Empower YOU – StartHub Africa

Empower YOU Businesses Receive Grants

The energy was high, the ideas were bold, and the ambition was unmistakable as 15 determined entrepreneurs took the stage at the Empower YOU Pitch Event in Lira city. Hosted under the Empower YOU program, this milestone event celebrated not just innovative pitches, but the growth, confidence, and community spirit of youth-led micro and small businesses in Uganda’s northern region.

Elevating Entrepreneurs in Lira and Gulu

Held on July 25, 2025, this pitch event provided a platform for participants from Lira and Gulu to present their businesses to a panel of judges after months of intensive training and mentorship. From eco-friendly fashion to innovative agro-processing and community-driven services, each pitch reflected the unique challenges these entrepreneurs aim to solve, and the impact they’re already making in their communities.

Conor Walsh, Country Director of Uganda and South Sudan at Caritas Switzerland, giving an opening remark.

Their journeys through the Empower YOU program have been defined by learning, adapting, and growing. With access to hands-on training, expert-led workshops, and personalised coaching, these entrepreneurs refined their business models, honed their pitches, and grew their confidence to speak boldly about their visions.

A Consortium Driving Youth Empowerment

The Empower YOU program is implemented by a dynamic consortium led by Caritas Switzerland (CACH) and includes StartHub Africa and Gulu Women’s Economic Development and Globalization (GWED-G). Together, the consortium aims to empower youth by:

Enhancing sustainable income generation and life skills

Promoting youth participation in policy, decision-making, and development processes at both national and local levels to foster greater social and economic inclusion

This multi-faceted approach ensures that young people are not only equipped to start businesses but are also empowered to lead within their communities and influence broader systems of change.

Recognizing Excellence: 11 Businesses Awarded Grants

Out of the 15 inspiring entrepreneurs who pitched, 11 were selected to receive grants to help them scale their businesses. These grants symbolise more than financial support; they’re a powerful endorsement of the potential and resilience of local ideas.

One of the recipients, Aber Carolyne, founder of Luo Chalk, produces high-quality chalk using locally sourced materials in Gulu. Reflecting on her journey through the program, she shared:

“This program has not only expanded our knowledge but has reshaped the way we run our business, driving real, measurable growth. We’ve seen significant changes in how we operate, make decisions, and position ourselves for sustainability and impact.”

Her experience highlights the transformative impact Empower YOU has on equipping entrepreneurs for real-world success, beyond just funding.

However, Empower YOU doesn’t stop at funding. Each participant, whether awarded a grant or not, will continue to receive follow-up mentorship and support. This approach ensures that every entrepreneur is equipped not only to sustain their ventures but to thrive and scale with resilience.

A Program That Goes Beyond Pitching

The strength of the Empower YOU program lies in its holistic support for youth-led businesses. It emphasises practical skills such as customer engagement, financial literacy, strategic thinking, and market access, preparing entrepreneurs for long-term success.

Each pitch day is a celebration of the work already accomplished, but it’s also a launchpad for what’s ahead. These entrepreneurs aren’t just building businesses, they’re creating jobs, stimulating local economies, and transforming lives.

Insights

A Journey of Growth and Community

Starting and growing a business comes with its fair share of challenges, but for Immaculate Akello, the journey has been one of resilience, learning, and transformation. As a skincare product formulator and the founder of Keri Naturals, Immaculate is dedicated to producing natural, chemical-free skin and hair products using shea butter. Her products cater to various skin types, from dry and oily to normal and combination skin.

Overcoming Business Challenges

Before joining the Empower YOU project, Immaculate struggled with record-keeping. Although she was making sales, she couldn’t accurately determine her profit margins. “I wasn’t keeping proper records, so all I knew was that I had enough money to pay rent, restock my products, and meet daily expenses,” she recalls.

During the program’s record-keeping sessions, she was introduced to Zoho Books, a tool that helped her track her sales and expenses. Through this, she discovered that some of her low-margin products, like plain shea butter, had a 60% profit margin per kilogram. This insight allowed her to prioritize high-margin products and focus on the most profitable aspects of her business.

Immaculate Akello, Founder of Keri Naturals

Finding a Support System

Beyond financial management, the most significant impact of the Empower YOU program for Immaculate was the sense of community it provided. “I started this business in Kampala, but when I moved to Lira, I felt isolated. I didn’t have many young entrepreneurs to interact with,” she shares. Through the Empower YOU project, she connected with like-minded entrepreneurs who became her support system.

Growing Through Digital Marketing

Another major transformation in her business came through social media marketing. Initially, Keri Naturals relied on walk-in customers and WhatsApp referrals. However, after a session with a social media expert, Immaculate set up business accounts on various platforms. One of her fellow program participants helped her design content for TikTok, and within just a month, she began seeing results.

“We now receive at least two orders daily from TikTok and get inquiries from five to ten potential customers each day. Our online presence is growing, and it’s incredible to see how digital marketing is opening new opportunities for us,” she says.

Winning and Scaling Up

Securing a top three spot in the Empower YOU competition was a defining moment for Immaculate. “It showed me that someone believes in my idea. There were times I doubted myself and thought about returning to legal practice, but this recognition has renewed my energy.”

Immaculate Akello receiving the Empower YOU Award

With the UGX 3 million prize money, she plans to invest in equipment to scale her production. “Right now, I only have a small hand mixer that can whip two kilograms of shea butter at a time. With the new mixer, I’ll be able to process eight to ten kilograms. I’m also getting a filling machine to improve our packaging process, making it more efficient and hygienic.”

Features

House Ojok and Agro-Processing

Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with challenges, lessons, and growth. For Ojok Moses Walter, founder of House Ojok Investments Limited, the Empower YOU project was a game-changer. Based in Gulu City, House Ojok Investments is an agro-processing company specializing in chili products. Since its inception, the company has developed three products in the chili value chain: chili powder, chili sweet and hot sauce, and chili garlic oil.

Overcoming Challenges with Empower YOU

“Before joining the Empower YOU program, we struggled with marketing and distribution. Despite having high-quality products, reaching the right market and increasing sales was a major challenge,” said Moses Walter. “The program provided us with the training and mentorship we needed to tackle these issues head-on, equipping our business with essential strategies to expand our reach and improve sales.”

A Turning Point in the Program

The real transformation came during the Acceleration phase of the program. One of the most impactful lessons came from a session on business survival. Learning that an average business takes about three years to break even was an eye-opener. This insight reassured Moses that House Ojok Investments was on the right trajectory, and with focused efforts, breaking even before their second anniversary was an achievable goal.

The program also introduced new perspectives on sales strategy. Moses learned that if he wanted to secure 100 sales, he needed to reach at least 1,000 potential customers—a 10% conversion rate. This realization pushed the team to aggressively expand their marketing efforts, and the results were almost immediate. Sales numbers began to rise as they refined their sales approach, shifting from merely highlighting the quality of their products to addressing the specific needs of their B2B clients. Instead of just telling shopkeepers how good the product was, they now emphasized how fast it could move off the shelves and the profit margins retailers could expect. Speaking the customer’s language made all the difference.

Winning the Empower YOU Grant

“Receiving the Empower YOU grant was a defining moment for House Ojok Investments. It wasn’t just my win—it was a victory for my entire team, our loyal customers, and the community that has supported us. The grant came at a crucial time, just as we were preparing to scale and needed the financial backing to seize new opportunities,” said Moses Walter.

A moment of triumph as Ojok Moses Walter proudly received his Empower YOU award

One of the most immediate needs the funding will address is packaging. A major opportunity arose through StartHub Africa—signing a distributorship contract with a company handling distribution in Kampala and Mid-Western Uganda. This required proper packaging of products, something the company had struggled to afford due to high costs. The grant will now make it possible to invest in quality packaging that meets market standards.

Additionally, the funding will help expand inventory to meet growing demand. Shortly after receiving the award, the company landed an order for ten cartons—over 50% of its current inventory. With increasing orders, ensuring a steady supply of products is essential to maintaining both local and national demand.

Looking Ahead

With the support of the Empower YOU program, House Ojok Investments is poised for remarkable growth. The lessons learned, the refined sales strategies, and the financial boost have set the business on a path toward sustainability and success.

Programs

Empower YOU Pitch Event

On October 25th, 2024, the Empower YOU Pitch Event brought together 16 outstanding entrepreneurs from Lira and Gulu, showcasing their thriving businesses and the transformative power of innovation, resilience, and strategic support. This wasn’t just a day of pitching—it was a celebration of growth, community impact, and the unwavering entrepreneurial spirit that drives change.

A Celebration of Resilience and Innovation

The entrepreneurs, already making a difference in their communities, joined the Empower YOU program to amplify their impact. Through tailored training, hands-on workshops, and mentorship, they refined their business models and gained the confidence to scale their ventures. Their pitches demonstrated not only their dedication but also the potential of their ideas to address real needs and drive meaningful progress.

Ten exceptional businesses were awarded grants to supercharge their growth and operations. But the support didn’t end there—every entrepreneur will continue to receive mentorship and additional grants, ensuring that each journey is nurtured and every business has the resources to succeed.

The Empower YOU program stands out for its holistic approach to entrepreneurship. Beyond funding, it focuses on equipping entrepreneurs with essential skills such as problem-solving, customer engagement, and financial planning. Participants embraced challenges, applied new strategies, and demonstrated remarkable resilience.

The grants they received represent a beginning, not an end. Armed with enhanced knowledge, networks, and a supportive community, these entrepreneurs are ready to amplify their impact—creating jobs, boosting local economies, and building sustainable businesses that uplift their communities.

The Empower YOU project goes beyond individual success—it’s a movement to empower micro and small businesses as engines of change. By providing the right tools, mentorship, and opportunities, we’re investing in stronger communities, thriving economies, and a brighter future for all.

October 25 marked an important milestone, but it’s just the start. As these entrepreneurs embark on the next chapter of their journeys, we are excited to see them embrace new challenges and transform their communities through innovation and resilience.

Features, Insights, Programs

Unveiling Success: Ochuka Richard’s Journey with Empower YOU

Delve into the compelling journey of Ochuka Richard, an innovative entrepreneur from Lira City whose resilience, creativity, and transformative spirit have propelled him to remarkable success. A committed participant in the Empower YOU Program https://starthubafrica.org/empoweryou led by StartHub Africa, Ochuka’s story exemplifies the profound influence of strategic mentorship and unwavering determination in the business arena

Ochuka’s enterprise focuses on the agricultural value chain and Agri-training, adding value to products, processing posho flour, and supporting smallholder farmers. By packing posho in 1kg bags and selling at a competitive rate of 1800 shillings, Ochuka’s company stands out in the market where prices range from 2000 to 3000 shillings. His unique business model empowers farmers through training, seed provision, and purchasing their maize grain, creating a sustainable supply chain.

The inspiration behind Ochuka’s venture arose from observing the high unemployment rates among youth in his community. Unable to secure a job himself, he ventured into agriculture, starting with sorghum farming. His initial success, generating 28 million shillings, enabled him to establish his company in 2018. His goal is to provide employment opportunities, particularly for those who cannot create their own jobs, thereby fostering community growth and economic development.

Ochuka discovered the Empower YOU https://starthubafrica.org/empoweryou Program during a training session for a farmers’ group, where he met members of StartHub Africa. Their insights into business management highlighted his need for personal growth and training, despite being a trainer himself. Since joining the program, he has gained invaluable knowledge that he now shares with his community and staff.

In the past six months, Ochuka has implemented critical business practices such as record keeping, previously neglected, which led to financial losses due to lack of oversight. The program emphasized tracking profits and losses, significantly improving his business operations. Additionally, he gained insights into effective branding, enhancing customer awareness and recognition of his business.

Looking ahead, Ochuka envisions his business achieving 80% of its goals within the next five years. With a fully functional factory and the daily implementation of acquired knowledge, he is confident in his company’s future success. Key lessons from the program include maximizing expenses, setting targets, and strategic goal setting.

Ochuka Richard attending one of the Empower YOU trainings

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Ochuka emphasizes patience, persistence, and starting with available resources. He believes in monitoring and nurturing a business until it grows, drawing from his own experiences of incremental success.

Ochuka expresses profound gratitude to StartHub Africa for the Empower YOU Program, recognizing its crucial role in equipping youth with essential skills. He credits the program for the flourishing of his business and acknowledges the significant impact it has on the lives of young entrepreneurs.

Through the Empower YOU Program, StartHub Africa continues to foster entrepreneurial growth, transforming businesses, and empowering communities toward sustainable success.

Features, Programs, Uncategorized

Empower YOU: Transforming Youth Entrepreneurship in Gulu and Lira

In the bustling towns of Gulu and Lira, a transformative initiative called https://starthubafrica.org/empoweryou (Empower YOU) is shaping the future of young entrepreneurs. At its core lies a commitment to equipping youths with the essential skills needed to thrive in the business world. Let’s delve into the story of Joshua Opakrwot, a determined youth whose journey embodies the impact of Empower You.

Joshua Opakrwot, a recent graduate from Good Samaritan High School in Nansana, Kampala, found himself at a crossroad during his vacation year. Faced with the need to become self-reliant, Joshua embarked on a quest to turn his aspirations into reality. Inspired by a desire to venture into entrepreneurship, Joshua sought guidance from a friend involved in shoe manufacturing.

Joshua making a presentation during one of the trainings

Through determination and a thirst for knowledge, Joshua immersed himself in the art of shoemaking under the mentorship of his friend. However, his entrepreneurial journey truly took flight when he discovered Empower YOU, a program tailored to empower young business minds like his own. Introduced to the program by his mentor, Joshua seized the opportunity to expand his skill set and enhance his business acumen.

What distinguishes Empower YOU is its focus on providing practical training in business management, a crucial aspect often overlooked in traditional education. Despite not having prior exposure to business subjects, Joshua recognized the significance of mastering financial management, savings, and record-keeping. These newfound skills not only fortified his current endeavors but also ignited a vision for the future.

Joshua and his colleague having a discussion about their experience with the Empower YOU with some of the StartHub members

With clarity and determination, Joshua envisions himself as a business owner with his own workshop and manufacturing space within the next five years. Empower You serves as the catalyst propelling him towards this goal, offering invaluable resources and mentorship along the way.

Joshua’s story is a testament to the transformative power of programs like Empower YOU. Beyond the tangible skills acquired, it instills confidence and ignites ambition in young entrepreneurs, empowering them to realize their dreams. His heartfelt recommendation echoes a sentiment shared by many: the true value lies not just in monetary gain but in the invaluable skills imparted by Empower YOU, offered completely free of charge.

Joshua Opakrwot showcasing samples of his products

As we celebrate initiatives like https://starthubafrica.org/empoweryou (Empower YOU), we extend our gratitude to StartHub Africa for spearheading such impactful endeavors in the Empower YOU project. Through their unwavering commitment, StartHub Africa is sculpting a brighter future for the youth of Gulu and Lira, one entrepreneur at a time, by enhancing sustainable income generation and life skills for youth micro and small business owners in these cities. Joshua’s journey is just one of many, a testament to the boundless potential unlocked when passion meets opportunity

Features, Programs

Empower YOU Acceleration Phase: Catalyzing Entrepreneurial Growth in Gulu and Lira

The Empower YOU project recently completed its bootcamp Acceleration phase in Gulu City and Lira City, designed to elevate businesses from various cohorts. This intensive program aimed to equip entrepreneurs with essential skills and strategies for sustainable growth. Over three days in each city, participants delved into critical topics.

On the first day, participants focused on understanding and implementing effective revenue growth strategies, including setting clear, achievable revenue targets. This session emphasized the necessity of having a well-defined roadmap for growth, involving analyzing market conditions, understanding customer needs, and assessing competitive landscapes. Participants were also introduced to the fundamentals of distribution, sales, and marketing, covering various channels and techniques for optimizing distribution. Mastering these elements is vital for expanding their market reach, improving customer satisfaction, and maintaining a competitive edge.

Day two delved deeper into the sales process. Entrepreneurs learned about the sales funnel, which helps in visualizing the customer journey from awareness to purchase, enabling their businesses to identify potential bottlenecks and opportunities. Handling objections effectively was another critical skill covered, teaching participants how to address customer concerns and close deals more efficiently. The session also focused on financial planning and forecasting, providing participants with tools to create detailed financial plans aligned with their business goals. Effective financial planning helps businesses avoid common pitfalls, make strategic investments, and ensure long-term viability.

On the final day, the emphasis was on operational efficiency and leadership. Participants explored strategies for working efficiently, focusing on leadership and team management. Effective leadership involves inspiring and guiding teams toward achieving common goals. The bootcamp concluded with a comprehensive session on managing finances, including techniques for tracking expenses, generating financial reports, and planning investments. Sound financial management ensures that businesses can maintain liquidity, invest wisely, and prepare for unforeseen challenges.

Product Samples for Participants from Lira City

With the bootcamp complete, we now transition to a one-month follow-up phase, during which participants will apply the knowledge gained, refine their strategies, and prepare for the upcoming pitch events. During these events, 15 businesses will be selected to pitch their ideas at events in Gulu and Lira, showcasing their progress and potential to a panel of experts. The top-performing businesses will present their achievements and future plans.

From these presentations, 10 businesses will be awarded grants, providing them with the financial boost needed to accelerate their growth further. This support is not only a financial incentive but also a validation of their hard work and innovation.

The Inspiring entrepreneurs of Lira City

The Acceleration Phase of the Empower YOU project has provided a robust foundation for participating businesses, equipping them with crucial skills and knowledge. As these enterprises move forward, the continued support and opportunities offered by Empower YOU will be instrumental in their journey toward sustainable growth and success. By focusing on key areas such as revenue growth, financial planning, and efficient operations, the bootcamp has empowered participants to transform their businesses and contribute to a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Features, Insights, Programs

Empower YOU: Igniting Entrepreneurial Success Through Skill Empowerment

Meet Laker Linda Irene, a teacher turned entrepreneur making waves in Gulu with her jewelry and welding business. Her journey epitomizes the transformative impact of Empower YOU, a program spearheaded by StartHub Africa, aimed at equipping young entrepreneurs with essential skills.

Linda’s venture into entrepreneurship was sparked by a call from her local community leader during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the opportunity to choose from various trades, she boldly opted for welding, a traditionally male-dominated field. Despite initial apprehensions, Linda persevered through challenges, demonstrating her determination and resilience.

Laker Linda at one of the Empower YOU trainings

Her commitment caught the attention of Volunteer Services Overseas (VSO), who recognized her talent and provided crucial support by supplying her with welding equipment. Linda’s prowess in welding soon led her to become a trainer, empowering others in her community with valuable skills.

However, setbacks such as theft threatened to derail Linda’s business aspirations. It was during this trying time that she discovered Empower YOU through a colleague. Recognizing the program’s potential to bolster her business, Linda eagerly embraced the opportunity to refine her financial management skills and enhance her business acumen.

Through Empower YOU, Linda gained insights into financial literacy and the importance of meticulous documentation. Armed with newfound knowledge, she’s now equipped to manage her finances effectively, ensuring the sustainability and growth of her business.

Participants during one of the Empower YOU trainings in Gulu

Beyond the technical aspects of jewelry making and welding, Empower YOU instilled in Linda a deeper understanding of business fundamentals. From expense tracking to savings strategies, the program provided her with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship.

Linda’s endorsement of Empower YOU serves as a testament to its efficacy in fostering entrepreneurial success. She urges fellow youths to seize the opportunity afforded by such programs, emphasizing the transformative potential they hold for aspiring and established entrepreneurs alike.

As Linda continues on her entrepreneurial journey, she extends her heartfelt gratitude to StartHub Africa for pioneering initiatives like Empower YOU. Through their unwavering support, they’re not only transforming individual lives but also driving economic empowerment and community development in Gulu and beyond.

StartHub Africa’s pivotal role in the Empower YOU project aligns with its objective to enhance sustainable income generation and life skills for youth micro and small business owners in Lira and Gulu cities. By providing practical training and mentorship, StartHub Africa empowers entrepreneurs like Linda to thrive in their endeavors, contributing to economic growth and social inclusion in their communities

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