Kenya - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

We host DIY, woodworking and craft workshops, empowering individuals with essential creative/ craft skills for hobbies or to start their own creative business . We focus on sustainability by using reclaimed wood and repurposed everyday items.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

We are a dynamic Kenyan startup hosting bi-weekly DIY, woodworking and craft workshops aimed at empowering individuals with essential craft skills. Our workshops cater to hobbyists and those seeking employment or starting creative businesses, particularly benefiting underprivileged individuals without formal higher education. We offer diverse craft workshops, including woodwork, string art, rug making and bottle painting. We are aspiring to become Kenya's leading DIY hub for learning crafts for enjoyment or entrepreneurial purposes.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

We aim to address the lack of accessible opportunities for individuals, particularly underprivileged ones without formal higher education, to acquire essential craft skills like woodworking. This challenge is prominent in Kenya, where many aspiring hobbyists and potential entrepreneurs face barriers due to limited resources (material, time and space) and training. Through bi-weekly DIY workshops encompassing woodworking and other crafts, we provide hands-on training and empower participants to pursue creativity or start creative businesses. We emphasize sustainability by using repurposed waste items and reclaimed wood, reducing the need for new timber and promoting environmental conservation. Our workshops impart practical woodworking and craft skills and raise awareness about sustainable practices. Participants leave with a sense of accomplishment, a completed project, and the knowledge to implement and advocate for sustainability within their crafts and communities.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your startup provides (at least 3).

Skill Empowerment: Participants gain essential craft skills like woodworking, string art, rug making and bottle painting, empowering them to pursue creative expression and/or hobbies or entrepreneurial ventures. Accessibility and Inclusivity: Our workshops cater to a diverse audience, including hobbyists and underprivileged individuals without formal higher education, offering them access to training and resources they may not otherwise have. Sustainability: By using repurposed items and reclaimed wood, we promote environmental conservation and sustainable practices, reducing the carbon footprint associated with new timber production.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your startup’s product/service is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Creatives with a need for space: These are individuals who have a passion for crafting and DIY projects, seeking an environment where they can explore and expand their skills in woodworking, string art, painting, and other crafts. They benefit from our workshops as a space to foster creativity and realize artistic ideas. Underprivileged Communities: Specifically targeting individuals without formal higher education or access to traditional vocational training programs. We aim to provide them with practical skills and opportunities to pursue creative careers or entrepreneurial ventures in the creative industry. Environmental Advocates: People concerned about sustainability and environmental conservation. By using repurposed items and reclaimed wood in our workshops, we encourage sustainable practices and raise awareness about reducing the environmental impact of craftsmanship.

01.05 When was your company established?

2024-08-01

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

1

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

0

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

Samuel Kihara brings a wealth of expertise to SF Duka as co-founder and Head of Product. With a background in software engineering and business solutions spanning over 8 years, Samuel has a proven track record in transforming industries through data and technology. His experience includes pioneering ventures like Geek House Limited, focusing on innovative tech solutions for both B2C and B2B markets. At SF Duka, Samuel applies his technical acumen to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience. Beyond his professional roles, he is a passionate car enthusiast and skilled woodworker, contributing hands-on craftsmanship to the workshop's creative endeavors.

01.10 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link(s) here:

https://www.instagram.com/sfduka/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Crafts, DIY, Woodwork

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

We are contributing to the No Poverty goal by providing skills training and empowerment opportunities, particularly to underprivileged individuals without formal higher education. By equipping them with woodworking and craft skills, SF Duka enhances their employability and entrepreneurial potential, thereby addressing poverty at its roots. While our impact is significant in providing economic opportunities, poverty alleviation requires broader systemic changes beyond our direct activities.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

4

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

02.03.01 My startup contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

We significantly contribute to promoting good health and well-being by providing accessible and engaging craft workshops. Engaging in creative activities like woodworking and crafting has been widely recognized for its therapeutic benefits, reducing stress and improving mental health. By offering hands-on training sessions, we not only equip participants with valuable craft skills but also foster a supportive community environment where individuals can express creativity and enhance their overall well-being. This aligns closely with SDG 3's objective of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages, making a positive impact on the holistic health of our participants.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

We play a pivotal role in advancing the Quality Education goal by democratizing access to practical craft skills training. Our workshops are designed to be inclusive and equitable, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds to learn and develop their talents in woodworking and various crafts. By providing affordable and hands-on learning experiences, we empower participants with skills that are essential for personal growth and professional advancement. This commitment to lifelong learning opportunities not only enriches individual lives but also contributes to building a skilled workforce capable of driving economic and social progress in Kenya. Thus, we actively support SDG 4's aim to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

We are committed to fostering gender equality through its inclusive approach to craft education. By creating a welcoming environment where individuals of all genders can participate and thrive in woodworking and craft workshops, we actively promote equal opportunities for skill development and creative expression. Our initiatives aim to break down traditional gender stereotypes in craftsmanship and empower women and girls to pursue careers and entrepreneurial endeavors in traditionally male-dominated fields. Through these efforts, we contribute to SDG 5's objective of achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

5

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

Our commitment to sustainability indirectly supports SDG 6 by promoting responsible resource management practices. While our primary focus is on craft skills training and community development, we actively advocate for environmental conservation through the use of reclaimed materials and the reduction of new timber demand. By incorporating repurposed items and reclaimed wood into our workshops, we contribute to minimizing environmental impact and preserving natural resources. These efforts align with SDG 6's goal of ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

4

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

We are actively contributing to promoting decent work and economic growth by providing skills training that empowers individuals to pursue careers and entrepreneurial ventures in the crafts industry. Through our bi-weekly workshops, participants gain practical experience in woodworking and other crafts, equipping them with the skills needed to succeed in the creative economy. By fostering entrepreneurship and supporting local talent development, we play a crucial role in advancing SDG 8's goal of promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. Our efforts contribute to building a resilient workforce and fostering economic opportunities that benefit individuals and communities alike.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

5

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

We are contributing to promoting industry innovation and infrastructure through our emphasis on sustainable practices in crafting. By incorporating reclaimed materials and promoting eco-friendly techniques in our workshops, we encourage innovation in sustainable manufacturing and production. Additionally, our workshops serve as a platform for creative expression and skill development, fostering innovation within the local crafts industry. While our direct impact on infrastructure development is limited, our promotion of sustainable industrial practices aligns with SDG 9's objective of fostering inclusive and sustainable industrialization and promoting innovation.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

SF Duka actively contributes to reducing inequalities by providing accessible craft skills training to individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Our inclusive approach ensures that underprivileged individuals, including those without formal higher education, have equal opportunities to acquire valuable skills and pursue creative careers or entrepreneurial ventures. By empowering marginalized groups through education and skill development, SF Duka helps reduce disparities in economic opportunities and promotes social inclusion. This aligns closely with SDG 10's aim to reduce inequalities within and among countries, fostering a more equitable society.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

4

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

SF Duka actively promotes responsible consumption and production patterns through its emphasis on sustainability in crafting. By utilizing reclaimed materials and promoting the reuse of resources in our workshops, we advocate for a circular economy approach. This encourages participants to adopt eco-friendly practices and reduce waste generation, contributing to SDG 12's objective of ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns. Our initiatives empower individuals to make environmentally conscious choices and play a role in mitigating environmental impact, promoting long-term sustainability.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

We are deeply committed to climate action through its focus on sustainable practices and environmental conservation. By using reclaimed materials and promoting the reuse of resources, we significantly reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to mitigating climate change impacts. Our workshops raise awareness about the importance of sustainable living and empower participants to advocate for climate action within their communities. Our efforts directly align with SDG 13's goal of taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, promoting a more sustainable and resilient future.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

4

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

5

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

SF Duka actively contributes to promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems and forest management through its emphasis on using reclaimed wood and repurposed materials in crafting. By advocating for responsible resource use and reducing the demand for new timber, we support efforts to combat desertification, halt biodiversity loss, and promote ecosystem restoration. While our focus is primarily on woodworking and craft education, our commitment to sustainability aligns with SDG 15's goal of protecting, restoring, and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.

02.16.01 My startup contributes to the Peace Justice and Strong Institutions goal

4

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

4

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

SF Duka values partnerships and collaboration as essential components of our mission to promote sustainability and empower individuals through craft education. We actively seek partnerships with local communities, and businesses to enhance our impact and reach more participants. By fostering collaborative efforts, we amplify our advocacy for sustainable practices and expand access to skill development opportunities. While partnerships are integral to our approach, there is room for further strengthening collaborations to maximize our contribution to SDG 17's goal of revitalizing the global partnership for sustainable development.

06.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

3

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

6

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

2

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

4

06.06 The product/service responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

6

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

5

06.08 Justification for my startup

SF Duka distinguishes itself by integrating traditional craftsmanship with modern sustainability practices. Unlike conventional woodworking workshops, SF Duka utilizes reclaimed wood and repurposed materials, reducing environmental impact and fostering awareness of sustainable practices. This approach not only teaches practical skills but also prepares participants to advocate for environmental responsibility in their communities. By offering diverse craft workshops like string art and painting, SF Duka promotes creativity and skill diversity, empowering individuals from various backgrounds to pursue artistic expression and entrepreneurial opportunities. This inclusive model supports skill development, economic empowerment, and cultural preservation locally.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main potential competitors include technical colleges offering extensive woodworking courses. However, what sets us apart is our innovative approach to democratizing woodworking skills through accessible and practical bi-weekly DIY workshops. Unlike lengthy courses at technical colleges, our workshops are designed for hobbyists and aspiring entrepreneurs, providing hands-on training in a condensed format. We enhance sustainability by using reclaimed materials, promoting environmental stewardship alongside skill development. Our diverse craft offerings, including string art , rug making and painting workshops, cater to a wide audience, fostering creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. This unique blend of accessibility, sustainability, and creative empowerment distinguishes SF Duka as a pioneering force in the DIY and woodworking education sector in Kenya.

11.05 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?