From Struggles to Skills, to Paying It Forward

Nancy’s journey is a shining example of resilience, empowerment, and the transformative power of education. Coming from a background of financial hardship, Nancy faced significant challenges in pursuing her secondary school education. Unable to support herself through high school, she relied on a life-changing Asante Africa Foundation scholarship that enabled her to complete her Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education in 2023. This scholarship was her stepping stone to a brighter future, offering her the opportunity to focus on her studies and dream of a better life.

After completing high school, Nancy joined Asante Africa Foundation’s Digital Employability and Entrepreneurship Program (DEEP), where she is currently an apprentice. This 15-month intensive program is equipping her with critical technical and professional skills, including software development, digital marketing, project management, and entrepreneurial business development. With over 1,500 hours of training and mentorship from industry leaders like Google, Cisco, and AWS, Nancy is earning globally recognized certifications and gaining practical experience that is shaping her future in the digital economy.

Asante Africa’s DEEP program has already had a transformative impact on Nancy’s life and the lives of many others. Program statistics show that 85% of apprentices secure jobs after completion, often with exponential salary increases. Some participants have grown their monthly earnings from as low as $60 to $400 or more, while others have launched their own businesses, contributing to their communities. Additionally, the Asante Africa’s Pay-it-Forward model ensures that the knowledge and skills acquired cascade through communities, with each apprentice training at least three others.

Nancy, while still in the program, has already begun paying it forward. She mentors younger students, teaching them technology-related skills and core subjects like mathematics. She plans to extend her mentorship, guiding aspiring mentors and young talents to enhance their skills and achieve their goals.

Nancy’s ongoing journey with the DEEP program is a testament to its power to transform lives. It not only equips youth with marketable skills but also fosters leadership and community impact. Through Nancy’s dedication and Asante Africa’s proven methodology, a new generation of skilled, confident youth is emerging, ready to break barriers and pave the way for others.