week journey to start businesses, improve their incomes, and gain agency. I first met Precious when she was still financially dependent on her mother. But today, she runs her own shoe business with passion. She’s moved out of her mother’s house, supports her daughter’s education, and has grown her business enough to employ someone else. It’s been incredible to witness her transformation.

Growing up in Kitui County, Kenya, I saw firsthand the challenges many youth face — poverty, high teenage pregnancy rates, and scarce job opportunities. These barriers often make it difficult to complete school, and for young women, the path is even more limited.

Educate!’s livelihood bootcamps have a 70% female participation rate. This is intentional — to show them that they are just as capable as men in running businesses. Many young women join our bootcamp believing their only future is as financially dependent housewives. Supporting them in shifting their mindsets is incredibly rewarding.

Our training — offered in Swahili — is practical, engaging, and easy to understand. As a successful beekeeper myself, I share my own sales records books to prove that what I teach works.

Many youth start new businesses immediately after the bootcamp, while others grow their existing ventures. And the impact is evident! Across multiple cohorts, youth are experiencing relative income gains of 50% - 150%+ just three to six months after participation.

Over the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and mentoring many incredible young people, including resilient single mothers, like Precious. As much as I aim to motivate them, their strength and determination continually inspire me.

It’s a privilege to share our stories with you. It means a lot to know that someone is listening.