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Adulting 101

Starting Small, Dreaming Big: A Guide for Kenyan Youth Entrepreneurs

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We all have needs that don’t fit into our budgetary provisions for a month and asking your parent for more money without the question, “what for?” is impossible. But even with our current economy, it is almost unreasonable for a middle- or lower-income earner to rely entirely on one revenue stream. The best way to break that cycle is for you to enter the business world; have multiple revenue streams and understanding the essentials of launching a small business is key. Navigating the business world can be tricky but lucky for you, we’re here. This guide offers practical advice, highlighting successful models and key financial partners for you to start your business; starting small.

1. Identifying a Niche:

Look for unique problems in your community, things your friends require and fill that gap, find a problem that you can solve: that’s your business idea.
Example: EcoPost, a Kenyan startup, found its niche in recycling plastic waste into durable building materials, addressing environmental concerns and creating a profitable business.

2. Lean Startup Model:

Begin with minimal resources, don’t strain yourself, start with the little resources you have, test that your niche is viable by doing a presale or preservice offering of your product or service, then iterate based on feedback. Decide at that point if you want to go through with the business plan or if you want to rethink and try something else; theres no shame in failing, as long as you continue to invest in yourself and try.

3. Embracing Digital Tools

Everyone’s glued to their phones and laptops, right? Use that to your advantage. Get your business on social media, build a snazzy website, or even create an app if that’s your thing. It’s all about reaching people where they hang out – online.

Social Media Magic: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are great for marketing. Post cool pics, engage with your audience, and even run ads without spending a fortune.

Website Wizards: Tools like Wix or Squarespace let you set up a slick website easily. It’s like having your own digital shop window.

App Adventures: If you’re feeling fancy, use app builders like Appy Pie or BuildFire. Create an app for your business and get on everyone’s phone!

Marketing Gurus: Mailchimp or Sendinblue for email marketing can help you reach out to customers with news and deals.

Operation Organizers: Asana or Trello are great for keeping your business tasks organized. Trust me, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without them.

4. Funding and Financial Partners:

For all businesses, one of the most important factors are who your financial partners are. Banks like Equity Bank, KCB Group, and Co-operative Bank are known for supporting small businesses with loans and financial advice, once you have tested your business model, approach your bank of choice and talk to them, find out how they can help and what advantages there are with opening a small business account with them.

Microfinance Institutions: Institutions like Faulu Kenya and SMEP Microfinance Bank offer loans tailored to small startups.

Visit as many as you have to to find one that perfectly accommodates you. Choose financial partners that understand and support small business needs.

5. Government and NGO Support:

Government initiatives like the Youth Enterprise Development Fund provide financial support and training. It’s not just the government; loads of NGOs like enpact are also in the mix. Ready to back you up with extra funding, workshops, and networking events. Keep an eye out for local and international NGOs that have programs for young business owners.

Scout for Opportunities: Always be on the lookout for government grants, loans, or training programs. Keep your ears open and check out official websites regularly.

Network with NGOs: Get involved in local business communities and online forums. This way, you’ll hear about NGO programs that could benefit your business.

Apply Like a Pro: When you find an opportunity, go for it! Put together a solid application or proposal. Make sure to show them how awesome your business idea is and how their support can help it fly.

Tapping into these resources can give you a serious leg-up. It’s not just about the money (which is super helpful, obviously), but also about the training, mentorship, and connections you can gain. These programs can be a game-changer, especially when you’re just starting out.”

6. Networking and Community:

Building a network can provide invaluable advice, partnerships, and growth opportunities.

Starting a small business in Kenya is an exciting venture,even though we are overtaxed, the country’s spending power increases. With the right approach, identifying a niche, starting lean, embracing digital tools, choosing the right financial partners, and building a strong network, young entrepreneurs can turn their business dreams into reality.

Networking: Your Business Buddy System:

Imagine having a group of friends who get the whole business thing. That’s what building a network is all about. It’s like having your own personal think tank. You can bounce ideas off them, get some real talk advice, or even find a partner for your next big thing. Remember how in school we were taugh about how important it is to keep good, beneficial friends? This is where it pays off. It opens doors to opportunities you didn’t even know existed. From landing your first client to finding a mentor who’s been there, done that, a strong network can be the secret sauce to your business success.

Example: iHub and Nairobi Garage offer networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs and mentors.

Jumping into the business world here is like starting an adventure. Yeah, we are overtaxed but the spending power of the country continues to rise. You’ll come across a new car ever so often or a new highrise building. So this is your chance to tap into that resource.

The Game Plan

 Find Your Spot: What’s missing in your hood? Is it a cool coffee shop or an app that makes life easier? That’s your niche.

 Start Smart and Lean: You don’t need a pile of cash to start. Begin with what you have and grow as you go, learn as you go.

Digital is Your Friend: Use those online tools to make noise about your biz. Social media, websites, apps – get on all of it.

Pick the Right Money Friends: Whether it’s a bank that gets small businesses or a microfinance place, choose someone who speaks your financial language.

Network Like a Boss: Get out there and make friends in the business world. They’re your ticket to bigger and better things.

Making Dreams Reality: With a bit of smarts, a dash of courage, and a whole lot of hustle, you can turn those business daydreams into your everyday grind. Kenya’s market is ripe for the picking, so why not you, right?

Adulting 101

What do you do with your EX’s belongings?

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Breaking up is never easy, especially when it comes to dealing with the remnants of a past relationship. Those items your ex left behind can evoke a mix of emotions—nostalgia, anger, and even confusion. You either want to kick and burn the things they left behind or snuggle and hold onto them for dear life. But fear not! Vibeyetu has just what to do with those things. From donating clothes and shoes to children’s homes to turning hated items into cleaning rags, we’ve got you covered.

1. Donate with Compassion

The Cold Season and Children’s Homes

As the chilly winds and rain overrun Nairobi, consider donating gently used clothing and shoes to children’s homes. These institutions often struggle to provide warm clothing for the kids in their care. Your ex’s old sweater or those sneakers they left behind could make a world of difference to a child shivering in the cold. Your ex might have been an awful person, but at least now that kid is warm. Everything happens for a reason, no??

Why Give Back?

Remember, giving is about more than just the physical item. It’s an act of kindness, a way to spread warmth and love. So, let go of any bitterness and focus on the positive impact your donation can have. Plus, it’s a chance to declutter your space and your heart simultaneously, creating space for the better items your next will leave.

If you have no place in mind, visit Kibra Youth Boxing Initiative (Kibraboxingclub.netlify.app), or drop them off at Colloseum Gymnasium at Adams Arcade to touch a heart and spread warmth.

2. The Cleaning Rag Option

Transforming Hated Items

Now, let’s get a little cheeky. Do you remember that one t-shirt that you hated but for some reason they loved? Yes, you read that right. That old T-shirt they wore everywhere? Perfect for dusting, your shoes have never looked cleaner. The quirky mug they couldn’t stand? Great for wiping down surfaces. It’s like a therapeutic cleansing—both for your home and your soul.

In an interview with UKEwebcast, opinions varied:

  • Absolutely Not: Some staunchly refused to take anything back, emphasizing that gifts should remain gifts, you know a sentiment of that time?
  • Depends on Impact: Others considered the impact on the recipient. If the gift would significantly affect their life, they’d keep it.
  • Sell It: Selling the item was a popular choice. After all, why not turn a painful memory into cash? Consider it heartbreak payment?

Whether you choose to donate or repurpose, remember that these items are more than just objects—they carry memories. So, embrace the warmth of giving, laugh about the cleaning rag option, and let go with grace.

Check out More from the UkeWebcast interview on Vibeyetu.com

Note: No exes were harmed in the making of this article. 😄

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Adulting 101

Navigating the Tides of Young Motherhood

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Young motherhood stands as a testament to resilience, hope, and transformation. Drawing insights from the poignant journey of Muriuki Kiae and responses from young mothers across the nation, this article delves into the heart of early parenthood, exploring the challenges, triumphs, and profound growth that come with being a young mother.

For many young mothers like Muriuki Kiae, the journey begins in solitude. The expected support from extended families and communities, once a staple in the Kenyan fabric, has dwindled, leaving many to navigate this path alone. Muriuki recalls, “When I found out I was pregnant, I was determined to breastfeed exclusively for six months. I was unprepared for the complexities that lay ahead.” The absence of a nurturing presence, such as a mother or aunt, exacerbates the challenge, making the support system a crucial pillar for young mothers.

Balancing Roles and Facing Challenges

The dance between motherhood and personal growth is a delicate one. Young mothers often find themselves juggling educational commitments, burgeoning careers, and their evolving social circles. The transition into motherhood can significantly alter relationships and social dynamics, bringing a new set of emotional and mental challenges. As Muriuki poignantly shares, “My baby would cry, and I would cry. We were both navigating a world we were unprepared for, compounded by the isolation and the silence around young motherhood.”

 Emotional Resilience and Mental Health

The emotional landscape of young motherhood is rich with complexity. Feelings of joy are often intertwined with anxiety, stress, and, as in Muriuki’s experience, the shadow of postpartum depression. “I didn’t know postpartum depression,” Muriuki confesses. “I wish I had this information at my fingertips.” Coping mechanisms become lifelines, with many young mothers turning to community support, counseling, and finding solace in shared experiences.

Lessons, Growth, and Reflections : Photo courtesy

Despite the myriad challenges, young motherhood is also a journey of profound learning and growth. It teaches resilience, the art of balance, and the power of seeking and offering support. Muriuki’s advice to young mothers resonates with wisdom, “A healthy mom calls for a healthy baby. A mom has to be in her right mental space to be able to breastfeed and nurture.” The importance of building a support system, both within the family and the community, becomes clear, highlighting the role of partners, friends, and community members in supporting young mothers.

Young mothers are not just nurturing the next generation; they are shaping the future of their communities. Their aspirations for their children and themselves are steeped in hopes of education, well-being, and a society that embraces and supports young mothers. The journey of young motherhood, with all its trials and triumphs, is a message of empowerment. It speaks to the strength of women who, like Muriuki Kiae, navigate the complexities of early parenthood with courage, transforming challenges into stepping stones for growth and change. In the words of Muriuki, a beacon of resilience and hope, “Understand that when your child is breastfeeding, they’re not just feeding; they’re connecting. And in that connection lies the strength to overcome, to grow, and to thrive.”

Young motherhood in Kenya is a journey marked by courage, resilience, and transformation. As society continues to evolve, the collective narrative of these mothers serves as a powerful testament to the importance of support, understanding, and empowerment in shaping a future where every mother and child can thrive.

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Adulting 101

Adulting Weekend: Sherehe and Rest this Easter.

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Adulting is truly a second job. It’s like every day is another round in the ring with responsibilities, bills, that ever-present need to sustain a hustle to keep everything afloat and school. So, I’m here wondering, is it just me who’s constantly tired lately?

But hey, the “Adulting Weekend” or as the Christians would prefer to call it; Easter, is just around the corner, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. From Good Friday on March 29th, which is a public holiday, Easter Sunday on March 31st, observed as an observance day and Easter Monday on April 1st, also a public holiday. A time traditionally marked by its spiritual significance and the promise of renewal offers a much-needed break from the relentless pace of adult life. A sort of renewal on its own.

And you know how Kenyans do it whether it’s Easter or not, give us a reason to celebrate, and we’ll turn it into a party. But, as we dive into the Easter sherehe, from the get-togethers to the sacred moments, let’s not forget to hit the pause button. It’s important to take a breather and rejuvenate. To unplug from the daily and truly rest. As we gear up for the lively and go-getter April, this Easter break is the perfect time – a chance to relax, refresh and recharge.

Imagine this Easter as your pit stop in the race of adulting. A time to cool down, refill your tank, and get ready to zoom off when April comes.

Take that long nap without feeling guilty, spend quality time with family and friends without peeking at emails, and allow your mind to wander off script every now and then. These small moments of rest are not just acts of self-care; they’re essential for keeping our inner fires burning.

To all of us navigating this crazy dance of adulting while looking forward to the Easter festivities, let’s make a pact to rest and rejuvenate. It’s in these moments of pause that we find the strength to keep pushing forward. Here’s to a chill Easter and a fired-up Aries Season.

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