As a rising web developer in Kenya, Hadija Hamisi is breaking ground in a male-dominated industry. She grew up in Mombasa, Kenya, and was dedicated to her education from an early age. Inspired by her cousin’s success in the medical field, Hadija pursued a diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics at Thika School of Medical and Health Science. Yet, her path shifted when she encountered the Ajira Digital Program, an example of how technology can open doors to new opportunities and underscores the value of investing in young talent.
“I’m a hard-working woman who loves to learn. I enjoy developing new skills and building on what I already know.”
Pathways to Employment
Gender disparity exists globally in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers. In Kenya, only 21.4 percent of STEM professionals are women. Addressing this issue, the Ajira Digital Program, led by Kenya's Ministry of Information, Communication & Digital Economy in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and other stakeholders, aims to empower over one million young people annually and close the gender gap in STEM. It equips them with skills and creates pathways to digitally enabled employment in the gig and freelancing economy.
Through the AjiraForShe Program, Hadija joined the first cohort of women gaining access to digital skills training at Madrasa-Tul-Falaah. This is one of the Ajira program’s Information and Communications Technology hubs in Kibera, an Islamic learning centre with a rich history that serves as a cultural cornerstone for the Nubian and Muslim communities. The hub provides training resources critical to bridging the gender gap in the digital industry and enables independence for young women by offering new income avenues. The training is implemented with support from various partners, including the Kenya Private Sector Alliance and eMobilis. It provides hands-on experience, equipping participants with job-ready skills, including web design, transcription, and digital marketing. It also fosters a supportive community, inspiring women like Hadija to step confidently into the gig and freelancing economy.
“Before joining the Ajira for She Program, I was mostly at home, but I volunteered and worked in hospitals to gain experience and skills."
Continuing Transformation
With guidance from her mentor, Mwalimu Zena, Hadija completed her training and quickly transitioned to freelancing. She began building websites for businesses in Nairobi, including one for her mother’s company, which increased the business's visibility and growth. Her success in transitioning to work and her ability to support her family strengthened her passion for web development and inspired her to contribute to continuing transformation. Today, she mentors young women and advocates for gender equality in STEM fields.
Hadija’s journey exemplifies the life-changing potential of education and access to employment opportunities. It reflects the essence of the Ajira Digital Program and illuminates the path to progress for young women in Kenya.
“Ajira for She has transformed my life in so many ways. Now, I can earn from anywhere, even from home. Through Ajira, I discovered how to leverage the internet to make an income.”
