Unlocking the strength of your support circle

As humans, we crave connection and the opportunity to express ourselves, share our experiences and unburden ourselves. This need is especially strong for women, who are often caught up in the whirlwind of work, family, and societal expectations. Let's be honest: some things are difficult to talk about with our partners. That's when you turn to your girlfriends or family to share your wins, losses, and everything in between. In Kenya, where women face cultural norms, gender-based violence and economic challenges, this need for connection is a lifeline. Women's support circles are powerful spaces where women can come together to share, heal and grow. Whether a Nairobi coffee meetup or a rural farming collective, these groups offer emotional resilience, professional empowerment, and personal transformation. Through Nancy Ayugi's story, a Nairobi office worker, discover how sisterhood can provide strength and hope to Kenyan women as they navigate life's challenges.

Support circles create a safe haven for emotional resilience. In our society, stigma often silences conversations about GBV or mental health, leaving women feeling isolated. Nancy joined a women’s circle after experiencing isolation due to workplace bias. “Sharing my fears with other women made me feel seen,” she reflects. These circles echo ancient traditions of women gathering to share wisdom and foster a sense of belonging. Whether they are grappling with postpartum struggles or societal pressures, women can find a non-judgmental space in which to voice their challenges. From bustling Nairobi offices to rural villages, these circles connect women, replacing shame with solidarity. The emotional boost is undeniable, with women leaving feeling lighter, stronger and ready to take on the world.

As well as providing emotional support, circles can encourage professional and personal growth. For Nancy, the encouragement she received from her circle helped her to negotiate a pay rise and overcome her self-doubt. “They reminded me that my work matters,” she says. In Kenya and across Africa, where women often encounter obstacles to leadership, circles provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and accountability. Rural groups, such as those teaching beekeeping or farming, empower women economically by turning their skills into an income. On a personal level, circles facilitate self-discovery through activities such as sharing gratitude or setting goals. Whether in a book club in Mombasa or a skills workshop in Kisumu, these groups help women to build the confidence to lead at work, at home and in their communities, and to rewrite their stories.

The heart of a support circle lies in trust and inclusivity. Confidentiality ensures that women can share openly, whether they are discussing personal dreams or collective challenges. Kenya’s diversity means that circles must welcome everyone, including urban professionals like Nancy, rural farmers and women with disabilities. Simple rituals, such as starting with a meditation or storytelling session, help to create a sacred space. Nancy’s circle, for example, begins each meeting with a gratitude round to deepen bonds. In rural areas, groups might incorporate traditional practices, such as community dialogues, to ensure cultural relevance. By embracing diverse voices, circles amplify women’s experiences, fostering healing and collective action, from addressing local issues to supporting small businesses. This inclusivity transforms groups into hubs of change.

Starting a circle is simpler than it seems. Begin by inviting friends or colleagues to join you, and set a clear purpose for the group, such as navigating workplace stress or parenting challenges. Nancy started her circle with four colleagues over tea, focusing on career hurdles. Establish ground rules such as confidentiality and respect to foster trust. Community organisations and platforms such as Meetup connect women to local groups, while virtual options such as online forums offer flexibility. Rural women can join skill-based groups that blend empowerment with practical benefits, such as farming or crafting. Use WhatsApp or Zoom to increase accessibility, particularly in remote areas. You could also attend a meeting in person, as Nancy did, to experience the connection first-hand. One step can lead to a lifelong sisterhood.

• Self care: The path to being a better parent
• How to deal with sibling rivalry
• How to introduce children to budget literacy
• Modern fatherhood: Rise of the present dad

Women's support circles are a movement of strength and solidarity. In today's world, where women like Nancy find courage through connection, these groups combat isolation, empower individuals, and inspire change. Whether you are healing from trauma, pursuing career goals or seeking community, a circle can be your anchor. Start with a friend or join a local group. As Nancy learned, “Together, we’re unstoppable”.