Founded by the visionary Khalil Suleiman Halilu, known as KSH, the KSH Foundation embodies his aspiration to leave a lasting legacy. His initials are not just a name but a symbol of his dedication to social change and community upliftment.
The narrative of KSH Foundation is compelling, rooted in the desire to empower youth and women; providing them with the tools and opportunities to initiate and/or expand their ventures. The foundation’s mission is to foster a world where innovation and collaboration are not just buzzwords but the bedrock of sustainable development.
Core Pillars of Innovation and Collaboration
The foundation operates on the dual pillars of technology and partnership. Technology is harnessed to drive the effectiveness of programs, while collaborations help amplify their reach and impact. The commitment to these pillars is reinforced by a team of dedicated individuals whose resilience ensures the foundation’s vision remains vibrant and protected from challenges.
Impactful Initiatives
EveryGirl: This initiative targets young women aged 15-21, offering digital literacy and skills training. An inspiring story is that of Aisha Gimba, who, despite early struggles, not only completed the program but also led its curriculum in the subsequent session, becoming a beacon for others.
Her Startup: A cooperative effort with Tomorrow Foundation and eha Impact Ventures, this program aids female entrepreneurs through tailored business training. Olapeju Nwanganga’s success in securing a substantial grant after refining her pitch during the program is a testament to its efficacy.
Dear Therapy: A program that pioneers early-stage emotional, social, and mental health support for children and parents alike. The program works to shift the perception of therapy, emphasizing its service as a mental check-up, not exclusively linked to the presence of a mental illness by providing free therapy sessions to give first-hand experience of therapy.
Notable Achievements
Securing significant funding from IEEE and USAID for the second iteration of EveryGirl.
Over 200 applications from an international pool for Her Startup, reflecting its global appeal.
Collaborating on a N30 million project aimed at supporting female-owned SMEs in Nigeria.
Navigating Challenges
Starting from scratch, the KSH Foundation had to earn trust and form partnerships. The initial skepticism was overcome by demonstrating the tangible benefits of their programs, particularly with EveryGirl’s first run. Continuous funding remains a hurdle, but the strategic shift towards becoming a key player in grant execution has opened new avenues, leading to projects like Fem-Money and the upcoming CyPHER.
Measuring Impact
Impact at KSH Foundation isn’t just about statistics; it’s about stories of transformation. Each community they partner with sees at least one local success story, from first-time flights for young participants to professionals gaining their initial clients through the foundation’s initiatives.
The foundation’s approach to enablement, like in EveryGirl, involves immersive experiences—excursions, mentorship, and cultural exchanges that broaden horizons and ignite ambition among the participants.
The KSH Foundation continues to evolve, driven by the core belief that significant societal change is achievable through innovation and unity. Khalil Suleiman Halilu’s vision propels this organization forward, making it a pivotal force in the social entrepreneurship landscape.
