How a Vocational Center in Kenya has Transformed the Lives of Hundreds of Women in the Village of Gatanga

Somewhere along the winding road between Gatanga and Thika, nestled in the lush, rolling hills of Kenya, lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. You’ll know you’re close when you spot the weathered billboard signaling the entrance to Wamburu Coffee Factory. Take the dirt road to the left, pass a cheerful kindergarten teeming with children’s laughter, and make another left through the aging red gate. You’ve arrived at Shine On Vocational Center.

At first glance, it may seem like an unassuming lot with a modest house at the back. However, this humble school has been a beacon of hope and opportunity for hundreds of women and young girls since its founding in 2005, providing them with sustainable livelihoods and the chance to realize their dreams.

Jenny and I entered the classroom with a mix of curiosity and reverence, finding the girls diligently taking notes as their teacher, who had recently given birth, explained the intricacies of “sugaring” from the textbook.

Sugaring, a hair removal method that uses a natural paste made from sugar, water, and lemon juice, has been used for centuries and is known for being gentle on the skin. The atmosphere was one of focused determination, the kind that promises a brighter future.

After the lecture, it was time for practical application. Each girl paired up with a partner to practice different hairstyles on each other. The room buzzed with excitement and chatter as they worked, their hands skillfully weaving and styling with precision. The air was filled with a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.

One of the first things you’ll notice in Kenya is how impeccably groomed the women are. A bad hair day is virtually nonexistent, as they invest hours and a significant portion of their income each week at the hairdresser. The attention to detail and pride in their appearance is evident in every braid and curl.

Kenyan women’s hairstyles are anything but simple. Kikuyu women, in particular, often struggle to grow long hair. As a result, they frequently get extensions sewn onto their short hair and braided, a time-consuming process that yields stunning results. The intricate designs and vibrant colors are a testament to their creativity and resilience.

Shine On Kenya Vocational Center was established to offer 25 women annually the chance to take Hair and Beauty classes, as well as dressmaking lessons—skills highly valued in Kenya’s rural areas. The center specifically targets vulnerable and disadvantaged women, providing them with the tools they need to build a better future.

In addition to hands-on skills, the girls receive life skills training and are encouraged by a partner organization, Hand in Hand, to learn about business and entrepreneurship. This empowers them to create and manage their own salons and businesses after graduation. The comprehensive curriculum ensures that they are well-prepared to face the challenges of the real world.

“Many of these girls were unable to attend high school,” explained Emmah Wmogo, a project officer at the school. “We encourage them to join the center, and we charge only a nominal fee. They study here for eight months, starting in January and finishing in August, with graduation in October. We then set them up for a two-month internship at a local salon, where they gain hands-on experience. At the end of the course, they receive three certificates: Hairdressing and Beauty, Life Skills Development, and Business.”

Initially, the girls didn’t pay us much attention. However, when I let down my hair and they saw its length, their interest was piqued. The curiosity in their eyes was palpable, and soon they were surrounding me, eager to learn more.

“Is that your real hair? I’m so jealous; we Kikuyu women can never grow hair like that. It’s a shame,” said Madris, a new student who had joined just two weeks earlier. Her voice carried a mix of admiration and longing, a reflection of the challenges they face.

Before I knew it, Madris and the teacher were washing my hair—a welcome relief given the recent drought that had left us with a water shortage. As my hair was washed and brushed, the other girls gathered around. Soon, I found myself getting new braids, a process that took over two hours. Their deft fingers moved with practiced ease, transforming my hair into a work of art.

In this humble setting, Shine On Vocational Center is transforming lives, one hairstyle at a time. The impact of the center extends far beyond the classroom. It instills confidence, fosters independence, and empowers women to take control of their destinies. The sense of community and support is evident in every interaction, creating an environment where dreams can flourish.

The success stories of Shine On graduates are a testament to the center’s effectiveness. Many have gone on to open their own salons, becoming pillars of their communities and role models for future generations. Their achievements are a source of pride and inspiration, proving that with the right support and opportunities, anything is possible.

As we left the center, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of admiration for the resilience and determination of these women. Shine On Vocational Center is more than just a school; it’s a lifeline, a place where dreams are nurtured, and futures are built. In a world that often overlooks the marginalized, this center stands as a beacon of hope, lighting the way for those who dare to dream.