The Elevate Jijali Program: CBF Program Manager's Address

Education can shape a young person’s future. Leadership development can shape the future they help create. In her remarks, Betty Muthoni Maina, Programs Manager at the Co-operative Bank Foundation, reflects on the inaugural partnership between CBF and Leading Young through Elevate Jijali. Through its Education Pillar, CBF has supported learners through secondary school and provides university support to 56 top-performing students. Elevate Jijali builds on this longstanding investment by creating intentional space for young people to develop as leaders. For Betty, the aspiration is clear: to nurture leaders who are compassionate, kind and willing to learn. She also highlights that leadership development begins with leading self. More than innate ability, young people need to be intentionally nurtured to grow holistically—not only for their own development, but for the enrichment of the people and communities around them. Preparing the next generation is about more than academic achievement - it is about developing people who can lead themselves well, grow with intention, and use their knowledge, character and influence to make a meaningful contribution wherever they lead.