Kenya: Safaricom launches Hook Circle bootcamps to empower youth in technology, career development, and culture

Safaricom has launched a nationwide series of upskilling bootcamps under its youth initiative, Safaricom Hook, called the Safaricom Hook Circle. These events are designed to empower young people by focusing on three key areas: technology, careers, and culture.

The first bootcamp took place at Chuka University in Tharaka Nithi County, attracting over 4,000 participants from the university and nearby regions. Attendees engaged in masterclasses conducted by a variety of expert partners, enhancing their skills and knowledge.

Safaricom Hook Circle bootcamps launched to empower youth in technology, careers & culture

“Safaricom Hook Circle aims to connect youth all over Kenya to opportunities that will propel them to succeed in their area of interest. In Collaboration with our partners, we will provide youth in Kenya with the opportunity to learn relevant topics in financial literacy, tech-forward upskilling, career readiness and culture as a form of expression and income,” said Fawzia Ali, Chief Consumer Business Officer, Safaricom PLC.

In the Culture Hook, which seeks to provide youth access to their passion points, partners such as Elevate, Baze Radio, Boomplay and Artfit gave masterclasses on how to monetize content or break into the art and fashion scene.

Under the Technology Hook, the bootcamp unpacked skills for a tech future, led by partners including Power Learn Project, Avunja Mobile and Transsion.

The Career Hook, which seeks to empower the youth to chase their hustle or fulfil their career ambitions, saw partners such as Brighter Monday, Wowzi, Trace Academia, ABSA and Twiva provide masterclasses.

Acknowledging the importance of mental health and financial literacy, the bootcamp included sessions by Chiromo Hospital, Absa’s Ready to Work Program, and Old Mutual.

Throughout the Safaricom Hook Circle series, 600 youth are set to receive technology scholarships from the Power Learn Project. Additionally, 4,000 participants will undergo career training, with 15 internships and 60 CV upgrades provided by Brighter Monday.

Transsion will support the initiative by offering device financing for Tecno, Infinix, and Itel devices, while Twiva will create over 3,000 influencer sales jobs. The youth will also benefit from mentorship in technology, fashion, music, and other creative fields.

Launched in 2023, Safaricom Hook is designed to cater to the aspirations of Gen Z, providing tailored offerings through Safaricom’s mobile network. Young people aged 10 to 24 can join the platform via the Safaricom Hook app or by dialing *555#.