Nyalim's Journey to Independence

Nyalim Maker, 22, was only one years old when she and her older sister fled their home country of South Sudan because of war. When the siblings arrived in Kenya, Nyalim’s sister became her primary caregiver. Nyalim attended school through the support of well-wishers and completed her high school education in 2021. Through a referral, she successfully applied to join RefuSHE’s digital training program in 2022.

During the course, Nyalim learned a number of digital skills, including data entry, transcription, translation, annotation, digital marketing, image tagging, and more. She also learned how to create and manage an online profile on digital freelance platforms like Upwork to competitively bid for online work and earn money to support herself.

Nyalim decided to enroll in a beauty course at Vera Beauty College in Nairobi in order to achieve greater financial independence and gain new skills. With funding support from UNHCR Kenya, she underwent training in skincare treatments, various cosmetology techniques, makeup artistry, and hairdressing skills. After completing the course, Nyalim apprenticed for one month and soon after secured employment at a busy salon.

Nyalim earns a 50% commission on her services and sometimes receives tips from satisfied clients. In a good week, she typically makes between KES 2,000-3,000. While Nyalim recognizes that her current income may not cover all her expenses, it helps her to pay for essentials and reduces her dependency on others.

Today, Nyalim has gained her own client base and looks forward to providing mobile salon services that offer convenience to her valued customers. In the long run, she dreams of opening a salon of her own.

Reflecting on her journey, Nyalim feels that the opportunity to study a beauty course has given her an advantage. Although she had initially gravitated towards a career in human resources while in high school, Nyalim recognizes how her aspirations have evolved over time. As she gains more experience, Nyalim sees that starting her own venture is a natural next step towards economic independence. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of embracing opportunities and shaping one's destiny.