In a significant initiative to uplift the youth of Kenya, Safaricom has launched a nationwide series of upskilling bootcamps, known as the ‘Safaricom Hook Circle.’

This programme aims to empower young people through three key areas: technology, careers, and culture.

The kick-off event took place at Chuka University in Tharaka Nithi County, attracting more than 4,000 participants from the university and its surrounding communities.

Attendees had the opportunity to engage in insightful masterclasses facilitated by a diverse group of expert partners.

Fawzia Ali, Chief Consumer Business Officer at Safaricom PLC, emphasised the initiative's goals.

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“Safaricom Hook Circle aims to connect youth all over Kenya to opportunities that will propel them to succeed in their area of interest. In collaboration with our partners, we will provide youth in Kenya with the opportunity to learn relevant topics in financial literacy, tech-forward upskilling, career readiness and culture as a form of expression and income," Fawzia said.

The bootcamp is organised around three main themes:

The Culture Hook is designed to help youth explore their passions, with partners such as Elevate, Baze Radio, Boomplay, and Artfit delivering masterclasses on content monetisation and pathways into the art and fashion industries.

The Technology Hook focuses on equipping participants with essential skills for a tech-driven future, guided by organisations including Power Learn Project, Avunja Mobile, and Transsion.

Finally, the Career Hook aims to inspire youth to pursue their ambitions, with support from partners like Brighter Monday, Wowzi, Trace Academia, ABSA, and Twiva, who offered valuable career development masterclasses.

In recognition of the importance of mental health and financial education, sessions were also conducted by Chiromo Hospital, Absa through its Ready to Work Programme, and Old Mutual.

Throughout the series of Safaricom Hook Circle bootcamps, 600 participants are expected to receive technology scholarships from Power Learn Project.

In addition, 4,000 individuals will benefit from career training, along with 15 internship opportunities provided by Brighter Monday, which will also offer 60 CV upgrades.

Transsion will provide financing for Tecno, Infinix, and Itel devices, while Twiva will create influencer sales job opportunities for over 3,000 young people.

Furthermore, participants across the country will have access to mentorship in various fields, including tech, fashion, and music.