Passion Meets Opportunity: Janet Empowers Her Community
Written by: Lilian Nansubuga
Passionate about giving back to her community, 22-year-old Kemigisha Janet saw the SBS CBT opportunity as more than just a program—it was a chance to make a real difference in the lives of others while discovering her potential.
An old girl from Divine Mercy Secondary School and resident of Kiko Town Council, Janet now trains community members in entrepreneurship alongside fellow CBT Frank Mulinzi.
Janet learned about the opportunity through an alumni WhatsApp group, where the link was posted by the school director of Divine Mercy Secondary School. “When I saw that the link was posted by our director, I knew it was authentic, and I happily applied,” she said. Her inspiration came from a love of community work. “I love training communities because it’s a way to give back. That’s what inspired me.”
The training experience was both fun and motivating. Engaging with participants and watching them step out of their comfort zones energized Janet. Being a CBT helped me gain respect in the community. I loved being called ‘coach’ and seeing people take initiative,” she said.
To deliver effective sessions, Janet carefully revised the curriculum and compared her notes with participants’ training books. “Comparing my book with theirs helped me use live examples they could relate to, making the sessions much easier,” she explained. She also taught in Rutooro to ensure everyone fully understood the lessons.
Interactive activities and energizers played a key role in making the sessions enjoyable. “Some trainees would come stressed, but these activities lifted their mood and made the training fun. Calling each other ‘coach’ created a safe space where everyone felt equal and comfortable to participate,” Janet said.
Janet observed remarkable transformations among her trainees. “The participants were different from when we started. Many were lazy at first, expecting us to provide capital. But when they realized that capital is skills and resources, their mindsets completely changed,” she said.
One participant, Sarah Kompaire, exemplified this change. Initially idle, Sarah revitalized her coffee and matooke plantation, started selling produce, and reinvested her earnings into beans, bananas, and charcoal, all while caring better for her family.
Janet believes the training is already making a lasting impact. “Some participants who already had businesses have expanded, started market research, and improved their operations. This training has truly opened their eyes,” she said.
She predicts that in five years, all her trainees will have developed into confident, capable entrepreneurs.
The program has also transformed Janet personally. She started her own liquid soap business, saving university tuition while continuing to train others. “I realized that I am a good trainer. All the people I trained have started businesses. Capital isn’t just money—I was teaching it, but I was also learning,” she said.
Janet’s confidence has grown tremendously. “I didn’t think I could deliver training to people older than me, but I did. My class started with 55 participants and graduated with 60. I’m so proud of myself thanks to SBS,” she said.
She advises aspiring CBTs to commit fully to the program. “When your participants take a step forward, celebrate with them. Revise the content and get conversant with it. It’s not just about giving information—it’s about passion and making a real impact.”
Janet hopes her trainees continue applying their knowledge and developing their businesses. “I want to see them put everything into action, not just get certificates and move on. The real change comes from applying what they’ve learned.”
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