Breaking Barriers: Mentorship for Women Leaders in Kenya’s Cooperatives

The FLEP-Coop Initiative: A Mentorship Program for Female Cooperators

What happens when established leaders mentor women cooperators determined to make a difference? In Kenya, it sparked the creation of the FLEP-Coop Initiative. This dynamic mentorship program empowers women to step into leadership roles within the cooperative sector. Spearheaded by DGRV Kenya in partnership with Kenya’s State Department of Cooperatives, the program pairs 12 aspiring female leaders with 4 seasoned mentors from various cooperative sectors and regions.  

Through mentoring sessions, one-on-one assignments, peer exchanges, and a digital learning platform, participants gain critical insights, build confidence, and expand their networks — laying the foundation for inclusive leadership and stronger cooperatives. The initiative supports both personal and professional growth by fostering knowledge sharing and strengthening leadership capacity. 

Breaking Barriers and Building Futures

Women in Kenya face many obstacles on their path to leadership – from cultural norms and societal expectations to self-doubt and limited access to professional networks. FLEP-Coop tackles these challenges by creating a space where women can learn, grow, and connect in an empowering environment.  

“With the training, I found my voice, a mentor who believes in me, and a network of women who inspire me every day. Now I know – leadership is not about titles, it is about stepping forward and making change happen.”, mentee Carolina emphasizes. 

By addressing these barriers, the initiative makes a meaningful contribution to Sustainable Development Goal 5.5, which aims to ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and public life.  

Strengthening the role of women in cooperative leadership not only promotes gender equality but also supports more democratic, inclusive, and resilient cooperative organizations. 

If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together

Through the mentoring process, participants gain more than just technical knowledge; they develop greater self-confidence, strengthen their leadership presence, and build the courage to challenge gender norms within their communities and institutions. The visibility and success of these mentees serve as inspiration for others, demonstrating that leadership is possible for women at all levels of the cooperative movement. 

The program also encourages mentors to reflect on their own journeys, reinforcing that women leaders are essential to shaping inclusive cooperatives. As mentees grow, they become role models and future mentors, ensuring the program’s lasting impact. 

In the long run, fostering more inclusive leadership is not just a matter of gender equity; it’s a catalyst for stronger, more innovative cooperatives that reflect the needs and voices of their diverse membership. Just as the African saying is refering to:

‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’ 

A Project Story of the Month by DGRV Kenya.