Written by Kabibi Robert, CFK Africa Field Officer, Funzo Project-Kilifi
They say opportunity comes once in a lifetime, and when it comes, you should jump at it. That saying is the story of Pendo.
Pendo, a teenage mother in Kilifi, was introduced to CFK Africa’s Funzo project for young mothers in 2023 after dropping out of school. She didn’t hesitate – when learning about the program, she jumped at the opportunity to finish her education. With CFK Africa’s support for her school fees, advocacy among school administrators, and weekly empowerment sessions led by the CFK Africa team, the project opened up new doors and a second chance at building a better life. Pendo proudly completed her secondary school studies at Mkongani Secondary School.
However, in 2024, life grew difficult. Pendo faced new challenges, including long periods of idleness that led to extreme stress. She decided to seek guidance from CFK Africa’s girls’ empowerment team once again. Pendo resumed attending CFK Africa’s weekly empowerment sessions, seeking a space of community and sisterhood to help her navigate dark times. She was motivated to do more, and in 2025, she began volunteering with CFK Africa at the Matsangoni Youth Friendly Centre, assisting with administrative tasks, including dispensing sanitary towels and helping clean and organize the centre.
Through her volunteer experience, Pendo built courage and improved her communication skills. She became connected to the centre’s youth committee and started to play an active role in mobilizing other young people and raising awareness about key issues affecting her community. With growing confidence, she networked and jumped again at the opportunity to join the Youth Advisory Council for Health in Kilifi County. She was selected to represent all youth in Matsangoni ward on health issues, a role that allows her to amplify and advocate for other youth and teenage mothers.
“I never imagined I could stand before a big audience, speak with confidence, and deliver speeches,” she reflects.
Today, Pendo also facilitates parents’ sessions at Mkongani Secondary school on human rights-related issues and remains a consistent and dedicated mentor to other young mothers in Kilifi. She credits CFK Africa’s Funzo project, mentorship sessions, and girls’ parliament training for equipping her with the knowledge and skills she shares.
Her determination has begun to bear fruit. By jumping at even more opportunities, she has started a handful of small businesses, like selling potatoes, mandazi, and maize flour, as well as small-scale poultry farming, earning a small income that allows her to support herself and even save a little in local chamas (village savings and loan associations). These steps have helped her independence as she continues to shape her future. “I am planning to open my own kiosk,” she shares proudly.
Pendo constantly encourages her fellow youth to stay focused in school and to make the most of every opportunity that comes their way.
“I believe there’s so much more ahead of me. I thank the CFK Africa family for nurturing me. Today, I can provide the basic needs for my child, as well as create a lasting impact in my community,” she says.
For Pendo, the future is brighter than ever, and she remains ready to jump at every new opportunity.