Co-working spaces are becoming a powerful catalyst for startups in Kenya, especially in cities like Mombasa, where the concept is still relatively new. These flexible, cost-effective environments are transforming the way entrepreneurs operate by offering not just physical space, but also a supportive ecosystem that nurtures innovation, collaboration, and business growth. A key player in this movement is the Westerwelle Foundation’s hub (WSHM), which has quickly established itself as a vital resource for entrepreneurs in Mombasa.
Among such entrepreneurs and businesses that are enjoying this resource, is She Social Ke, a social media consultancy business founded by Jamila Hassan. Her journey tells a powerful tale of the transformative power of co-working spaces, which provide not just desks and Wi-Fi but a budding ecosystem of innovation, mentorship, and collaboration.
Jamila Hassan is no stranger to the digital landscape within and without the country. Having spent over a decade in the digital marketing space, communications, and business development, she identified a major gap: many small businesses, especially those owned by women in Mombasa, struggled with digital visibility. This realization led to the launch of She Social Ke, a consultancy dedicated to empowering businesses with social media strategies, content creation, and influencer marketing.
“My journey in digital marketing started with my blog, Life in Mombasa, which showcased the city’s rich culture and lifestyle. Through this, I saw firsthand how businesses struggled with online visibility and lacked structured digital strategies. She Social Ke was born out of a need to bridge that gap,” says Jamila during an interview.
As she embarked on this mission, she faced common startup hurdles, just like any Kenyan startup: limited resources, isolation, and the challenge of structuring a business for scalability. It was WSHM that provided the perfect launchpad for her vision. There is no doubt that for many entrepreneurs, not just in Kenya but around the world, the decision to work from home, lease an office, or join a co-working space is crucial. For Jamila, the choice was clear. She chose WSHM.
“Working in a co-working space is a game-changer compared to working from home. The structured environment boosts focus and productivity, while the opportunity to interact with other entrepreneurs brings fresh ideas and potential collaborations,” she added. According to Jamila, co-working spaces like WSHM address key startup challenges such as: They provide cost-effective solutions, whereas traditional office spaces come with hefty rental fees and maintenance costs. Co-working spaces provide flexible membership options that make it easier for startups to manage operational expenses. This makes the running of a business easier. There is no better place to network and meet mentors than at a co-working space. At WSHM, Jamila has tapped into a valuable network of like-minded entrepreneurs and industry experts. The mentorship and business training she’s received have helped her refine her strategies and expand her reach.
What about access to infrastructure? This is something many can only dream of in a traditional office setup or home. Jamila says high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a professional working environment have enhanced her productivity and brand positioning. There is no doubt that entrepreneurship can be isolating, but being part of a co-working space creates a sense of belonging and motivation. “The presence of other driven entrepreneurs pushes me to stay accountable and continuously improve my business,” Jamila shares. Since joining WSHM through the DigiTalents program, Jamila has seen remarkable progress in her life as an entrepreneur and in her business as well. “The training I’ve received has been instrumental in refining my approach to social media consultancy. I’ve gained insights into financial management, business growth strategies, and customer relations—all critical for scaling my business,” she says.
She has also formed valuable collaborations with fellow entrepreneurs at the hub, leading to new projects and expanded business opportunities. “The visibility and credibility that come with being part of an entrepreneurial hub have helped me connect with potential clients and partners.” Jamila’s story and entrepreneurial journey are just a tip of the growing and boiling new front that Kenya’s startup ecosystem is rapidly growing, fueled by fintech, e-commerce, and the rise of digital nomads. In this dynamic landscape, co-working spaces are playing a pivotal role in fostering innovation and business growth. Spaces like WSHM are incubators for ideas, collaborations, and long-term business success. They provide the flexibility and resources that startups need to scale without the burden of heavy operational costs. “Co-working spaces like WSHM create an ecosystem where entrepreneurs can share resources, learn from each other, and accelerate business growth,” says Jamila. “For any entrepreneur looking to scale their business, a co-working space can be a great launchpad.”
Jamila’s goals for She Social Ke are ambitious. Over the next year, she aims to establish a dedicated office at WSHM and grow her client base significantly. She also hopes to see more structured mentorship programs and networking events with investors at co-working spaces like WSHM to further support startups. Her journey is a compelling case study on how the right environment can fuel entrepreneurial success. As Kenya’s startup ecosystem continues to thrive, co-working spaces will remain at the heart of innovation—offering more than just a place to work but a community that drives dreams into reality.
As Jamila puts it, “WSHM is more than just a workspace; it’s a thriving entrepreneurial community that fuels innovation, collaboration, and business growth.”
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