The Dreams of a Food Cafe from struggles to Savings

 




Meet Joy, a very kind soul. Behind that soft-spoken demeanour is a go-getter and a big dreamer.

For Joy, a social work and community development student currently interning at Kenyatta National Hospital, the journey to financial independence has without doubt been transformative. As a SheEO Fellow, Joy is unlocking a new perspective on money and self-discipline. 

Like many young people, Joy struggled with savings. Balancing her student responsibilities, personal needs and aspirations, and savings felt out of touch. The concept of setting aside money for the future and, as a student, felt unrealistic and often intimidating. 

"I always thought savings was about having excess money. Something as a student I rarely had." Joy shared.

Her mindset began to change when she joined the SheEO MAP. At first she only wanted to volunteer as a fellow; after our first module, "Woman Entrepreneurship: Mindset."  Through the interactive class sessions, practical exercises, and take-home assignments, Joy was introduced to the principles of financial management, including the importance of savings. 

Through the SheEO MAP, Joy has learnt that savings isn't about waiting for a windfall but about discipline and consistency. She has learnt how to track her expenses, prioritize her needs, and set achievable financial goals. 

Today, Joy proudly and confidently shares that she has successfully cultivated a savings habit. "For the first time, I feel in control of my finances. I can save comfortably without feeling like I am sacrificing a lot." She says with a smile. 

This isn't the end. Far from it, Joy is ready to delve deeper into advanced financial concepts like cashflow management and budgeting, which will be part of her mentorship. She views these skills as essential tools for both her personal growth and future entrepreneurial ventures. 

While serving as a SheEO fellow, Joy is also nurturing her big idea: opening a food cafe. The dream stems from her passion for hospitality and her desire to create a welcoming space where people can connect and especially the labour workforce can access nutrition and delicious yet affordable meals. 

Although in the ideation phase, Joy is using her time as a fellow to lay the groundwork for her business. Having the opportunity to access mentorship will help her absorb lessons, observe how successful entrepreneurs manage their ventures, and refine her vision for the cafe.

As an intern in KNH, Joy continues to serve her community. Her dual role as a SheEO Fellow allows her to blend her passion for social impact with personal and professional development. 

Joy represents a group of young women who are not only dreaming of a better future but actively working towards it.

Her advice to others is simple: "Start where you are. Whether it's saving a small amount or taking the first steps towards your big idea, every small step counts."

As Joy continues her journey with SheEO, she inspires others to embrace transformation, believe in their potential, and pursue their dreams—one step at a time. 





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