In 2022, Solar Sister merged with Livelihoods Kenya. The objective behind this merger was straightforward – to broaden our reach and significantly impact women entrepreneurs in Kenya.
Livelihoods Kenya brings a solid model that trains at-risk youth for roles as sales agents in the clean cookstove technology sector. Meanwhile, Solar Sister has been operating with a clear focus on promoting entrepreneurship in solar and clean cooking distribution.
Recognizing the strengths of both models, we have initiated steps to combine them. Our approach ensures that we incorporate the core aspects of the Livelihoods model while still aligning with the Solar Sister’s foundational principles.
The result of this integration is the Apprenticeship Pilot Program, launched in July 2023. This program is designed to bolster the skills of around 45 existing sales agents, guiding them through a comprehensive three-month entrepreneurship training. This program is laser-focused on empowering, training, and guiding current sales agents to evolve into self-reliant entrepreneurs.
Participants served as commissioned sales agents for Solar Sister products during this apprenticeship phase. They were under the direct supervision of our Business Development Associates in Kenya. The training was systematic, with weekly modules on topics ranging from connected selling and leadership to money management and the basics of entrepreneurship. An added advantage is the mentorship our Business Development Associates provided, coupled with peer support from fellow apprentices.
The three-month journey culminates with the apprentices having a clear choice: they can formally transition from sales agents to independent entrepreneurs within the Solar Sister network. Those who choose this path will benefit from the ongoing mentorship and resources our BDAs provide.
This merger and the subsequent program are steps towards combining strengths, optimizing resources, and creating a stronger platform for entrepreneurship in Kenya.