Fifteen teen mothers graduated after successfully completing a financial literacy and career development training at the Kibera-based non-governmental organisation Polycom Girls, bringing to 350 the number of teen mothers who have benefitted from the programme since its launch last year.
The training has seen teen moms start successful socio economic projects which have gone a long way in addressing youth unemployment, fostering entrepreneurship, and enhancing financial literacy among young women.
Polycom Girls organisation has also been empowering young women through the Bado Binti Project, a transformative initiative aimed at equipping teenage mothers with essential skills for economic independence.
Some of this year’s graduates shared their inspirational testimonials on how the training gave them a new lease of life.
Winnie Muya was born and raised in Kibera; her journey reflects the struggles and triumphs of many young mothers.
She met Polycom in 2020 when she was pregnant; with their support, she was taken to Kenyatta Hospital, and after giving birth, she returned to school. Despite facing discouragement, including from her own mother, she persevered and is now planning to study photography and community development.
“Teen mothers often have no one holding their hands. Many of us are chased away by our parents. Polycom made my journey easier by providing support, engaging with parents, and helping us meet daily needs. Today, my relationship with my mother has improved, and she is proud of me.” she said
Lavender Akinyi, a 19-year-old mother, said she was able to gain confidence, become an excellent public speaker, and grow her professional network.
She now works in digital marketing and leads Women for Teens, a programme fostering dialogue between teen mothers and older women.
“Many teen mothers experience isolation. I faced rejection from my community. Through Women for Teens, we provide a sense of belonging and hold intergenerational conversations on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). These discussions help young mothers understand their environment and realise they can still build a future.” she said
David Odhiambo, who led a two-day financial literacy and career management training for the teenage mothers in the Bado Binti Project, emphasised the importance of budgeting, saving, and financial decision-making, crucial skills to help the young women secure a stable future.
“Teen mothers often suffer from social discrimination and trauma. The training opened their eyes to financial opportunities, helping them gain confidence and plan for sustainable businesses. Many thought their small earnings were insufficient for savings, but we demonstrated that developing a saving culture, regardless of income level, is the first step toward financial independence.” Odhiambo remarked
Polycom was established in 2003 by Jane Anyango to respond to cases of sexual violence and manipulation against young girls. Since then, Polycom has grown to provide programmes for teenage mothers, young women, and older women, empowering them through education and vocational training.
“Bado Binti is a big dream, but we acknowledge that teenage pregnancies remain high, and child-headed households are a growing concern. Many girls are primary carers, making it difficult for them to return to school or enrol in training programmes. Our goal is to continue expanding this initiative nationally to reach more young women in need.”said Anyango
The organisation works with several partners, including UNFPA, which has helped expand the programme from six schools to current 50.
They partner with organisations such as Womankind Worldwide and financial institutions such as Equity Bank who contribute to providing holistic support for young women.
With over 5.34 million youths unemployed in Kenya, the Bado Binti Project is an essential initiative in addressing the economic challenges facing young women by equipping them with financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurial skills, the organisation is building a generation of self-sufficient, empowered women who contribute to job creation and economic development.