May Your Jar Never Run Dry: ACWECA’s Blessing for the SBVP Class of 2024

The 2024 graduation ceremony for the Sisters Blended Value Project (SBVP) marked a significant milestone for Catholic Sisters across the region. They celebrated the completion of an intensive training program aimed at strengthening their leadership and capacity to run sustainable social enterprises.

In her keynote address, Sr. Bridgita S. Mwawasi, SSJ, Secretary General of the Association of Sisterhoods of Kenya (ACWECA), reflected on the transformative journey the participants had undertaken. “This has been a journey with purpose,” Sr. Mwawasi said. “One that, had you not embarked on, you would not be standing here today as graduates. Thank you for accepting the challenge to learn, grow, and lead through the Sisters Blended Value Project.”

Sr. Bridgita emphasized that the SBVP was more than just a learning experience; it was a unique opportunity that enabled sisters to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to manage and expand their social enterprises effectively. “Many of you have already been running your enterprises with valuable knowledge and skills,” she noted, “but this training has pushed you to go beyond your limits, empowering you to manage your resources better, fundraise for your projects, and work towards their long-term sustainability.”

SBVP is part of a broader effort to help Catholic Sisters shift their approach to business and social enterprise. Sr. Bridgita highlighted the importance of networking and collaboration, noting that the partnerships formed during the program would help the graduates continue to grow and lead in the years to come. “We envision a society where Catholic Sisters are uniquely impacting their communities and influencing the advancement of humanity,” she said, underscoring the vital role that Sisters play in uplifting their societies.

Addressing the graduates directly, the secretary general reminded sisters of the immense responsibility they now carry but also their potential as change-makers and social transformers. “Sisters are a force to reckon with,” she declared. You are not just learners here; you are leaders ready to use your knowledge to create social impact and sustainable change in the communities you serve.”

She encouraged the graduates to cherish the knowledge, skills, and attitudes they had gained while at Strathmore University Business School and to apply these lessons in their daily service. “What better place could you have turned to for this knowledge than Strathmore Business School?” she asked. “You have been equipped with technical skills and the integral leadership qualities necessary for making a lasting difference in the world.”

 Sr. Bridgita also expressed gratitude to the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, whose generous funding made the SBVP possible. She thanked the SBS team for their dedication to the Sisters’ learning and development, as well as the industry leaders who shared their expertise throughout the program. “Your generosity and commitment have made this training a success,” she said, recognizing the collective effort that had made the program possible.

In closing, Sr. Bridgita urged the graduates to go forth and apply what they had learned for the greater good. “May the Lord Jesus, who multiplied a few loaves of bread to feed thousands, multiply the fruits of your labour to benefit the many you will encounter in your service,” she said. “May your jar of oil never run dry.”