Call for applications for Head Start Africa – Kenya

The KUCCPS portal is now open, and applications for the Head Start Africa program are being accepted. Aspiring law students can apply below for financial assistance, mentorship & professional development opportunities.

Head Start Africa, part of the global Head Start initiative developed by DLA Piper, has been created for talented young people who meet social mobility criteria. The long-term, high impact program supports students from backgrounds who have traditionally experienced multiple barriers to pursuing tertiary education and professional employment. These barriers may include a lack of access to funds for future study, lack of mentors or networks; which can lead to
a lack of confidence and aspirations.

Head Start is a joint initiative between DLA Piper International and IKM Foundation (IKMF) –DLA Piper Africa, Kenya (IKM Advocates)’s CSR activity platform. IKMF espouses the Firm’s commitment to supporting the community and the environment within which it operates.

What the program offers

• MENTORING, OFFERING SUPPORT FROM A VARIETY OF PERSPECTIVES
• CAREER DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES – INTERNSHIPS, APPLICATION AND INTERVIEW SUPPORT, LEGAL EDUCATION
• BESPOKE PROGRAM, RESPONDING TO THE NEEDS OF INDIVIDUALS FOR A PERIOD OF UP TO FIVE YEARS
• ACCESS TO NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
• STUDY SUPPORT TO ENSURE STUDENTS ARE SET UP FOR SUCCESS
• PROMOTES GREATER DIVERSITY IN THE LEGAL PROFESSION

Participation in Head Start Africa will not automatically lead to a job at DLA Piper or DLA Piper Africa, Kenya (IKM Advocates), however Scholars will have the opportunity to apply independently for appropriate positions as they are advertised within the firm.

To be eligible for Head Start you must:

• Come from a low-income household; is orphaned or vulnerable; is living with disability
• Have an interest to pursue a legal career or law-related career such as finance or IT
• Scored in the 70th percentile in KCSE based on school and background (B+ and above, B minimum will be considered for those from traditionally marginalised communities)
• Maintained good grades based on school and background (Scored B+ and above, B minimum for those from traditionally marginalised communities, in Form 3 & 4)
• Attended a government public secondary school
• Completed the application form
• Have a leadership and moral fitness letter from the secondary school
• Have a letter from the local Chief
• Have a university admission letter if already admitted

For further information or enquiries please contact Sandra Abongo, Responsible Business Co-ordinator, headstartafrica@ikm.co.ke

Apply before June 16, 2023.