Training female car mechanics in Nairobi slum

Dear Supporters of Safe Spaces,

When Mary talks about her future today, she speaks with a confidence that was difficult to imagine just a few years ago. Growing up in Mathare, financial challenges forced her to leave school before completing her education. Like many young women in the community, she spent years wondering what opportunities, if any, would be available to her. With few employment prospects and increasing responsibilities at home, she feared her future would be limited by circumstances beyond her control. Joining the Safe Spaces Female Auto Mechanics Program gave her a chance to rewrite that story. Today, she spends her days learning vehicle servicing, diagnostics and repair, building practical skills while gaining the confidence to pursue a career in a field traditionally dominated by men.

Mary often speaks about wanting to earn a stable income, support her family and create a better life for herself. For her, learning auto mechanics is about much more than fixing vehicles. It is about independence, dignity and proving to herself that she is capable of achieving goals she once thought were out of reach. She is one of 20 young women currently enrolled in the program—10 pursuing a Certificate in Auto Mechanics and 10 pursuing a Diploma. Through daily theory and practical lessons, mentorship and exposure to professional garages, the trainees continue to build the technical and life skills needed to transition into meaningful employment.

The hopes and determination we see in Mary are reflected across the program. Many of the trainees come from similar backgrounds, having faced interrupted education, poverty and limited opportunities. Some are already mothers, while others help support siblings and parents. What they share is a desire to build a different future. Thanks to your support, that future feels increasingly possible. We are deeply grateful for your partnership, which continues to provide young women in Mathare with a second chance to develop skills, earn a livelihood and become role models for others in their community.

Thank You!

The Safe Spaces Female Auto Mechanics Program continues to challenge gender stereotypes and equip young women from Mathare with technical skills for sustainable employment. Currently, 20 girls are enrolled in the program-10 pursuing a Certificate in Auto Mechanics and 10 pursuing a Diploma. Classes run Monday to Friday, combining theory, hands-on practical training, mentorship and industry exposure to ensure graduates are fully prepared for employment in the automotive sector.

Since the last report, we have continued strengthening partnerships with local garages and automotive businesses, increasing internship and job placement opportunities for our trainees. Alumni remain actively involved, mentoring current students weekly and offering real-world insight into navigating a male-dominated field. To date, over 70 girls have graduated from the program, with more than 90% successfully employed, many now living independently outside the slums and supporting their families.

Lucy, a current student, shares: “I long to earn my first income when I finish my course. I dream of renting my own house, paying my bills and supporting my family. I hope to live a better life away from the slums.” For Lucy and many others, this training is more than a course—it is a pathway to dignity, self-reliance and economic independence.

Your continued support makes this transformation possible. Because of you, young women who once had limited options are becoming skilled professionals breadwinners and role models in their community. 

• Auto_Mechanics_program.pdf (PDF)