Empowering Future Kenyan Freelancers: A Journey Through the Learning Lions Workshop and Client Challenge
Bridging the Gap in Digital Opportunities
In Turkana, Kenya, where career opportunities are often scarce for young talents, Learning Lions is reshaping the future. This non-profit organisation is empowering young adults with digital skills, allowing them to carve out sustainable careers in fields such as coding and website design, reaching national and international clients without having to leave their hometowns.
Luca Carlomagno, a Marketing Expert and Digital & Storytelling Lead at Be That Girl, runs his own freelance business based in Milan, Italy. He volunteered to lead an intensive five-day workshop for the students at Learning Lions on how to run a successful freelance business, with a strong focus on digital marketing and social media strategies, followed by a challenge to help them land their first client.
The program aimed to equip participants with practical strategies for establishing freelance businesses and securing paid opportunities in local and global markets.
How did it go and what was the impact of the training?
“This workshop has been really useful to me since I didn't know much about getting a client and closing a deal. I have learnt a lot and benefitted from the training.” - Words from a student
A Structured Approach to Freelance Success
Participants joined the workshop with some common goals: to sharpen their skills, expand their networks, and boost their career prospects. Some aimed to build sustainable freelance businesses, mastering client acquisition, marketing, and pricing, while others focused on job search strategies and how to leverage networking and personal branding to stand out.
A key theme was visibility - from strengthening online presence to engaging audiences and staying competitive in the digital landscape. Networking played a vital role: how to connect with mentors, industry experts, and fellow freelancers. For some, freelancing wasn’t just about independence but also about empowerment, creating opportunities for themselves and others.
Out of 25 selected participants (30% women), 11 remained consistently engaged - 6 of whom were women, making up 55% of the active group.
The workshop blended pre-recorded lessons, interactive Q&A sessions, and practical exercises, ensuring that participants could grasp and apply essential freelancing concepts. Selection criteria required attendees to be proficient in a digital skill - such as front-end development, graphic design, or web development - fluent in English, and possess key leadership qualities such as curiosity, empathy, and adaptability.
Each day was structured to build upon the previous one, covering crucial aspects of freelancing.
Day 0: Introduction – A chance to learn about the workshop, ask any questions and share specific interests for the course.
Day 1: Offer Building – Participants identified their core competencies and structured their service offerings.
Day 2: Personal Branding & Storytelling – Attendees established the pillars of their personal brand and crafted engaging social media content.
Day 3: Social Media Marketing – A deep dive into effective online marketing and audience engagement.
Day 4: Lead Generation & Advertising – A hands-on session on client acquisition strategies and outreach campaigns.
Day 5: Customer Success & Relationship Management – Learning how to build long-term client relationships and maintain service excellence.
Day 6: Presentation of the Four Week Client Challenge – The workshop didn’t just end at the learning phase – it pushed participants to take action through the Four Week Client Challenge, designed to help students get new clients.
A Transformative Learning Experience
For many participants, the workshop was more than just a training program: it was, in their own words, a career-defining experience. Some participants who once struggled with marketing themselves or securing clients gained the confidence and strategies to navigate the freelancing world successfully. Here are some of the results from the satisfaction survey circulated to the students after the course:
Overwhelmingly Positive Feedback: 70% of participants rated the workshop 9-10 out of 10.
Highly Relevant and Actionable Content: 50% of participants rated content quality a perfect 10, while 40% rated it a 9. Topics like customer success, branding, and lead generation were considered particularly beneficial.
Exceptional Facilitation: 90% of participants rated Luca’s guidance a perfect 10, highlighting his engaging, interactive approach. His ability to create a collaborative and supportive learning environment was frequently mentioned as a key strength.
Strong Interest in Continued Learning: 100% of participants expressed interest in joining the follow-up Four Week Client Challenge, underscoring the workshop’s lasting impact.
The workshop received overwhelmingly positive feedback, earning an average satisfaction rating of 9.3/10, underscoring its effectiveness in equipping participants with practical freelancing knowledge.
“The challenge experience has unlocked my freelancing network potentials” - Words from a student
Attendees found the sessions informative, engaging, and interactive, particularly valuing the real-world insights and hands-on approach.
“I have had the opportunity to understand how to get clients to deal with them and also I have learnt on how to build my freelancing career to be successful.” - Words from a student
The content quality received a 9.4/10 rating, highlighting its strong relevance to participants' needs. Key topics such as client interactions, business management, and personal branding were particularly appreciated. A major highlight was Luca’s facilitation, which earned an impressive 9.9/10 rating. Participants praised his clear explanations, interactive teaching style, and ability to keep the audience engaged. Additional learning materials, including tutorial links and video references, were also found to be valuable for further exploration.
While the workshop was a success, some areas for improvement were noted. Participants suggested financial support for mobile data to download contents in advance and enhanced subtitles on video resources to improve accessibility.
With its strong ratings and positive feedback, the workshop proved to be a transformative experience, offering actionable insights, interactive discussions, and practical strategies to help freelancers grow. The impact was evident in participants’ reflections, as they shared how the workshop empowered them to take tangible steps toward their freelancing careers. Here’s what they had to say:
“I found the workshop highly relevant because it directly addressed key topics I encounter in the field of freelancing”
“I rated 10 because Luca (the facilitator) helped us understand the initial stages needed to build a successful freelance business and securing job opportunities.”
“The workshop provided me with all necessary skills that i need to start my online business from handling clients to managing my business.”
From Learning to Earning: The Four-Week Client Challenge
On average, the challenge started with 10 participants but ended with five active participants, and of these, 4 successfully secured their first client, marking a key milestone in their freelancing journey. The fifth is in the negotiation phase with a potential client.
“(The facilitator) made the session lively by ensuring active participation by each member”
“The content was relevant because it aligns well with my 2025 goals”
Following the workshop, participants took on a four-week challenge designed to put their skills into practice in real-world scenarios. This hands-on experience helped boost confidence and practical application, with 60% rating it a perfect 10 for its impact on their freelancing journey. Many participants gained valuable insights into client communication, job-hunting strategies, and pitching their services, with some successfully securing freelance work.
However, challenges remained. Some participants struggled with complex assignments and self-motivation, with one rating the challenge a 5 due to difficulties in tasks like prospecting and sales. Others suggested that extended training, structured guidance, and stronger peer support through mentorship or weekly check-ins could improve the experience. Refining these elements could further enhance learning outcomes and real-world success.
Student Experiences
The impact of this initiative is best captured through the voices of the participants themselves. Many discovered new skills, built confidence, and unlocked new opportunities in freelancing.
For example M. stepped into the challenge with uncertainty but emerged with newfound confidence. The thought of approaching potential clients felt daunting at first, but she pushed through, determined to sell her graphic design services.
By the end of the training, she had closed two sales - an achievement that filled her with excitement. More than just a lesson in sales, the experience taught her resilience, persistence, and the ability to handle rejection. Now, with a fearless mindset, she’s ready for any challenge, knowing that every opportunity is a step toward growth.
N. entered the challenge with curiosity but little experience in freelancing. The idea of finding clients for her web development services felt overwhelming at first, but she embraced the process, determined to succeed. She pitched her skills, engaged in conversations, and learned to navigate both acceptance and rejection.
By the end, she had secured three clients - an accomplishment that boosted her confidence. More than just a lesson in sales, the experience taught her persistence, adaptability, and the importance of preparation. Now, with a clearer strategy and a fearless mindset, she’s ready to take on more clients, knowing that every interaction is a step toward growth.
S. walked into the challenge with a willingness to learn but no clear roadmap for securing clients. He knew he had valuable graphic design skills, but was uncertain on how to sell them. Instead of waiting for opportunities, he took action - moving from shop to shop, introducing himself, and explaining how his work could help businesses attract more customers.
The process wasn’t easy. At first, rejection seemed discouraging, but he quickly realized that every conversation was a chance to improve. By the end of the challenge, he had spoken to ten different business owners and secured five confirmed clients, with others showing interest. More than just making sales, he learned the true power of self-marketing and persistence.
For him, this experience was a breakthrough. He now understands that success isn’t just about skill - it’s about confidence, consistency, and putting himself out there. No longer afraid of rejection, he’s ready to expand beyond his local area, reaching even more clients.
And most importantly, he’s committed to passing on what he has learned, helping others take their first steps toward financial independence.
With a growth mindset and a growing business, S. knows this is just the beginning of something bigger.
A. entered the Four-Week Client Challenge determined but unsure where to start. She had the skills, but selling them felt intimidating. The thought of walking into businesses, introducing herself, and facing rejection was overwhelming. Still, she pushed forward, determined to make it work.
Her first breakthrough came when she approached a supermarket owner near her home. She introduced herself as a graphic designer and explained that she could create logos, posters, flyers, and business cards. The owner, eager to improve his shop’s visibility, was interested. “He said, ‘I have this shop, and many people don’t know it. I need something that will help them recognize it,’” A. recalled. She suggested a poster or a logo to give the business a clear identity. The owner liked the idea and gave her the job. After completing the project, she submitted it, marking her first successful freelance experience.
Encouraged by this win, A. decided to keep going. She later visited a salon owner in her neighborhood, who had just opened a new business. The owner was interested in a promotional poster listing the services offered, such as plaiting and blow-drying. The project is still in progress. “I’m still working on that poster,” Ayen shared, knowing that even if it wasn’t confirmed yet, she was on the right track.
The journey wasn’t easy. Walking into businesses and pitching her services felt intimidating, and at times, she felt like people looked down on her. “At first, it was very difficult. You go there, explain yourself, and people look at you like you’re crazy, like you’re desperate for money,” she admitted. But instead of letting doubt take over, she pushed through and realized that selling was not about desperation - it was about showing people the value of her work.
By the end of the challenge, A. had secured one completed project and another potential client still in progress. More than just gaining work, the experience transformed her mindset. “Before, I thought everything was impossible. Now I know that if you put in the time, have interest, and truly believe in what you’re doing, anything is possible.”
This is just the beginning for her. She has no plans to stop now. “Of course, I will keep going! This is just the start, and I’m going to achieve even more.” More than personal success, she is now committed to helping others who, like her, are searching for their first opportunity. Her journey is proof that persistence, passion, and the courage to take the first step can open doors to endless possibilities.
Also C. dove into the challenge with determination, even though finding customers felt like searching for hidden treasures. He began by leveraging a familiar connection - one of his regular electronics suppliers.
He pitched the idea of a portfolio website, and now his proposal is in the final stages of negotiation. Not stopping there, Charles also pursued another opportunity at a local restaurant. After enjoying a meal, he struck up a conversation with the manager about the possibility of ordering online - a service they weren’t yet offering.
Recognizing a gap, he positioned himself as the solution provider, with plans to follow up in a few months. Throughout the challenge, C. learned that opportunities rarely fall into your lap; you must seek them out and demonstrate how you can solve problems.
His experience underscored a vital lesson: success comes from connecting with people, because ultimately, your success is tied to theirs. Although he hasn’t signed a contract yet, his proactive approach and ongoing discussions hint at a promising start to his freelance journey.
Words from the Facilitator - Mr. Luca Carlomagno
“When we designed the challenge, our vision was to offer Learning Lions students an innovative pathway to launch their freelance businesses. With a background steeped in marketing strategies, I set out to test whether the methods that have thrived in America and Europe could empower students in Kenya.
Our training was designed to communicate a powerful message: success can be universal. Whether you're doing business in New York, Zurich, Berlin, Milan, or Turkana, the fundamentals remain the same. It is a people-to-people business.
The outcome of the workshop and the 'get-your-first-client challenge' was nothing short of impressive: four out of the five consistently engaged students secured their first client, with the fifth now in negotiation with a prospect.
This kind of training is exactly what youths in many developing regions need: how to gain future skills and apply them in practice to earn sustainable livelihoods. I extend my gratitude to Learning Lions for their commitment to student empowerment, and to Be That Girl Foundation for believing in this pilot. The most rewarding aspect has been receiving sincere thanks from those embarking on their freelancing careers.
Offering my time and experience in digital marketing to support these young talents has been incredibly meaningful - but I know I’m not alone. There are so many marketers, storytellers, designers, and other skilled professionals who have valuable knowledge to share.
Philanthropy isn’t just about donating money - it’s also about contributing your time, expertise, and passion. If you have a skill that could help empower someone, consider offering it. The impact can be deeper and more lasting than you imagine.”
A Future Full of Digital Opportunity
For many of these young freelancers, the journey has only just begun. Armed with new skills, confidence, and networks, they are now part of a growing community of digital entrepreneurs shaping their own futures. The Learning Lions workshop and follow-up challenge have given participants the tools, knowledge, and real-world experience necessary to thrive in freelancing.
With many students already securing clients and implementing their strategies, the long-term impact of this initiative is evident. As Learning Lions continues to expand access to digital education for underserved communities, future programs will undoubtedly create even more success stories.
This initiative is a testament to the power of structured mentorship, hands-on training, and community support in developing the next generation of digital professionals.
Through the collaboration between Be That Girl Foundation and Learning Lions - and the leadership of facilitators like Luca Carlomagno - the vision of bridging the gap between in-demand job skills and disadvantaged youth can become a reality.