Barclay Okari: Transforming Lives with Safi Pads

Barclay Okari: Transforming Lives with Safi Pads. Barclay Okari is a young Kenyan social entrepreneur. He specifically founded Impact Africa Industries, a company making affordable, reusable sanitary pads. This particular product, Safi Pads, has transformed the lives of many women across East Africa.

Barclay Okari: Transforming Lives with Safi Pads

Significantly, Okari’s journey began in high school, full of ambition. Naturally, his first venture, SkypeScience, was a science-sharing site, but it didn’t take off. Nonetheless, a few years later, he tried e-commerce with Marketplace Ltd., connecting buyers and sellers. Unfortunately, this business also closed within a year, but Okari didn’t stop.

Moreover, In 2011, he borrowed $1,500 from his parents to launch Impact Africa Industries. Specifically, his goal was to create affordable sanitary pads, allowing girls to stay in school during their periods. Surprisingly, the first batch of Safi Pads sold out in a week. This success consistently sparked new opportunities.

Competing with Giants and Thriving

Presently, Safi Pads reach communities in Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan. Comparatively, Okari’s product competes with established brands by focusing on affordability. He additionally invested in research to make Safi Pads reliable and effective. “Proving our quality against big brands has been challenging,” he said to The Hub East Africa.

Growth, Community, and Empowerment

Subsequently, Okari’s company has grown to 34 employees, including 22 women. Furthermore, the enterprise earns over $300,000 annually and has a manufacturing plant in Kitale. He typically believes in empowering women by providing local job opportunities. “By empowering women, we empower entire communities,” he told Under35 CEO.

Lessons from a Young Entrepreneur- Barclay Okari: Transforming Lives with Safi Pads

In addition, Okari’s journey has taught him resilience and persistence. Significantly Inspired by his mentor, Fred Swaniker, Okari learned the importance of teamwork. His book, MarketPlace, shares his early experiences with failed ventures. It encourages young entrepreneurs to persevere.

Through his work, he is Transforming Lives while providing jobs, and inspiring change across Africa.