Careen Moraa : Not afraid to roll up sleeves and get my hands dirty

Careen Moraa

While many are on the look out for white collar jobs, Careen Moraa is earning a living as a mechanic in Kisii town.

Although trained to repair vehicles, the 24-year-old works on motorcycles and day in day out, you will find her at her place of work - under a tree just next to the Coffee Farmers' Society gate.

"I decided not to wait until I found work in-line with what I studied since it was not forth coming. I am proud of what I do since it puts food on the table, pays my rent and ensures I do not rely on my parents for my sustenance," she says.

Despite her business being located in the open and subject to changing weather patterns, Careen keeps going in an otherwise male dominated industry.

She says she ventured into this trade following training she received courtesy of a local non-governmental organisation which was offering technical training for interested youth.

"I registered for a certificate in mechanics and studied Grade 2 and 3 but could not go to Grade 1 due to financial constraints," she says.

Determined to make it to that level, Careen sought an apprenticeship with one Mwebi alias Semo, who incorporated her as a trainee and later took her on as a full partner. With the money she is making, Careen enrolled for a driving course.

Reason being, many of the companies she previously approached for employment after finishing her training would ask her for a driving license.

She has however, now embraced self employment and says she enjoys the little or no supervision.

"Self-employment is the best thing and it is also fulfilling since my clients really appreciate my work. I now have a lot of clients and they are encouraging me to go on and open a spare parts shop where I can sell the tools and fix for them at the same time," she says.

Careen urges youths to be dynamic and selective of their career choices noting that a humble start can lead to a promising future.