In addressing the myriad challenges confronting Kenya's youth, the CoELIB Project, through its USAID Empowered Youth program centered its efforts on enhancing youth economic opportunities, bolstering the capacity of Kenyan higher education institutions serving them, and fortifying youth-serving systems.
In this series, we cast a spotlight on Miss Margaret Muia, an individual whose life has been touched by this transformative program and who now stands as a beacon of change in her community and beyond.
Please introduce yourself.
Greetings to all the readers. My name is Margaret Muia, an entrepreneur by trade, proudly supported by the USAID Empowered Youth Program, and above all, a member of Kenya's vibrant youth community.
What were the pivotal takeaways from the entrepreneurship training provided by the Empowered Youth program?
The entrepreneurship training provided by the program imparted crucial knowledge on initiating and managing a business effectively, emphasizing the importance of identifying and catering to a specific niche market.
In what ways did the aforementioned training enhance your entrepreneurial skills and leadership qualities?
This training not only enhanced my entrepreneurial skills but also fostered leadership qualities. It enabled me to establish the African Youth Leadership Forum - a small group, now operating as a NGO, dedicated to empowering young leaders. Moreover, the acquired skills facilitated the successful management of my personal business endeavors.
Could you illustrate a real-life scenario where the knowledge gained from the training positively impacted your endeavors?
The knowledge gained from the training positively boosted my business management practices. It equipped me with the ability to efficiently handle financial aspects such as calculating expenditures, assessing profits, losses, and maintaining balance within my business operations.
Considering the prevalent challenges like unemployment and limited opportunities, how effective do you find youth empowerment initiatives in Kenya?
No doubt, youth empowerment initiatives such as Empowered Youth play a vital role. These programs provide essential skills and resources, offering viable alternatives for young individuals awaiting formal employment opportunities.
Can you delve into the importance of aligning youth with industry demands in sectors experiencing rapid growth?
Encouraging youth to pursue their passions early on and acquire relevant skills aligned with industry demands is crucial. By nurturing their interests and continuously refining their skills, young people can position themselves for success and contribute meaningfully to sectors experiencing rapid growth.
How might proposed measures such as apprenticeships in dairy value-chains and entrepreneurship training contribute to bolstering the economic prospects of young people?
These measures hold immense potential for bolstering the economic prospects of young people. By fostering entrepreneurship, individuals can actively contribute to economic growth, thereby expanding employment opportunities and stimulating overall economic development.
What are your insights on involving youth in pivotal decision-making processes at the county level as a means to fortify systems aimed at serving youth?
Engaging youth in pivotal decision-making processes at the county level is essential for building systems aimed at serving their needs effectively. Given that youth are the future leaders, providing them with platforms to voice their opinions and concerns enables the development of solutions that resonate with their realities and aspirations.
Any last words?
Reflecting on my journey with the CoELIB through the USAID Empowered Youth Program, I am profoundly thankful for the doors it has opened for me. I urge organizations with similar goals not to relent in their efforts to empower youth, not only in Kenya but throughout Africa. To my fellow youth, let's remain vigilant in seeking out and seizing opportunities like these that can propel us toward success and meaningful impact.
Share your empowerment journey with CoLEIB by emailing us at
