Esther’s Path to Employment: Shaping Her Future with TechCraft

Written by Martha Otieno and Maureen Onyango.

At just 19 years old, Esther Farida is an example of what it means to stay resilient and dedicated to success. Born and raised in Kibera, her dreams of higher learning and career attainment were cut short after completing her secondary education due to expensive tuition fees. However, joining CFK Africa’s TechCraft program changed her narrative, introducing her to new hands-on educational opportunities and career pathways.

Today, Farida is a beauty and therapy trainee at Plush Beauty Salon and Nail Bar in Highrise, Langata, Nairobi, where she secured employment after completing a 3-month apprenticeship through CFK Africa’s TechCraft Project.

A Commitment to Training

Esther is committed to her future (Photo Credit: Steven Ashuma).

Esther was matched with Jane Anjili, the owner of Belh’s Fragrance salon for her training. From the beginning, Master Craftswoman Jane Anjili recognized Esther’s potential. “Esther came in with a spark, a deep interest in learning, and a genuine passion for beauty and therapy,” Jane recalls. “What set her apart was her resilience and eagerness to master new techniques.” 

The training at Belh’s Fragrance was comprehensive, covering a wide range of skills, including skincare treatments, massage therapy, manicure and pedicure techniques, and excellence in customer service. Under Jane’s mentorship, Esther thrived, quickly mastering advanced techniques and displaying a special talent for creative nail art and facial treatments. Jane guided Esther through hands-on sessions, providing feedback to refine her skills at each stage. 

“Esther was always the first to arrive and the last to leave,” Jane shares. “She practiced diligently, asked insightful questions, and even volunteered to assist her peers whenever possible. By the second month, her progress was remarkable, and she was already receiving praise from clients who attended the training sessions.” 

Esther learns nail art in her apprenticeship program (Photo credit: Steven Ashuma).

“I’m grateful for the opportunity I received through TechCraft and the mentorship from Jane Anjili,” Esther shares. “The training not only equipped me with technical skills but also boosted my confidence. Now, working at Plush Beauty Salon has been a dream come true, and I feel prepared for every challenge thanks to the thorough training at Belh’s Fragrance.” 

From Apprentice to Professional 

Esther’s journey showcases the impact of having dedicated mentors and the ripple effect on the apprentice. It also exemplifies what TechCraft hopes to achieve in connecting youth from Kibera and other slums in Kenya with dignified employment. Now gainfully employed, Esther plans to continue learning and hopes to open her own beauty therapy studio in the future. 

Jane reflects on Esther’s success with pride. “Watching her transition from a curious apprentice into a confident professional has been deeply rewarding. Esther’s journey shows that with the right training and determination, young people can achieve their career goals and change their lives for the better.” 

Make a donation to CFK Africa and support initiatives like TechCraft, which is empowering youth in informal settlements with skills to obtain gainful employment.

Share on social