Empowering Youth Beyond School: A Focus on HopeCore’s Youth Center

In Kenya, the period after high school is one of the least discussed stages in a young person’s life.

It is a major achievement to complete high school. But once the excitement fades, many young people are left in a quiet and uncertain space. For some, this period involves waiting for college admission decisions. For others, financial barriers prevent them from pursuing further education, pushing them into the job market without the technical skills needed to secure stable employment.

It is a period that can stretch for months or even years, and it is often filled with uncertainty, confusion, and the pressure to “figure life out.”

In Kenya, this reality affects many young people. About 22% of high school graduates, nearly 200,000 every year, do not transition into higher education. Many end up in the NEET cycle (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), affecting about 27.8% of youth between the ages of 15 and 24.

But this period doesn’t have to define their future.

It is a defining transition from teenagehood to adulthood, uncertain but full of possibility. With the right support, it can become a foundation for hope, growth, and direction.

That’s where HopeCore’s Youth Center comes in, helping young people turn uncertainty into opportunity.

Empowering Young People to Succeed

Our Youth Center, also known as the Barry Wood Youth Center, is a youth-friendly resource hub established in 2019 to support young people 15 and older as they navigate life after school. Through practical skills, guidance, and access to opportunities, the center helps young people build confidence and take meaningful steps toward their future.

Since its establishment, our center has reached 34,368 young people, providing opportunities to learn new skills, access services, and explore pathways for personal and professional growth.

One of the most popular programs is basic Information and Communication Technology (ICT) training, a one-month course that equips young people with essential digital skills and awards a certificate upon completion.

"Digital skills are no longer optional. Our computer training program helps young people build the knowledge and confidence they need to access information and pursue opportunities." - Annritah Kendi, Youth Center Officer.

Our center also provides career guidance, helping young people understand different pathways available to them and make informed decisions about their future. Beyond technical skills, young people participate in life skills and health education sessions covering topics such as mental well-being, sexual and reproductive health, and drug and substance abuse. These sessions create a safe space for learning, reflection, and personal growth.

For many, one of the most valuable resources at the center is the free Wi-Fi, which provides access to online learning, job opportunities, and information that many young people would otherwise struggle to access.

“I joined the Youth Center in 2022, and it has truly shaped my life. It helped me discover my potential, apply for jobs, and eventually secure one,” says Tony.

Creating More Opportunities for Youth

As the needs of young people continue to evolve, so do the opportunities we provide. In recent years, the center has introduced new initiatives designed to help young people learn, grow, and discover their potential in different ways.

In 2025, we launched the Youth Excursion Initiative to take learning beyond the center. Through hiking, outdoor adventures, and other hands-on experiences, young people build practical life skills while learning in a fun and interactive setting.

"The outreach activities are enjoyable, but they also teach us important lessons about teamwork, decision making, and confidence," says Carmey.

During school holidays, the program also reaches younger adolescents aged 12 and above, providing age-appropriate guidance, counselling, and life skills education as they transition into their teenage years. Community Health Promoters (CHPs) provide follow-up support, helping ensure they continue making informed choices as they grow.

Recognizing that young people often find it easier to talk to someone who understands what they are going through, we have trained 20 Youth Peer-to-Peer (YPP) counselors to provide support and encouragement to their fellow youth.

To expand skills training, this year we have introduced crochet classes. For many young people, the sessions have become an opportunity to explore creativity, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance.

Meet Glory. Since joining the crochet classes this year, she has learned to make handmade items such as caps, scarves, and dresses, turning a new skill into a source of confidence and income.

“Learning crochet has given me more than a skill. It has shown me that I can be productive and earn from my creativity. I encourage other young people to learn new skills and discover their potential,” says Glory.

Building on this momentum, we are set to introduce beauty classes as part of our expanding skills training programs, creating even more opportunities for young people to explore their talents and develop income-generating skills.

We believe every young person deserves the chance to discover what they are capable of achieving. Through skills training, mentorship, counselling, health education, and access to opportunity, we remain committed to helping young people build brighter futures and reach their full potential.