Empowering women is not just a societal goal—it’s a transformative process that builds better nations. The Lioness Arise program is dedicated to equipping young women rugby players in Kenya with life skills, business acumen, and personal development tools, ensuring they thrive both on and off the field.

Kenya’s national women’s rugby team, the Lionesses, has risen to remarkable heights, becoming African champions and competing on the global stage. But behind their triumphs lies a struggle—many of these athletes, hailing from Nairobi’s informal settlements, rely solely on rugby for income. They balance their passion for the sport with the harsh realities of daily life, facing economic challenges that threaten their dreams.

The Lioness Arise program, tailored for women aged 18-35, addresses these challenges head-on. Delivered in two phases, the program first focuses on personal development and core life skills—such as self-awareness, financial literacy, and personal branding. The second phase shifts to business development and entrepreneurship, empowering the women to secure sustainable livelihoods beyond rugby.

Throughout the program, participants engaged in interactive sessions covering topics like goal setting, cognitive abilities, and communication skills. The sessions were designed not just to impart knowledge but to instill confidence, build resilience, and foster a sense of community among the Lionesses.

One of the standout moments was the creation of personal vision boards. As the women mapped out their aspirations for the next five years, their faces lit up with determination and hope. This exercise was a turning point for many, sparking a newfound clarity in their personal and professional goals.