Post-secondary Scholarship

 

Empowering Livelihood Kenya has identified a critical need to provide opportunities for high school graduates to continue their education. Offering to cover tuition, books and living expenses for post-secondary education will allow qualified students to launch themselves into professional fields or vocational trades so they can move forward in life with skills and confidence. In partnership with the Samburu Youth Foundation, high school graduates will be evaluated for competency and motivation. Expanding educational opportunities is critical as traditional pastoral societies transition into modernity. The Foundation will focus on students from disadvantaged backgrounds so that entire families may benefit. For young adults, such support is crucial for unlocking their potential for a better future.

Giving Back!

A big shoutout to Hudson and Karino, two dedicated post-secondary students from Il Polei and proud recipients of the ELK Foundation Scholarship. As part of their commitment to community service—a key component of the scholarship program—they used their April school break to give back in a meaningful and hands-on way.

The two students took the initiative to renovate the local adult literacy classroom, giving it a much-needed facelift. They applied a fresh coat of paint, removed cobwebs, and thoroughly cleaned the walls, transforming the space into a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming environment for adult learners. Their efforts went beyond aesthetics—by addressing a common concern about spiders in the room, they helped remove a real barrier to learning that had been distracting and frightening some participants.

Thanks to Hudson and Karino’s hard work, the classroom is now a bright, inviting space that better supports concentration, confidence, and community learning.

This project reflects the spirit of the ELK Foundation’s scholarship model, which not only supports students in their academic journeys but also encourages them to be active contributors to their communities. We’re proud of Hudson and Karino for stepping up—and for setting a great example of leadership, initiative, and service.

Meet the ELK Foundation Scholarship Recipients

These inspiring students are pursuing diverse training programs, building brighter futures for themselves and their communities.

Read Their Stories, Below.

  • “Access to clean water is a pressing challenge in my community, a small town with limited plumbing resources.”
    Antony Seiten Lekiluai, from Ltergesi, Archers Post, Samburu

    While Antony is in the midst of studying for a Certificate in Plumbing from Thika Institute of Business Studies in Nairobi, he has chosen this field with purpose - Antony hopes to provide access to clean water in his community, a community with limited plumbing resources.

    Antony is a determined young man, coming from a family of 8 siblings: three brothers and five sisters. Growing up, he received inspiration and guidance from his father, whose unwavering support and dedication to family shaped Antony’s values and aspirations.

    A moment of pride for Antony came when he volunteered at the health and nutrition department at one of the health facilities nearest to where he grew up. This experience opened his eyes to the importance of quality plumbing resources.

    His vision for the future is clear. He wants to help eradicate the level of poverty in his region and provide practical solutions for a water system, which is a pressing issue. He believes that his education will empower him to deliver clean water to the interior villages in his area.

    The Empowering Livelihood Kenya Foundation scholarship allows Antony to invest in his future and the welfare of those that are closest to him. He aims to create a lasting impact and transform challenges into opportunities for himself and others.

  • “My parents have influenced my life and serve as role models who have instilled in me the values of kindness, responsibility and perseverance. Their dedication and hard work shaped my character and ambition.” 
    Brian Mudegu Treetop, Archers Post, Samburu

    Despite numerous challenges including studying late at night and limited resources, Brian completed his highschool education. All of these impediments have given him the determination and encouragement to succeed in college and beyond.

    One of Brian’s aspirations is to meet Dr. Joseph Lister, the pioneer of antiseptic surgery. Having a strong interest in health and science, Dr. Lister’s groundbreaking work in medicine has inspired Brian. This enthusiasm has driven Brian to complete his Diploma in Perioperative Theater Technology at the Nyahuru Medical Training College in Nyahuru. He purposefully chose this field for its possibility to make a difference in healthcare.

    Additionally, he recognizes a pressing need for improved mental health services in his community. Brian believes that promoting awareness and reducing stigma around mental health will lead to healthier individuals and families in his area.

    Through his college education, Brian envisions himself giving health talks during community outreach events. He aims to promote healthy lifestyle practices, such as proper hand washing and safe water consumption, which are essential in preventing disease.

    With the support of the Empowering Kenya Livelihood Foundation scholarship, Brian is not only investing in his future, but uplifting his community. He is determined to turn his education into action, in order to have a healthier and more informed society.

  • “My goal is to give back to my community. I believe education is the key to eradicating poverty. My future role is not only as a teacher, but as an advocate of girl’s education and women’s empowerment in Samburu. I want to inspire others just as I was inspired by my aunt to make a lasting impact on my community.”
    Chamanta Lenangiswa from Lorubae, Archers Post, Samburu.

    Now with her scholarship from Empowering Livelihood Kenya Foundation, Chamanta is beginning a new chapter in her life. She will study for a Diploma in Primary Teaching at Maralal Teachers College in Maralal. She is following her enthusiasm for education and sees this opportunity as a chance to build a new career.

    Chamanta Lenangiswa, a determined young woman from a family of eight siblings. She grew up in a community where girls' education was often overlooked. It was her aunt who played a major role in encouraging her and helping her shape her future. Her aunt advocated for her right to an education and ultimately took her to primary school - overcoming resistance from Chamanta’s father. This early struggle sparked her interest  in learning and inspired her to pursue a career in teaching.

    Chamanta hopes to encourage others, just as she was encouraged by her aunt to make an impact on her community. All of this was inspired by her aunt's belief in Chamanta’s right to an education.

  • “My passion for education and community development was inspired by my Uncle and a close friend during challenging times.”
    Demka Lores, from Treetop, Archers Post, Samburu.

    Demka Lores is just beginning his studies for a Diploma in Tourism, Travel and Business Studies at the Nairobi Institute of Business in Nairobi.

    Coming from a family of two siblings, Demka understands the importance of a strong support system and the role education plays in shaping one’s future. He is very enthusiastic and eager to study Tourism and Travel Operations.

    His goal is to leverage this education to create lasting change in his community. “Education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and I am committed to helping other students during my college breaks through community service projects and mentoring students.” Demka shares.

  • “I am excited to explore new academic interests, particularly in community health.”
    Faiza Sialo Lolosoli, from Lerata, Archers Post, Samburu.

    Faiza Lolsoli’s journey is deeply-rooted in her family, especially from her father who displayed resilience and positivity in the face of many challenges. Growing up with four brothers and two sisters, Faiza learned the importance of hard work, integrity and kindness which are qualities that continue to guide her as she navigates her education and life.

    She would have loved to meet Leonardo da Vinci because his blending of art and science has long fascinated her. Da Vinci's innovative mindset has inspired Fazia to balance creative thinking with practical solutions.

    Driven by an energy for positive change, Fazia is studying for her Certificate in Community Health at the ICS Technical College in Nairobi. She has a vision to design and implement health programs that benefit her community. Additionally, she believes improving access to quality education and resources is the key to empowering individuals and reducing inequalities. 

    Through her efforts, Faiza hopes to advocate for preventive care and policies that will enhance the well-being of her community and ultimately foster a healthier, more empowered, society.

  • “My mother always inspired me because she is a hard-working, motivational figure despite being physically challenged. My mother’s perseverance and strength have been a source of encouragement that has shaped my outlook on life and pushed me to work hard towards my goals through education.”
    Francisca Brenda, from Treetop, Archers Post, Samburu

    Francisca, who has two sisters, will be the first girl in her village to become a high school teacher.  She is pursuing a Bachelor of Education in Arts at Kenyatta University in Nairobi. She is grateful for a chance to follow her dreams, but admits feeling nervous about the challenges ahead. Despite this, her desire to succeed keeps her motivated.

    If given a chance, Francisca would love to meet Ken Walibora, the celebrated Kenyan author whose work and life have greatly influenced many. Francisca admires his dedication and impact and hopes to one day make a similar contribution to her community through her education and hard work.

    Her award of the Empowering Livelihood Kenya Foundation scholarship has poised Francisca to use her education to uplift not only her family, but also her broader community by demonstrating the power of hard work, resilience and service instilled in her by her family.

  • “My future dreams include working in community health addressing critical local needs, including advocating for those with disabilities, and uplifting disadvantaged families.”
    Francisca Karino from Lampaa, Il Polei, Laikipia

    Francisca Karino is a determined young woman from a family of three brothers and two sisters. She has always found inspiration from her parents because they have supported her personal growth and education. This played a central role in shaping who she is today.

    Her scholarship from Empowering Livelihood Kenya Foundation has brought her immense happiness as it allows her to pursue higher education. She is working toward a Certificate in Community Health and Development at the Imperial College of Medical and Health and Science in Thika. Her field of studies deeply resonates with her dedication to the vitality of her community.

    It was a moment of great pride when she successfully completed secondary school, and the scholarship from the Empowering Livelihood Kenya allowed her to overcome financial difficulties to attend college. This milestone has fueled her desire to give back to her community, particularly helping to support women’s groups. She hopes to educate these women on how to keep their group records on microcredit.

    She also believes that by modeling her service to her community, she can encourage the next generation of young girls’ to contribute to positive changes in their community.

  • “I am inspired by the late Professor Wangari Maathai, who championed environmental causes. I have been passionate about food production for years and I want to address significant gaps in the culinary profession within my community because there are very few skilled chefs.”
    Hudson Mukondo, from Ldupai Village, Il Polei, Laikipia

    Hudson comes from a family of three brothers and two sisters. He has always found strength and support of his older sister, Monica. As the sole supporter in his life, Monica has been a dedicated exemplar by stepping into a parental role and encouraging Hudson in his dreams despite the challenges they have faced as a family.

    He is excited about embarking on his educational journey to obtain his Certificate of Hospitality at the Laikipia Skills and Talent Training Institute in Nanyuki. Although he is nervous about starting a new chapter in his life outside of his familiar village, Hudson is determined to succeed.

    Hudson aspires to empower youth through education and training. He envisions himself becoming a mentor and a role model for hopeful cooks in his community. Through his education, he hopes to uplift others by fostering local talent and providing guidance to those who lack access to proper training. Ultimately, Hudson hopes to break the cycle of poverty.

    The Empowering Livelihood Kenya Foundation scholarship has given Hudson a unique opportunity and he is determined to make the most of it by contributing meaningfully to his community.

  • “Education is a powerful tool that can uplift individuals and transform communities. The most important change needed in my community is to ensure equal access to both men and women.”
    Janic Kimath from Jerusalem, Archers Post, Samburu.

    Meet Janic Kimathi, a young man known for his enthusiasm for cooking and who has a strong desire to impact his community. Janic cannot wait to begin his Diploma in Culinary Arts at the Nairobi Institute of Business Studies.

    Janic has one brother and a very supportive family that has always believed in his aspirations. Many people have had a profound influence on him and they have been a guiding light through his education by encouraging him to strive for excellence and overcome challenges.

    If given the opportunity, Janic would love to meet Elon Musk. Musk’s perseverance and determination to turn innovative ideas into reality inspire Janic to push through difficulties in his own life.

    Through his college education, Janic aims to introduce people to new and diverse culinary traditions by incorporating various ingredients and techniques into his creations. By sharing his newfound culinary knowledge of different cultures he hopes to contribute positively and give back to his community.

    Francisca Karino is a determined young woman from a family of three brothers and two sisters. She has always found inspiration from her parents because they have supported her personal growth and education. This played a central role in shaping who she is today.

    Her scholarship from Empowering Livelihood Kenya Foundation has brought her immense happiness as it allows her to pursue higher education. She is working toward a Certificate in Community Health and Development at the Imperial College of Medical and Health and Science in Thika. Her field of studies deeply resonates with her dedication to the vitality of her community.

    It was a moment of great pride when she successfully completed secondary school, and the scholarship from the Empowering Livelihood Kenya allowed her to overcome financial difficulties to attend college. This milestone has fueled her desire to give back to her community, particularly helping to support women’s groups. She hopes to educate these women on how to keep their group records on microcredit.

    She also believes that by modeling her service to her community, she can encourage the next generation of young girls’ to contribute to positive changes in their community.

  • “The life-changing impact of the Empowering Livelihood Kenya Foundation scholarship will allow me the opportunity to follow my passion and make a meaningful difference in my community.”
    Martha Naidimwa Lekilwai, from Lerata, from Archers Post, Samburu

    Martha Naidimwa Lekilwai is embarking on an exciting academic journey by pursuing a Certificate of Perioperative Theater Technology at the Nyahuru Medical Training College in Nyahuru. She is driven by her deep commitment to surgery and patient care.

    She comes from a large family of two brothers and four sisters and she credits her aunt as the most influential figure in her life. Her aunt's  unfaltering belief in Martha’s potential has helped her push through moments of self-doubt and encouraged her to pursue her dreams.

    As she begins her college life, Martha’s decision to study perioperative theater technology is fueled by the shortage of skilled technicians in her community. She hopes to improve patient care by ensuring surgeries are performed safely and efficiently, ultimately reducing risks and saving lives.

    Her journey and ambitions are a testament to the life-changing impact of the Empowering Livelihood Kenya Foundation scholarship program, which has provided Martha with the opportunity to fulfil her potential and make a significant difference in her community.

Working in Conjunction with Pastoralist Child Foundation and the Samburu Youth Education Fund.