Paddy & Scott’s is known for its focus on empowering people, the planet and coffee farming communities, so it comes as no surprise that the team is putting a unique twist on International Women’s Day this year.
To celebrate the women making a significant difference to girls in Kenya, the home of their Mount Kenya coffee blend, the company is launching a “month-long takeover” that will see Paddy & Scott’s temporarily rebranded as “Jessie & Ketty’s” for the month of March.
This change highlights two women at the very heart of the mission. Jessie, Head of Purpose at Paddy & Scott’s, has spent seven years dedicated to the company, while Ketty serves as the Health Programme Officer for Mount Kenya Trust.
Their partnership links the UK directly to communities in Kenya, united by a passion to create change, educate and empower young people to break down the stigma surrounding menstrual health. For many, access to safe sanitary products is not a given; girls often use unsafe materials, leading to illness and discomfort.
Jesse with Ketty Gitonga
The lack of sanitary products and health education leaves girls vulnerable. Some are even pressured into transactional relationships just to obtain basic supplies. In Meru, where 24% of girls aged 15 to 19 have experienced pregnancy, the impact is undeniable. Almost all pregnant girls leave school and most never return, trapping them in a disadvantageous cycle. By providing dignity packs, this project helps break that cycle, giving girls the resources and confidence to stay in school.
Ketty Gitonga, from Mount Kenya Trust, says: “This powerful partnership exemplifies how collaboration can drive meaningful change. This project has significantly transformed our community by delivering crucial resources. Through enhanced education, improved access to healthcare, and active community involvement, we are addressing the pressing issues surrounding teenage pregnancy and paving the way for a brighter future.”
As part of the ‘Empower women. Change lives. March forward.’ campaign, Paddy & Scott’s will connect international rugby talent with the cause. Kate Zachary, USA Rugby captain, and Sara Seye, Italian prop, will collaborate with the team to champion the initiative and share their own experiences of challenges and inspiration in their careers. The rebranding to “Jessie & Ketty’s” is a strong stand to recognise this work and exemplifies what is possible when you fuel ambition.
To support this “life-changing work”, the Mount Kenya blend has been rebranded as a “limited-edition coffee” for the month. For every bag sold, Paddy & Scott’s will fund one additional dignity pack for girls in need of these vital supplies. The work also focuses on driving awareness by educating both boys and girls to see that they have options which may not have been understood or available previously.
