My name is Juliet Achieng, a 30-year-old mother of two, Joy and Meshack. I was only able to study up to class 8 because my parents could not afford to take me further in school. After completing class 8, I was fortunate to get a sponsorship in 2020 to join St. Anthony Technical College, where I studied Hairdressing and Beauty.

While in school, I came into contact with the AOSK-SLYI team through youth forums, sports activities, and even during their evaluation visits. When I completed my course in 2021, they supported me to start my own salon business called “Marion Beauty Parlour.

This business has enabled me to provide for my children and my family by paying school fees, meeting daily needs, and reinvesting in the salon through purchasing products. Like any other business, I have faced challenges, such as a lack of customers at times and experiencing family difficulties, but I have remained determined to keep the business that I rely on standing strong.

I began my salon in Lwak, later moved it to Nairobi near the University of Nairobi in 2023, and eventually relocated it to Kisumu Town. The Nairobi University area was seasonal; during long holidays, there were no customers, while Kisumu provided more consistent business.

Through my work, I have trained four young people in hairdressing and employed two staff members in my shop. I can pay their wages, cover rent, and still support my family.

To be honest, AOSK-SLYI has been a great blessing in my life. They helped me discover who I am and what I am capable of. At the time they found me, I was experiencing a lot of abuse in my marriage, but through the business they helped me start, my life was transformed. Today, I live in peace, and I look forward to growing my business further so that I can become a role model to other young people.

I sincerely thank Sr. Pauline of St. Anthony Technical College, AOSK-SLYI, and the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation for completely transforming my life.