Economics graduate drops dream white-collar job for car wash business, employs others

In a country where many young people struggle to find employment, one businessman in Nairobi is proving that determination and hard work can create opportunities not only for oneself but for others as well.

Victor Ochieng Owino, originally from Siaya County, moved to Nairobi after completing his studies in Economics and Statistics at Kenyatta University.

Like many graduates, he hoped to secure formal employment, but the job market proved challenging. Rather than giving up, Owino chose to take any opportunity that came his way.

"I came to Nairobi from Siaya, and I had to swallow my pride to grab any opportunity that came my way, provided that at the end of the day it met my needs. My first job was as a watchman," he says.

Through discipline and hard work, Owino saved money from his earnings and gradually began investing in his own ventures.

He later got a space to establish his business, an opportunity that helped him start his entrepreneurial journey.

Owino says he focused his time and strength on creating job opportunities.

Today, he runs a car wash business that employs three young people. He also founded a cleaning company, which currently employs three workers.

His vision, however, extends far beyond where he is today.

"My prayer is that the company continues to grow so that we can employ at least 20 people in the future," he says.

As his businesses expanded, Owino diversified his investments and ventured into additional enterprises, creating even more employment opportunities. Through his various ventures, he has so far employed five more people.

For Owino, entrepreneurship is not just about earning a living; it is about addressing youth unemployment by creating opportunities for others.

His journey from a watchman to a business owner highlights the power of perseverance and serves as an inspiration to many young Kenyans facing challenges in the job market.

As unemployment continues to affect thousands of young people across the country, Owino's story demonstrates that sometimes the path to success begins with embracing humble beginnings and turning small opportunities into lasting impact.