At Alight’s Nairobi Hub, our staff wear their IDs on beaded lanyards made by Bawa Hope. Each one carries the care and skill of a local artisan’s hands. This year, that connection grew into something more meaningful: an opportunity to help community members turn their creativity into a pathway towards economic independence.
Between May and August 2026, Alight partnered with Bawa Hope and L’afrikana to provide 21 adults from refugee and host communities with training in beaded jewelry making. The initiative aimed to go beyond skills development by creating pathways to sustainable livelihoods, equipping participants with a practical craft they could use to generate income and build greater independence for themselves and their families.
The idea emerged from conversations with community members who faced limited economic opportunities and uncertain incomes, with many relying on irregular work or financial assistance to meet their household needs. In response, the Alight team sought to introduce a practical, income-generating skill that participants could explore, develop, and potentially turn into a sustainable source of income.
The vision for this program extended beyond the training room. It was about unlocking potential and nurturing confidence. “At Alight, our goal is to give choice and share power. This training brought that commitment to life. Empowerment is not simply about learning something new; it is about equipping the community with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to shape a better future for themselves and their families.”— Emelda Asati, Alight
