Donner aux sœurs catholiques les moyens de diriger des entreprises sociales durables : Réflexions de la cérémonie de remise des diplômes à l'échelle du SEP - Kenya

The Social Enterprise Programme (SEP) Scale graduation ceremony in Kenya marked a momentous occasion for the participants of the Sisters Blended Value Project (SBVP). The event celebrated the culmination of months of hard work and dedication by the Catholic Sisters who had been trained to transform their ministries into sustainable social enterprises. The SEP Scale program, which has been running across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zambia, equips Catholic Sisters with the skills and knowledge to scale impactful social enterprises that serve their communities.

During the graduation ceremony, key speakers shared their reflections on the progress of the programme and encouraged the participants to continue their journey of innovation and service. Dr. Angela Ndunge, the SBVP Project Investigator, was one of the first to speak at the event. She praised the sisters for their hard work and dedication throughout the program. “We are here to celebrate you for the accomplishment and the dedicated efforts you have put into your learning journey,” Dr. Ndunge said, highlighting the resilience and determination shown by the participants. She went on to provide some impressive statistics about the program’s reach, noting that SBVP had trained 292 sisters in 2022, 306 in 2023, and 92 so far in 2024. The programme’s impact across four countries is a testament to the importance of building capacity among religious women, enabling them to lead transformative change in their communities.

During his speech, Dr. Caesar Mwangi, Dean of Strathmore Business School, conveyed his enthusiasm for the programme and its distinctive focus on empowering Catholic Sisters. He highlighted how unique this initiative is, stating that the programme is one of a kind. “I have been in business for many years, and I must say I have never seen a programme directed at sisters.” Dr. Mwangi praised the sisters for their bravery in overcoming the challenges they encountered and acknowledged the importance of their work. “I want to congratulate you because I know new things are not always easy, but you have taken the challenge to face your fears,” he commended. He welcomed the graduates to the dynamic Strathmore University’s alumni network, aptly named the “agents of change,” stressing the value of ongoing support and networking opportunities as they continue to develop their social enterprises.

The journey of the sisters throughout their training was one of growth and transformation. The significance of the capacity-building efforts of SBVP was emphasized, particularly in how the program is designed to equip Catholic Sisters with the skills necessary to effectively manage their ministries and social enterprises. “The process you have undergone has been enlightening, pushing you to go beyond the limitations you have had so far and spread your wings,” said Sr. Bridgitta Samba, Secretary General of the Associations of Consecrated Women of Eastern and Central Africa (ACWECA). The partnership between ACWECA and Strathmore Business School seeks to encourage a shift in how Catholic Sisters approach their work, promoting the idea that they are not only serving but leading enterprises that contribute to the broader transformation of society. Through their initiatives, the sisters are encouraged to uphold the dignity of every individual and work towards the advancement of humanity.

The graduates were reminded of their new role as alumni of Strathmore University and the responsibilities that come with it. “Tell me who your friends are, and I will tell you who you are. You have become the Strathmore University Alumni,” said Dr. Elizabeth Gachenga, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Strathmore University, as she emphasized the importance of their new identity. Dr. Gachenga encouraged the sisters to view their acquired skills not just as tools for personal and community advancement but as part of a larger, global mission: the re-evangelization of the world. “The success of the enterprise in your community will surely contribute to the re-evangelization of the world,” she added, calling on the sisters to reflect on the fidelity of their work and the vital role they play in serving both God and humanity through their social enterprises.

The achievements of the SBVP over the past three years were celebrated, with admiration coming from Rev. Dr. Silvanus Ochuodho, Pro-Chancellor of Strathmore University. “In just three years, over six hundred sisters have participated in this program, learning how to transform social ministries into sustainable social enterprises,” he remarked, highlighting the program’s far-reaching impact. Rev. Dr. Ochuodho praised the evolution of the participants, who had transitioned from simply serving to serving with strategy, a testament to their commitment and innovation. He noted how the sisters had redefined what it means to be a Catholic nun in the modern world, stating, “You have shown that social entrepreneurship is not only a career path; it’s a calling—a way to live your faith in action.” As he concluded, Rev. Dr. Ochuodho encouraged the graduates to dream big, take risks, and continue innovating, reminding them that they are supported by a strong community. “You have a community of many cheering you on. Lean on each other, support one another, and continue to grow,” he urged.

The SEP Scale programme has left an indelible mark on the sisters, empowering them to become architects of sustainable change. With the skills and tools gained through SBVP, the participants are now equipped to ensure their work thrives long after the grant period concludes, making a lasting impact. The graduation ceremony was more than a celebration of individual accomplishments—it was a powerful reminder of the greater mission that these consecrated women are now part of transforming society through the synergy of faith, innovation, and service. As Rev. Dr. Silvanus Ochuodho put it, “May your work continue to reflect the love of God and the spirit of service that defines your vocation.” The future promises to be one of sustainable growth, innovation, and hope for all.