From Hustler to Hired: Inspiring Job Search Stories from Kenyans

In a country where youth unemployment remains high, the journey to finding a job can feel like an uphill battle. But amid the struggle, many Kenyans have made the leap—from hustling in the streets to landing their dream careers.

At DreamJob.co.ke, we believe that your breakthrough is possible too. Here are real, inspiring stories of job seekers who faced rejection, uncertainty, and hardship, but never gave up—and eventually got hired.

👨‍💻 1. Brian – From Cyber Café Attendant to IT Officer

Then: Brian worked at a cyber café in Ongata Rongai, helping clients with printing and emails.
Now: He’s an IT Officer at a leading microfinance bank in Nairobi.

How He Did It:
Brian started taking free online courses on Coursera and Google Digital Skills. He built a basic website to showcase his skills and used LinkedIn to connect with HR managers. After six months of applying, he got a call for an interview—and nailed it.

💬 “It wasn’t easy, but every night I studied something new. That cyber café taught me discipline and customer care—skills I now use every day.”

👩‍🎓 2. Ruth – Rejected 15 Times, Now a Graduate Trainee at a Telco

Then: A Communications graduate from Maseno University, Ruth sent out over 50 applications and was rejected more than 15 times.
Now: She works as a Graduate Trainee at a leading telecommunications company.

How She Did It:
Ruth had been using the same CV for every job. After reading a blog post on DreamJob.co.ke, she revamped her CV, tailored her applications, and started networking on LinkedIn.

💬 “I almost gave up, but changing my CV and mindset turned things around. My advice—apply smarter, not harder.”

👨‍🔧 3. Kevin – From Mjengo to Mechanic at Toyota Kenya

Then: Kevin worked on construction sites (mjengo) in Kikuyu after high school.
Now: He’s a mechanic at Toyota Kenya, servicing top vehicles and learning new systems.

How He Did It:
Kevin enrolled in a youth empowerment program that offered vocational training. After earning his certification, he applied through an online job board (DreamJob was one of them) and got shortlisted.

💬 “From mjengo to machines—it’s been a journey. Never look down on any job, but also never stop chasing better.”

👩‍💼 4. Mercy – From Selling Mitumba to HR Assistant

Then: Mercy sold mitumba clothes in Gikomba after graduating in HR.
Now: She’s an HR Assistant at a growing tech startup in Westlands.

How She Did It:
She treated every customer like a learning opportunity. When an old classmate shared a job listing on WhatsApp, she applied using her updated CV from DreamJob’s free template and landed the job after two interviews.

💬 “Selling second-hand clothes taught me people skills. Now I’m applying those same skills in HR.”

🛠️ 5. Joseph – From Hustler to CEO (and Founder of DreamJob.co.ke)

Then: Like many Kenyans, Joseph did odd jobs—selling insurance, repairing electronics, and even washing cars.
Now: He’s the CEO of DreamJob.co.ke, helping others find opportunities he once searched for.

How He Did It:
Joseph invested in learning digital skills, started building websites, and launched platforms like DreamJob to create value for job seekers across Kenya.

💬 “Your hustle is not your identity—it’s a step in your journey. Use every chance to build, learn, and grow.”

💡 Your Story Could Be Next

These stories remind us that every job seeker has a unique path. Whether you’re unemployed, underemployed, or just tired of hustling, remember: with persistence, smart strategies, and the right support, you too can move from hustler to hired.

🔍 Looking for a Job? Start Here:

✅ Visit www.dreamjob.co.ke for:

Daily updated job listings across Kenya
Free CV templates & career tips
Entry-level, internship, and professional roles
Real support for real job seekers

📩 Got a Story to Share?

We’d love to feature your job search journey!
👉 Email us at stories@dreamjob.co.ke or message us on our socials with your story, photo, and lessons learned.