Graduation Day at Neema

 

Mercy (Class of 2024) receives her Certificate of Completion from Irine, Program Director and Carol, Neema’s Chaplain.

Graduation at Neema is one of the greatest days of the year. It is a time of celebrating an incredible milestone; it is a day that symbolizes each young woman’s personal achievement. Graduation marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of a new chapter.

The highlight of the day was when the graduates gave their speeches about their three-year journey and experiences, and gave thanks to their parents, teachers, and fellow students. Another highlight was when they received their sewing machines, starter kits, and other gifts. This will give them a smooth transition since they’ve received the basics needed to start a business. Our hope is that the graduates will thrive using the available resources and skills they’ve attained.

Students from Neema’s Class of 2025 and 2026 dance to celebrate the graduating class!

The graduates said that Neema has really transformed their lives. They not only learned new skills through the training, but they also developed a personal relationship with God thanks to the morning and evening devotions at Neema, and felt that the counseling services increased their self-esteem and improved how they relate with others. 

They also learned permaculture so they can now grow vegetables for consumption and for sale. This will help them save money by not having to purchase vegetables, and selling produce will be an additional source of income. This will help them, their children, and their families. They also said they know how to prepare different dishes because of the catering classes. 

Brenda, Class of 2024, at graduation

The children of Neema graduates will be starting school soon!

Those with children were grateful for the care that Neema has given to their children. They said they have seen a great transformation—their children are now ready to join preschool!

Our graduates are planning to begin their own businesses, and some are planning to use their certificates to look for employment.

Dorcas (Class of 2024) with the sewing machine and starter kit that she will use to start her own tailoring business.

Irine, Neema Program Director, with Brenda, Class of 2024.

Veronica, Class of 2024

Esther, Class of 2024 (left) and Wise, Class of 2024, with her son Ali (right)

Neema staff and students cut the cake celebrating the Class of 2024!

Irine, Neema’s Program Director (left), and Faith (Class of 2024)

Written by Eunice Korir, Neema’s Business Skills Development Mentor

 
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