Academy stories: Janet, Quinn Mildred and Lydia
Three graduates of konnekt's Digital Literacy Workshops, in their own words.
Janet: the green bananas that travelled 10 kilometres
“My name is Janet. I recently took a big step and started my own grocery stand, specialising in fresh produce from upcountry. While I knew I had high-quality produce for sale, I didn't really know how to reach more customers. That's when I joined the Digital Literacy Workshop classes, and everything changed. Before, I had never considered using social media to promote my business. Now, with the encouragement and support of the konnekt team, I created a TikTok account for my business and began sharing photos of my products.
What happened next was incredible! Not long after, I received a message from a customer from Waithaka, 10 kilometres away. She saw my TikTok and loved the look of my green bananas. The next thing I knew, she was at my shop, having travelled all this way just to buy my green bananas! That one sale was a huge moment for me. It showed me the potential of what I was doing and proved that social media really works.
Since then, social media has become a vital part of my business, helping me not only sell produce but also build connections and expand my reach every day. Thanks to the Digital Literacy Workshops and konnekt, I feel empowered, and I am excited to see what the future holds!”
Quinn Mildred Ouma: a salon reborn on TikTok
“konnekt's Digital Literacy Workshop was a true game-changer for my salon business. Before attending the workshop, my personal social media page was a mess, full of both personal posts and salon updates. It made it more difficult for potential clients to figure out what services I actually offered.
The workshop taught me the crucial importance of separating my personal and business accounts, so I created a dedicated TikTok handle for my salon. That one change made an astounding difference. Since launching my salon's TikTok, I've been overwhelmed! Former clients from my previous job started reaching out, reconnecting and booking appointments. My online presence not only rekindled these old relationships but also opened doors to new clients who've started to discover me online.
The insights I gained from the sessions have completely reshaped how I run my business today, and I am incredibly grateful for it.”
Lydia: a business revived after maternity leave
“My name is Lydia, and I'm thrilled to share my journey. When I attended that first Digital Literacy Workshop class, I didn't realise how much it would change my life. That first class opened my eyes to the many opportunities that awaited me. Recognising the need for a smartphone to make the most of these possibilities, I decided to invest in one, kicking open the door to the future.
With my new smartphone, I was able to revive my undergarment hawking business, which I had put on hold to care for my young child. I began sharing my products on WhatsApp and joined the konnekt WhatsApp group, connecting with other inspiring women from the Digital Literacy Workshop community. The support I've received from this network has been invaluable, and many of them have become loyal customers.
What's most powerful is that this group has become more than just a business community; it's a supportive family. We are there for each other, helping each other out, recommending great services, or just offering advice. Together, we lift each other up and cheer each other on.
The Digital Literacy Workshop group didn't just help me grow my business; it's helped me become part of a community of strong, determined women who are all working toward their goals together. Thanks, konnekt!”