Strengthening Impact Through Partnership at the Arise Centre

On 17 June, the Arise Centre welcomed Molly Ochar, Homa Bay County Health Coordinator, together with Innocent Wanjala and Michael Kadasia from Marie Stopes Kenya, for a courtesy visit to learn more about the Centre's programmes, engage with trainees, meet women entrepreneurs and see how practical skills are creating pathways to sustainable livelihoods.

Representatives from the Homa Bay County Department of Health and Marie Stopes Kenya during their courtesy visit to the Arise Centre.

During the visit, the team gained insight into the work taking place at the Arise Centre and the impact of its programmes. Through conversations, demonstrations and shared experiences, they witnessed the dedication behind the Centre's work and how collaboration with local partners is helping strengthen opportunities for women and young people. The visit reinforced the shared commitment between Arise Centre and Marie Stopes Kenya to support initiatives that contribute to stronger, more resilient communities.

One of the highlights of the visit was meeting the eight women producing reusable dignity pads at the Arise Centre. The team commended the quality of the products, the materials used and the high production standards maintained throughout the manufacturing process.

A trainee introduces the visiting team to the reusable dignity pads.

Maintaining these standards has been an important part of the women's journey, contributing to the reusable dignity pads achieving certification from the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), the national body responsible for setting and ensuring quality standards for products in Kenya. This milestone reflects their commitment to producing safe, reliable products while strengthening confidence in their enterprise and creating new opportunities for growth.

As a gesture of encouragement and support, the visiting team also purchased reusable dignity pads, recognising the women's dedication and the value of their work. The purchase was a meaningful affirmation of their efforts and the progress they continue to make.

The visitors also spent time with trainees at the Arise Centre, listening to their experiences and learning more about the skills they are developing through the Centre's programmes.

Molly Ochar, Homa Bay County Health Coordinator, interacts with trainees as they put their practical skills into practice.

Their visit was especially meaningful as it built on an existing partnership between Marie Stopes Kenya and the Arise Centre. In October 2025, Marie Stopes Kenya supported 20 adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) to participate in the Start Small Masterclass Programme. The visit provided an opportunity to strengthen this collaboration and recognise the continued impact of investing in initiatives that support young women's growth and development.

Strong partnerships create opportunities that go far beyond a single visit. By investing in women-led enterprises, supporting skills development and creating spaces where young people can learn and grow, partners like Marie Stopes Kenya are helping build stronger communities where potential can become reality. Every product created, every skill developed and every step forward reflects the power of investing in people and local solutions.

You can be part of this change too. Your support can help the Arise Centre continue equipping women and young people with the skills, resources and opportunities they need to build more secure futures.

Want to create more opportunities at the Arise Centre? Donate today and support our work: https://www.goodhub.com/go/arisecentrepfp