Brenda Rewrites Her Narrative
Brenda’s Childhood Growing Up in Rural Kenya
Brenda grew up in a family of seven children. Her father is a preacher and her mother runs a small vegetable kiosk to support the family. Brenda was able to go to school, but had to drop in 10th grade because she became pregnant with her son Jayden.
With no one to help care for her son, she was unable to continue her education in a traditional school. Struggling to make ends meet, she lost hope and couldn’t see a future where she could support herself and her child. But everything changed when she joined Neema.
Three Years of Transformation
During her three years at Neema, Brenda received skills training in dressmaking and tailoring, counseling and discipleship.
Brenda passed three national dressmaking certifications during her stay at Neema. By completing her third-year internship in Neema’s shop, she also gained valuable business and financial management skills, which made her employable.
“I have learned a lot from the counselors, teachers, and matrons. Each has impacted me differently, and I have never been the same. I am so different and happy at heart knowing I have people who care so much about me. I have hope that my future will be better.”
The childcare workers supported Brenda by caring for Jayden while she was in class. Brenda said, “They potty trained him, taught him reading [and] writing, identifying different types of animals, [and] singing.
I am amazed when he sometimes tries to pray for me. I’m sure by next year when I graduate my child will go straight to school.”
Brenda has also learned organic farming methods at Neema’s permaculture farm.
During her third year, she said, “After graduating, I will be planting some of the crops that we can use at home and sell to make an income to sustain me and my son.”
Equipped to Lift Herself and Her Son Out of Extreme Poverty
Brenda graduated from Neema in December of 2024. Now as an alumna, Brenda works at a local tailoring shop in Kitale and with her income, is able to support herself, Jayden, and her parents. Jayden, now four years old, started school in January and adjusted well to the new environment.
Brenda has learned a lot in her new position, and she continues to receive counseling and career support from Neema’s staff.
She also still attends church in Kitale, and says, “I thank Neema for transforming me into who I am today: I know God and his Word, I know how to do chores and cooking, I know how to manage and deal with my emotions, I know how to relate and socialize with everyone, and I know how to make different designs. My confidence is high.”
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