In 2023, Solar Sister launched its Apprenticeship Program in Kenya. Kenya Communications Associate Roselinder Achieng recently interviewed Dorcas Kagendo, a 20-year-old graduate from the town of Maua.
After seeing posters near Maua Girls High School, Dorcas joined the program in August 2023. She had to leave Zetech University for financial reasons and her father’s illness. Sparked by the opportunity, she called the number on the poster and joined the program.
“During the training as an apprentice, I learned a lot about managing money earned from selling clean cookstoves and lamps and being my own boss. I did not just sit back home and pity myself for having to drop out of school temporarily. I had to do something with my life, and when Solar Sister came up with this opportunity, I did not think twice but took it on the spot,” Dorcas said.
Upon graduating, Dorcas became a Senior Sister entrepreneur, her primary source of income. She formed strong connections with her clients, many of whom she considers family.
With her savings, Dorcas plans to expand her business to include a beauty shop and shoe sales. This will help her save enough to return to university and complete her Mass Media degree.
“If I did not take up this opportunity, I would be devastated, frustrated, and make unwise moves as a young lady. I am earning income from selling clean-energy cook stoves and lamps and making good use of my time; otherwise, I would be idle and stressed.”
Dorcas meets her clients door-to-door, traveling around Meru County, which is challenging for a young woman.
“The marketing classes and experience are preparing me for my dream job as a news reporter. My confidence today is much more than when I joined Solar Sister in August 2023.”
She values the support from her fellow graduates.
“We even started a Sisterhood Group with the support of our Business Development Associate, Miriam Kamba.”
Dorcas says that jobs don’t have to be behind a desk. Despite some mockery from peers, she remains focused on her goals. Some friends even suggested that she just marry a rich man.
Her response?
“Here I am, making my own money. I believe that I will soon get back to the university and graduate. Even so, I am an established entrepreneur, courtesy of the Solar Sister opportunity. My family is very supportive of me and now I can help support them.”