Elevate Transitional Fund (ETF)

Transforming Lives Through Education and Work Transitions

The Elevate Transitional Fund (ETF) is an initiative of Career Guidance Institute that expands access to tertiary education and equips vulnerable youth with the skills and support they need for successful college-to-work transitions.

Learn How ETF Works

Contact: info@careerguidanceinstitute.org

About the ETF Program

At Career Guidance Institute, we believe career guidance is more than a service; it is a responsibility to people and communities. The Elevate Transitional Fund (ETF) is designed to break barriers, expand access to tertiary education, and empower vulnerable youth through career guidance, financial assistance, mentorship, college and job readiness pathways.

By preparing young people for successful education-to-work transitions, ETF not only transforms individual lives but also fosters inclusive growth and stronger communities across Kenya.

Why this matters

1 Youth unemployment in Kenya remains high and persistent.
2 Financial and indirect costs block many from joining tertiary education.
3 Employability gaps limit graduates' transition into decent jobs.

120+Students supported

80+Job placements / attachments

15Counties reached

ETF PILLARS

Pillar 1: Tertiary Education Support

This pillar addresses academic preparedness and financial barriers by supporting both readiness and the indirect costs that often determine whether students enroll or persist in tertiary education.

College Readiness

Career guidance, admissions & life skills

College Readiness Program: admissions support, psychosocial support, life skills.

Financial Assistance

Support for indirect costs & materials

Financial assistance for transition costs, placement fees, assessment fees, living essentials.

Pillar 2: College-to-Work Transition Support

This pillar equips young people with practical skills, workplace exposure, and mentorship to bridge the gap between education and employment.

Workplace Readiness

Skills training, mentorship & job clubs

Workplace Readiness Program: communication, teamwork, CV writing, mock interviews.

Internships

On-the-job learning & placements

Internships & attachments through employer partnerships to provide hands-on experience.

Impact Stories

Mary Achieng – From Uncertainty to Community Mentor

“While I passed my KCSE exams, I did not know how to get started in college,” recalls Mary Achieng from Siaya. “The Tertiary Education Support program paid the payments required during admission, and even helped with my first semester’s materials.” Today, Mary is pursuing a Diploma in Environmental Science and volunteers as a peer mentor for other girls in her village.

Kelvin Mwangi – Ready for the Next Level

I am Kevin Mwangi. When I finished high school, I wasn’t sure how to choose the right course or handle college life. The College Readiness Program changed everything. It taught me how to fill in college applications, apply for funding, budget for campus, and believe in myself. Today, I’m pursuing a Diploma in Electrical Engineering and plan to start a community solar project.

Salma Hassan – Empowered to Learn and Lead

I am Salma Hassan from Garissa County. I almost deferred my college admission because of financial challenges, but when the CGI team supported my admission fees and study materials, I felt truly seen and valued. Now, I’m thriving in my first year of Nursing School and dream of improving maternal health in my community.

Brian Otieno – Mentored for Success

I am Brian Otieno. I used to think jobs were only for the well-connected, but the Workplace Readiness Program proved me wrong. My mentor helped me refine my CV, prepare for interviews, and build confidence. Today, I’m working as an ICT assistant and plan to mentor other young men in my community.

Faith Ekeno – From Attachment to Employment

I am Faith Ekeno, a Business Management student. Through the School-to-Work program, I secured my first industrial attachment at a logistics firm. The mentorship boosted my confidence and helped me build a professional network that will benefit my career.

Peter – From Graduate to IT Intern

I am Peter, a Diploma graduate in Information Technology. After joining the CGI Job Search Club, I refined my CV, practiced interviews, and strengthened my communication skills. With mentorship support, I secured an internship that led to my full-time job as a junior systems analyst.

Why Partner With ETF

Shared Impact

Drive youth empowerment and national growth by supporting smooth transitions from school to college and work.

Talent Pipeline

Access motivated, job-ready youth—reducing recruitment and training costs.

CSR Alignment

Achieve your Corporate Social Responsibility goals through a high-impact initiative.

Collaboration

Co-create solutions that match education with industry needs.

120+Students supported

80+Job placements

15Counties reached

How to Partner

We welcome partnerships from organizations, institutions, and individuals committed to empowering youth. Choose how you'd like to engage:

Financial Support

Contribute funds to support scholarships, readiness programs & placements.

Internship & Attachment Opportunities

Offer placements for practical, on-the-job learning.

In-Kind Contributions

Provide materials, equipment or training resources.

Mentorship & Skills Development

Engage professionals as mentors, trainers or guest speakers.