Benta’s Journey: Building a Career as a Professional Plumber

Initial vocational education and training
19.06.2025
After graduating, Benta was retained by Trident Plumbers Ltd as a full-time employee—one of the 80% of the 76 PropelA apprentices who were absorbed by their training companies. Her story is a testament to her skill, dedication, and the power of the dual apprenticeship model to create real employment pathways.

Before PropelA: A Girl with a Dream

Before PropelA, Benta hustled—running a small kiosk and taking on odd jobs to provide for her young children. Despite having attained a college-level education with a mean grade of C, financial challenges had stalled her progress—until PropelA opened a new pathway.

“When I heard about the PropelA Dual Apprenticeship Program through Dream Girls, I knew this was my moment. I saw PropelA as the door that could finally change my life.”

During PropelA: Building Skills and Confidence

Benta joined 75 other trailblazers in the first PropelA cohort, training at Don Bosco Boys Town. Each month, she spent one week in class and three weeks gaining on-the-job experience.

“The theory sessions took a scenario-based approach, making the learning experience highly engaging. In the afternoons, we moved to the plumbing workshop to apply our classroom knowledge, using tools from Hilti and Geberit.”

Benta was placed at Trident Plumbers Ltd, where she was mentored on-site by industry professionals.

“Every day started with a toolbox talk, and then I’d get hands-on tasks. It was immersive, challenging—and exactly what I needed to grow.”

Her Supervisor, Justus Oyamo, shared:

“Benta was eager to learn, respectful, and consistent. You could trust her to do a job well and to always show up ready.”

Life on-site wasn’t easy. As a woman in construction, Benta often faced doubt—but she stayed grounded.

“PropelA’s mentorship and life skills training helped me stand tall. A session with Lucy Muchemi, CEO of Mavens Plumbers, really inspired me to hold onto my values and keep moving forward.”

Benta Akinyi during a practical plumbing workshop session at Don Bosco Boys Town, collaborating with fellow students on a practical project.

After PropelA: Employed and Empowered

"Getting employed by Trident Plumbers changed everything. I’m earning a decent, stable income. I can comfortably provide for my children, pay my sister’s school fees, and live with dignity."
Benta Akinyi - PropelA  Alumni

Recognized for her leadership skills and OSHA knowledge, Benta was appointed to Trident’s Health and Safety Committee just six months after graduation.

Because of the OSHA training I received at PropelA, I now help ensure that my colleagues work in safe environments and have the right protective gear. I also assist in responding to incidents and finding safety solutions.”

Benta’s dreams don’t stop here. She aspires to rise through the ranks, eventually becoming a plumbing consultant and business owner—mentoring other young women to take charge of their futures.

Her message is clear:

“Technical skills give you power—financial independence, self-worth, and a future. Don’t wait. Start.”

Benta Akinyi at work on a construction site with Trident Plumbers Ltd. 
Benta and former PropelA apprentice Frankline, both now employed by Trident Plumbers Ltd, walk their supervisor, Justus Oyamo, through the progress of their work on site
2022 - 2025
Kenya
Initial vocational education and training
Building skills for young plumbers and electricians through dual apprenticeship training (PropelA)
The PropelA project seeks to introduce a dual apprenticeship model driven by employers for the construction industry in Kenya and beyond, starting with plumbers and electricians.