This archive report was first published on 28 August 2020.
Emmanuel Hirkena's journey from a jobless graduate to a successful entrepreneur is a testament to the power of determination and hard work. In 2015, Hirkena graduated from Jomo Kenyatta University of Science and Technology with a Bachelor of Actuarial Science, but like many of his peers, he struggled to find a job.
Armed with his second-class honours (upper division) papers and a bubbling optimism, Hirkena ventured out to look for a job. However, it was not easy, and he soon realized that he needed to think outside the box to make a living.
With the help of a temporary job with the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA), Hirkena was able to buy a Toyota Probox, which he uses as a taxi. His initial dream was to buy a truck to help his people take livestock to the market, but he could not raise the money due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Despite the challenges, Hirkena has not given up on his dreams. He is currently a student member of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFOA) and has obtained three professional papers. He advises fellow graduates against staying idle waiting for white-collar jobs and instead encourages them to explore entrepreneurship opportunities.
As a taxi driver, Hirkena earns at least Sh1,000 per day, which is a significant improvement from his initial struggles. He also practices kitchen gardening, growing kales, onions, and tomatoes for subsistence and selling the surplus.
For Hirkena, the key to success is maintaining the right attitude, optimism, and working smart. He has become a source of inspiration in his community, and his story serves as a reminder that all is not lost, even in the face of joblessness.
