Meeting the Kenyan “Mamas”: Takeaways from Our Field Trip

Project Tres volunteers, Amanda and Valen, together with Farida and the Mamas.

Team Project Tres began the year in a way that was anything but ordinary. We packed our bags and set off on a transformative field trip to Kenya, not just to visit, but to listen, learn, and connect. Our mission was to dive deeper into the realities of the incredible women we work with in Kenya, the “Mamas,” and to strengthen the project that has become a lifeline for so many.

Among our traveling team was Farida, a pillar of Project Tres and a guiding force behind our global women’s initiatives. For years, she has worked closely with the Mamas but only through screens and messages. This was her first time solo travelling internationally from her hometown in India. Her first time stepping onto Kenyan soil. And, most importantly, her first time meeting the women she has spent so long supporting. “I told you I would be there,” she said on their first interaction, her voice thick with emotion as she wrapped each in a hug. A testament to the deep bonds we built virtually, now solidified in reality.

What does Project Tres mean to you?

Over the course of our visit, we sat down with the Mamas to hear their stories. The conversations were raw, open, emotive and fun. We asked them: What does Project Tres mean to you? And their answers serve as affirmations that reinforce why we do what we do.

• Economic emancipation: The opportunity to earn and build financial independence

• Mental health support: Engaging activities serve as a therapeutic outlet

• A sense of belonging and community: A place where they feel valued and supported, have fun, laugh and decompress together 

• Job creation opportunities: Skills development that leads to real and sustainable work

• Open learning opportunities: A chance to acquire new skills from volunteers

• A necessary distraction: A safe space to be heard and understood, away from hardships such as poverty and housing insecurity

Looking to the future

With our reflections in mind, we set the stage for the year ahead. Our discussions with the mamas focused on three key areas of development:

1. Women-to-Women Workshops

We are excited to launch a series of monthly workshops designed to foster community-driven skill sharing. With Farida's guidance, we aim to leverage each woman's unique talents, creating a sustainable learning ecosystem that transcends geographical boundaries.

2. Skills & Job Training

Our mission is clear: economic emancipation must be sustainable. We are deepening our commitment to equipping the Mamas with the tools they need. This means:

✔️ Assigning structured roles to ensure fair participation.

✔️ Expanding financial literacy programs and savings opportunities.

✔️ Investing in critical resources: furniture, workshop materials, and digital tools.

3. Affordable Healthcare Access with SHOFCO

One of our biggest wins was exploring affordable healthcare options for all the Mamas and their children. Through SHOFCO’s program, healthcare access became a tangible reality, an initiative that was met with overwhelming enthusiasm. They also provide technical career training, female capacitation, counselling and a safe-house for those looking to escape their situations.

Last but certainly not least, we also welcomed two new women, Pauline and Catherine into our community.

Hi from the Mamas & Farida!

Thanks for coming along for the ride

In more ways than one. We left Kenya with full hearts, renewed purpose, and an unshakable belief that change is possible. If you’re interested in supporting this project, please feel free to donate. Your donation can create meaningful change, sustain work opportunities and provide a safe environment, food and healthcare for 28 Mamas and their families.

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