Graduation ceremony at UFI Nairobi
In early October, UFI Nairobi celebrated the graduation of entrepreneurs from the Kahawa Soweto, City Carton and Kayole Soweto neighbourhoods, marking the end of an enriching training and coaching programme.
Celebrating the entrepreneurs involved in the Urban Fabric Initiative projects
On 2 October 2024, UFI Nairobi celebrated the graduation of entrepreneurs from the Kahawa Soweto, City Carton and Kayole Soweto neighbourhoods involved in the UFI projects. The graduation ceremony symbolised the culmination of a journey of learning and innovation, combining theoretical training and personalised coaching.
The event brought together project partners, including representatives from Equity Bank, Standard Chartered, Nairobi City Council, KISIP , and Absa-Kenya. Their presence underlined the importance of cross-sector collaboration between public, private and community players to ensure a lasting impact on the ground. During the event, the entrepreneurs presented their ideas to a panel of experts, highlighting their creativity, passion and newly acquired skills. It was an opportunity to receive constructive feedback and refine their projects.
"Your talent will take you before kings"
Mr Nixon Sekoh, Head of NGOs and Embassies at Equity Bank at the awards ceremony.
A complete training programme: initial training, group and individual coaching
Graduates benefited from Somo's entrepreneurial development programme, to provide them with essential financial management, marketing and leadership skills. In addition, they learned how to combine business development with physical and social infrastructure improvements, ensuring the sustainability of their projects within UFI, while strengthening the resilience of their businesses.
In addition to this initial training, graduates underwent intensive coaching sessions, which included workshops, individual sessions and group activities. The sessions developed their strategic thinking and leadership skills.