Back in 2007—before Elimu was even officially launched—Janet became one of our very first sponsored students at Heri Sewing College. It was a simple opportunity, but one that would transform her life in ways none of us could have imagined.
With her sewing skills in hand, Janet set out to build a life for her family. Her small tailoring business has not only kept her children in school but also helped her put down roots. Over the years, she’s built a few traditional mud and tin-roofed houses on her family’s land, owns a small herd of cattle, and keeps a variety of other livestock. Always thinking ahead, she saved diligently and eventually bought a plot of land where she now grows crops—both to feed her family and earn a little extra income.
When Elimu opened the first Elimu Resource Centre in 2016, Janet was one of the most eager to join. She attended every opportunity she could to build her digital literacy and expand her skillset. Her determination was inspiring.
In 2018, we moved into our current office and in 2021 launched the Artisan Maker Space. Janet was one of the first alumni to join the fashion and textile workshops we offered. Her journey since then has been nothing short of incredible. From learning modern dress patterning and advanced sewing techniques to mastering bag-making, beadwork, and even upcycling secondhand clothing into eco-friendly fashion—Janet embraced it all.
She also learned to craft beautiful home décor items like curtains, throw pillows, and tablecloths. In 2022 and 2023, she was an integral part of our Pendo Artisan Ragdoll production team, adding her expert stitching and care to each handcrafted doll.
Earlier this year, Janet reached yet another milestone: she was hired as a sewing instructor at Pamoja Heart Education Centre, located just outside Malindi. The Centre is managed by another Elimu alumni making this story doubly gratifying! When we went to visit Janet in her new role, we were overwhelmed with pride and joy. Watching her teach and inspire the next generation of artisans reminded us why we do this work. Janet stood at the front of the class with confidence and warmth, guiding her students with patience and skill. It was clear they not only respected her but saw in her what was possible for their own futures. You can see her whole story in the video below
Today, she is not only earning a living but passing on her knowledge to others. Her journey reminds us that change doesn’t happen overnight—it happens step by step, stitch by stitch. And it’s powered by women like Janet, whose determination turns opportunity into something lasting. We’re incredibly proud of her, and grateful to walk alongside her in this journey.