ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Program is designed to unlock pathways to dignified and fulfilling work for young people, particularly young women. who face systemic barriers to economic participation. It responds to the urgent challenge of youth exclusion by combining skills development, mentorship, and entrepreneurship support into a single, integrated journey toward sustainable livelihoods.
At its core, the program targets young people who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET), a group often underserved and at risk of long-term exclusion. V2T goes beyond access, focusing on successful transitions into work by addressing not only skills gaps, but also the social, psychological, and structural barriers that limit young people’s ability to thrive.
The program leverages community hubs as safe, inclusive, and trusted spaces where young people can connect, learn, and grow. These hubs serve as entry points to opportunities, bringing together youth, mentors, employers, and ecosystem partners to co-create pathways to employment and entrepreneurship.
Through this model, participants benefit from a holistic package of support that includes:
Practical, market-relevant skills training, co-designed with industry to ensure alignment with real job opportunities
Structured mentorship and psycho social support, helping build confidence, resilience, and life skills
Work-based learning opportunities, including job placements, internships, and apprenticeships, that ease the transition into the labour market
Entrepreneurship and business development support, enabling young people to start and grow their own ventures, with linkages to finance and markets
By integrating these elements, the program not only prepares young people for work but also positions them to sustain and grow within it, whether through employment or enterprise.
WHO QUALIFIES?
The program is open to young women and men (aged 18-35 years) who:
· are neither in employment, education or training
· are motivated to gain skills, start a business or find work.
Young women are encouraged to apply.
LOCATION
The program operates in these four counties: Nairobi, Kilifi, Kitui and Mombasa.
DURATION
The program runs from April 2025 to March 2028.
ABOUT THE IMPLEMENTING PARTNERS
Swahili Pot Hub Foundation (SPH) has been pivotal in empowering youth across Kenya, particularly in underserved counties. With a volunteer-driven model, it began with a focus on technology but evolved into a comprehensive youth development center, addressing challenges like substance abuse and youth unemployment. SPH provides a safe space for young people to explore entrepreneurship, technical skills, and creative industries, reaching over 20,000 youth. Its multi-stakeholder approach fosters connections with mentors, government officials, and private sector partners, driving impactful, replicable success stories.
National Council of Churches of Kenya expertise is in youth mentorship and empowerment is evidenced by their mentorship programs in six counties, which have engaged over 4,300 young people and connected 2,100 to private sector opportunities. NCCK’s network of churches and community partners enables effective program implementation, fostering long-term empowerment through initiatives such as the Nature Positive Food Systems project and Urban Refugee Assistance Program.
E4Impact Foundation has trained over 1,500 entrepreneurs across 20 African countries, creating over 15,000 jobs. The foundation’s locally embedded approach ensures sustainability by integrating training into local universities, empowering entrepreneurs—especially women and youth—to scale ventures. E4Impact's extensive network with financial institutions and investors provides vital capital to accelerate startups and foster long-term economic transformation
IMPLEMENTATION PARTNER CONTACT DETAILS
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.swahilipothub.org/