HIV+ Women Empowerment Project Africa (Kenya)

The women’s cooperative organisation was founded in 2006 by Mary, a social worker, who whilst working with destitute children realised that the best people to help the children were their mothers, many of whom were HIV+, and single.

1. Community Support and Services

Working out of their own premises, which is their HQ, community centre, workplace, and volunteers’ hostel, they coordinate a range of work and support.

• They work with the local hospital, to support and lead on health matters, and HIV drug monitoring with the women.

• They offer social services, community support, and home visits with a multi-disciplinary approach, supporting the women and their families.

• Women with HIV, still often shunned by family and employers, are supported through counselling, home visits, and assistance with their medication.

• The cooperative provides home-based care for children, as well as care for those women who are sick or elderly.

• They maintain and manage the properties.

• The cooperative encourages a supportive community among its members.

2. Education and Training

• The cooperative runs training workshops and production workshops.

• They train women to be self-employed, supporting them in setting up and running their own businesses.

• Training includes finance and agriculture, as well as skills for producing goods such as textiles and jewelry.

• They have a school nearby for the children of the women, providing education from birth to age six.

3. Business and Economic Empowerment

• The project empowers women, by giving them avenues for economic freedom through selling goods they produce, such as textiles and jewelry

• They support all aspects of the women’s business, including accountancy

• They provide micro-loans

• the school, which is subsidised at 50% of the market rate, is provided to enable the mothers to work.

Almost all volunteers stay at the hostel that is provided by the cooperative for this purpose. (Some volunteers and professionals may wish to stay in a hotel) . This and full board, is included in what you pay,

The area is a safe environment for the locals and volunteers, where in 20 years their volunteers have had no problems of concern for their well being or safety.

You are provided with 24/7 support, and a pickup from the airport.

After you contact us, we take the time to understand you—your unique skills, passions, and aspirations. Together, we'll identify opportunities with ethe women’s cooperative that align with their work and your strengths and interests. It's all about creating a fulfilling experience for you while making a meaningful impact.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or eager to try something new, your journey with us is flexible and tailored to your interests and circumstances. Here are some of the possibilities you can explore:

1. Professional Expertise and Development

• Midwifery, social work, or counselling to support individuals and families.

• Teaching and education, from formal classrooms to creative workshops.

• Business skills like admin, bookkeeping, or training others to strengthen their ventures.

2. Creative and Hands-On Contributions

• Jewelry and textile design to showcase your artistic flair.

• Building maintenance to put your practical skills into action.

• Teaching art to children or introducing imaginative play in kindergartens.

3. Community and Personal Engagement

• Attending home visits to connect with and support local families.

• Assisting in kindergartens to nurture young minds.

• Sharing your time and presence to create lasting connections.

By working together, you’ll grow, contribute, and find joy in making a difference. Let's embark on this meaningful adventure—your talents have a place here!