Riziki Kaingu’s story is one of sheer determination and unyielding hope. Born and raised in Mariakani, Kilifi County, Riziki is the second of three children. Despite her family’s financial constraints preventing her from attending secondary school, Riziki’s determination to secure a better future never waned. In October 2019, she took a leap of faith and traveled to Saudi Arabia to work as a housekeeper, hoping to save enough money to change her life.
During her time in Saudi Arabia, Riziki’s resolve only strengthened. She diligently saved her earnings with a clear goal in mind: to return home and pursue a course in Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy. In January 2021, fresh from her overseas stint, Riziki enrolled at the Mabati Technical Training Institute. Her passion and dedication saw her through the intensive training, and by June 2022, she had completed her course, equipped with the skills she needed to embark on a new journey.
The skills Riziki acquired at MTTI were a game-changer. With the support of friends and her savings, she bought essential items and started a small salon in Mariakani. Today, Riziki’s salon is thriving. She beams with pride and happiness as she reflects on her journey – from working as a house help in a foreign land to owning a business that sustains her and her family.
But Riziki’s dreams don’t end here. She plans to diversify her business by selling cosmetic products alongside her hairdressing services. More importantly, she aspires to open her doors to other needy girls in her community, offering them internships and apprenticeships at her salon. Riziki believes in giving back, and she wants to be an inspiration for young girls who, like her, dream of a better future.
While at MTTI, Riziki didn’t just learn technical skills. She gained valuable entrepreneurial lessons and soft skills that have been instrumental in managing her business. Her interactions with people from diverse backgrounds at the institute boosted her confidence, enabling her to handle clients and business challenges with grace and poise.
Riziki’s message to young girls is powerful and clear: “Work hard and don’t view marriage as the only solution to financial problems. Empower yourself with skills that can provide a decent and sustainable income. Marriage should be about partnership and support, and it’s crucial to have a means of income to contribute to that partnership.”
Riziki Kaingu’s journey from a housekeeper in Saudi Arabia to a successful entrepreneur in Mariakani is a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of education and skill acquisition. Her story is not just a success story; it’s an inspiration for countless others who face similar challenges. Through her hard work and vision, Riziki has not only changed her life but is poised to uplift her community, proving that with the right skills and mindset, anything is possible.
Support a student at MTTI: https://www.globalgiving.org/projects/employment-opportunities-for-500-youth-in-kilifi/
Nicely written, empowering women to be financially independent
Thank You Christabel!
Nice one
Thank You Jahnert!
Are these only for MTTI graduates? I’ve been following you
Hello Lauren, Yes, the success stories are only for MTTI graduates who’ve secured jobs or started their own businesses. Please keep checking our blog section we post articles on Environment, Health, and Shelter too.
I think this is a good example of inspiration and will empower many young adults
Hello Sapna, thank you for your feedback,
Yes, empowering young people is one of our goals at Safal MRM Foundation.
Kazi nzuri Safal, njia bora ya kusaidia vijana kujitegemea.
Asaante sana kwa maoni yako Joy Ann!
This is a good way of giving back to the community. Bravo
Thank you for your feedback Aziza! We appreciate you taking the time to read more about our success stories.