At Maseno University, a quiet revolution is taking place—one bead at a time. Renca Jewels, founded by Joy Achungo, is transforming the lives of young mothers by equipping them with essential skills to navigate economic hardships while fostering a supportive community.

Balancing academia and motherhood presents unique challenges, especially for young mothers facing financial constraints. Recognizing this, Renca Jewels provides a practical solution—training in beadwork, financial literacy, and communication skills. Through handcrafted jewelry sales, these women generate sustainable income, easing their financial burdens and enabling them to support themselves and their children.

Beyond economic empowerment, Renca Jewels fosters a sense of community, where young mothers can connect, share experiences, and support each other. This safe space is crucial in addressing mental health challenges that arise from single parenthood and financial instability.

Despite its successes, the initiative faces a major challenge—securing a dedicated training space. Many young mothers struggle to attend sessions due to a lack of child-friendly venues. To address this, Renca Jewels is actively seeking partnerships to provide a conducive learning environment where mothers can participate without distractions.

Since its inception, Renca Jewels has worked with 10 young mothers, not just equipping them with skills, but offering them hope. These women are now selling their handmade jewelry, transforming their craftsmanship into a sustainable source of income. Some have even started covering personal expenses, gradually gaining financial independence.

Looking ahead, Renca Jewels is planning an advocacy event in March to train young mothers on writing petitions and memorandums, empowering them to engage policymakers and push for systemic change.

More than a beadwork project, Renca Jewels is a movement for gender justice, economic empowerment, and social transformation. As it grows, the goal is to expand its reach, impacting even more young mothers in universities and beyond. By providing a platform for skill-building and advocacy, Renca Jewels is paving the way for a future where young mothers are not just surviving—but thriving.