The Next Step Foundation is pleased to invite applications from young women and men with disabilities for fully sponsored training opportunities aimed at increasing access to dignified and fulfilling work, under the Unlocking Opportunities Program, a flagship program implemented by Humanity & Inclusion, Riziki Source, Inable, and Next Step Foundation (NSF) in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation
The program seeks to empower young women and men with disabilities through inclusive skilling, employability training, and certification pathways that enhance access to employment, entrepreneurship, and digital economy opportunities.
Available Opportunities
1. TVET Scholarship Opportunities
Applications are open for fully sponsored Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) opportunities in selected institutions.
Training areas may include: Fashion & Design, Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology, ICT & Digital Skills, Catering & Hospitality, Graphic Design, Tailoring & Dressmaking, Customer Service and Other market-aligned vocational courses
2. AWS & Digital Skills Training
Young people interested in digital and technology-driven careers are encouraged to apply for specialized digital skills training programs including: AWS Cloud Foundations, AI Literacy and Digital Marketing
3. Job Readiness Training
Applications are open for Job Readiness Training designed to equip participants with: Employability Skills, Communication & Workplace Readiness, CV Writing & Interview Preparation, Digital Literacy, Financial Literacy, and Professional Development Skills
4. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Individuals with existing practical skills but without formal certification are encouraged to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) opportunities.
This pathway supports skilled individuals to: Receive formal assessment, Obtain recognized certification, and Improve access to employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must:
Be a young woman or man with a disability
Be between 18–40 years
Be interested in skilling, employment, or entrepreneurship opportunities
Be committed to completing the training program
Women and girls with disabilities are highly encouraged to apply.
Program Support:
Selected participants may benefit from:
Full scholarship support
Inclusive learning environments
Career guidance and mentorship
Transition-to-work support
Linkages to employment and entrepreneurship opportunities
Reasonable accommodation support where applicable
How to Apply
Interested applicants are encouraged to reach out to our regional coordinators or to Next Step Foundation directly through the listed emails below:
Nairobi – [email protected]
Nakuru – [email protected]
Kisumu – [email protected]
Embu – [email protected]
Kilifi – [email protected]
Turkana – [email protected]
Next Step Foundation – [email protected]
Application Deadline:
There is no fixed application deadline. Applications are reviewed and evaluated on a rolling basis throughout the year.
If you do not hear from us within two weeks after the end of the relevant recruitment cycle, please consider your application unsuccessful. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for the next steps.