Add a global pandemic to the mix, and the odds become even tougher.

Yet for Dennis Mwangi, 2020 was not a year to retreat but a time to push forward.

In the middle of uncertainty, he founded Sir Outsourcing Customs which also gave birth to Sir outsourcing VIP customs, a company that deals with high end expensive car models.

Mwangi’s journey into vehicle customization was born out of passion rather than formal training.

Since his younger years, he had been fascinated by cars that looked different from the factory standard. Those fitted with body kits, flashy rims, or unique interiors.

That curiosity grew into a hobby, and eventually into his business. His first real project was upgrading his own Nissan Caravan.

What started as a personal experiment turned into a showcase of his potential. He shared the process online, and the transformation quickly drew attention from car enthusiasts who wanted similar work done.

His first paying job came soon when he transformed Mercedes Benz S-Class 2018 into a mercedes benz Maybach latest 2022 model.

Mwangi used his international contacts to find the part, delivered it, and carried out the installation successfully. That project not only earned him his first income but also gave him the confidence to build a brand around his skills.

Starting out was not glamorous.

Mwangi operated primarily online, creating posters and sharing photos of his work. Convincing clients to trust him with their expensive cars was an uphill battle. At first, he hired mechanics on contract from different garages.

From its headquarters in Kenya and the UAE, the company has expanded steadily. It now operates two dedicated garages in Ruiru and Karen, staffed with full-time mechanics trained in specialized automotive upgrades.

Today, Sir Outsourcing Customs handles a wide range of vehicle models, from Toyota Land Cruisers and Range Rovers to Bentleys, Lamborghinis, McLarens, Teslas, and Rolls Royce.

His company sources parts from United Arab Emirates, China, UK and Germany suppliers. Over the years, his network has expanded beyond Kenya, with clients in Nigeria, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Pakistan, the United Kingdom, Italy, and France.

Mwangi’s edge lies partly in his professional background. He is also the CEO of Ostaz Logistics Limited and holds a Bachelor of Commerce in procurement and supply chain.

With more than 15 years in logistics, shipping, and procurement, he has the expertise to source rare car parts and deliver them efficiently across borders.

This combination of logistics knowledge and automotive passion has positioned him uniquely in the market.

The services at Sir Outsourcing Customs cover nearly every aspect of personalization: body kits, performance upgrades, exhaust systems, interior redesigns, wraps and tints, and the sale of both new and used parts.

Depending on the client’s demands, the cost of a project ranges from Sh300,000 to Sh5 million. Each job is tailored, whether it is giving a Land Cruiser a facelift or turning a Lamborghini into a one-of-a-kind machine.

Mwangi admits the business is not without challenges. The industry is becoming increasingly competitive, and customer expectations keep rising.

“Car owners investing in upgrades want nothing short of perfection,” he says. “You have to dig deep into your finances to source the best quality parts. But that’s the only way to build trust and get referrals.”

So far, the formula has worked. With over 300 installations successfully completed and a reputation for reliability, Sir Outsourcing Customs has built a loyal base of repeat clients and referrals.

Also ongeza..sir outsourcing customs is based in UAE and KenyaFor Mwangi, customer satisfaction is more than just a slogan, it is the principle that drives his brand.

Such is the story of Solomon Ongere Omboto, who defied all odds to rise above challenges and transform his journey into one of resilience and purpose.

Growing up in Kisii, Solomon witnessed brilliance in his community, natural musicians, artists, athletes, and creators but also saw how this talent often went unnoticed due to a lack of resources, mentorship, and opportunity.

These early observations planted a seed in his heart: the desire to one day bridge that gap and become the kind of support system he never had.

His life changed forever when he won the U.S. Green Card lottery.

Fresh out of high school, Solomon relocated to the United States, driven by a burning desire to create a better future not just for himself, but ultimately for others like him.

A Soldier’s Calling

In 2011, Solomon joined the United States Army. It was a bold step, but one that he saw as a pathway to growth, stability, and service.

He began with boot camp, followed by Advanced Individual Training (AIT) where he trained as a mechanical engineer, and later enrolled in Airborne School, one of the military’s most elite programs.

His first posting was at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where he served as a paratrooper and mechanical engineer.

Over 11 years, he rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant, an achievement that reflected his leadership, discipline, and skill. He earned several accolades during this time, marking him as a dependable and outstanding service member.

But the military life also came with challenges.

During his 38th jump, a nighttime combat exercise in Fort Polk, Louisiana, disaster struck. His parachute malfunctioned, and while he managed to land safely, the impact caused a serious knee injury that required surgery in 2015.

Despite his recovery and return to service, he re-injured the same knee years later, leading to a second surgery in 2021. By June 2022, Solomon was medically retired from the Army at just 32 years old.

“It was heartbreaking,” he shares. “But I had faith in God. I knew it was not the end.”

Rising from Setback

While many would have been discouraged by such a turn of events, Solomon saw his retirement as a redirection rather than a dead-end.

He transitioned into civilian life as an aircraft mechanic at Gulfstream, where he continued to showcase his technical acumen.

Yet his heart remained tethered to his roots. He began to reflect more deeply on the African diaspora’s connection to their culture.

He noticed how Kenyan music, comedy, and entertainment were becoming increasingly popular in American households, especially within diaspora communities.

This realization sparked a transformative idea: What if African talent could be brought directly to the global stage?

The Birth of Myogenic Africa Talents

From that vision, Myogenic Africa Talents was born, a platform aimed at discovering, nurturing, and exposing African talent to the world.

Inspired by the biological term myogenic, which describes the heart’s self-starting ability, the organization became a metaphor for what Solomon believed talent could do: thrive and create opportunity without external dependency.

“Talent makes you independent. It can sustain you if nurtured,” he says. “Just like the heart doesn’t need external stimulation to work, your talent, once empowered, can take you places.”

The organization is built around three key pillars that work together to identify, nurture, and elevate African talent.

The first is the Myogenic Africa Talent Initiative, a grassroots scouting program that focuses on uncovering untapped talent in rural and underserved areas, particularly in Kenya.

This initiative seeks out musicians, dancers, welders, athletes, and other gifted individuals whose skills have long gone unnoticed due to lack of exposure.

By providing them with platforms and opportunities, Myogenic helps connect these individuals to wider audiences both locally and internationally.

The second pillar is the Myogenic Africa Talent Academy, which expands the definition of talent beyond the performing arts to include areas such as science, technology, engineering, mechanics, and the culinary arts.

The academy equips participants with mentorship, professional training, and access to networks that can help turn their skills into viable careers. It is a space where passion meets practical support, transforming raw talent into sustainable success.

Finally, the third pillar is the Myogenic Mentorship Program and Excellence Awards. This biannual event brings outstanding African talents to the United States for recognition, mentorship, and international exposure.

“I’m proud to share that the 2025 edition of our event was a huge success, attracting the attention of Alex Chamwada OGW MBS from Daring Abroad. Our collaboration was incredibly fruitful, and our three-state tour yielded significant progress and partnerships with prominent companies and individuals,”Solomon noted.

He says among the highlights was the presentation of a Certificate of Achievement by Ambassador David Kerich, which he described as a great honor for Myogenic.

”This experience has been truly remarkable, and I’m grateful for the opportunities that have arisen from it.”

Global Reach and Future Ambitions

Solomon’s reach is growing fast. A recipient of the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders in 2014, he has been recognized by the U.S. State Department for his visionary leadership and commitment to community transformation.

As a US Citizen, he is now able to travel between the U.S. and Africa, allowing him to expand Myogenic’s programs and partnerships.

Plans are already underway to launch new initiatives in Uganda and Rwanda, with a long-term goal of establishing a pan-African talent hub that connects African creatives with global markets.

Originally trained working in the hotel Industry, Collins has spent over a decade in the UAE, balancing his day job with a thriving business that supplies spare parts to Kenya and other African countries.

Collins has been dealing in used car parts for more than six years.

He launched Petro Auto Parts in 2020, and today it’s considered one of the fastest-rising auto spares shops in Kenya.

The shop mainly deals in Volkswagen and Audi spares, offering a wide selection of essentials like control arms, shock absorbers, taillights, radiators, and even full engines.

The shop is  located along Jogoo Road near Mogus Petrol Station in Nairobi with it’s loyal customer base drawn to its affordability, reliability, and excellent customer service.

“What has made my business grow is how I’ve successfully managed it. I have a well-informed team on the ground, reliable suppliers, and trusted shipping partners who have created a smooth supply chain for importing spares from Dubai to the country,” says Dennis, who now runs his business in Kenya.

He sources parts from well-known dismantlers in the UAE, making sure everything meets his quality standards before it reaches customers.

“We ship bulky parts like engines and transmissions by sea,” Collins explains. “For smaller or urgent orders sensors, side mirrors, or grilles we use air freight to reduce wait times.”

To streamline logistics, Collins collaborates with trusted companies such as Mombasa Cargo, Submarine Cargo, Diamond Cargo, and Sailing Cargo.

Each shipment undergoes quality checks, with local mechanics assisting in testing and preparing items for sale upon arrival in Kenya.

Despite economic hurdles such as rising taxes, fluctuating forex rates, and occasional political disruptions in Nairobi, Petro Auto Parts has managed steady growth.

A big part of that success is driven by Collins’ savvy use of digital platforms.

The business is active on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Telegram, offering real-time updates, product listings, and direct customer engagement.

Many of the shop’s sales come from referrals and repeat customers who appreciate both the product quality and responsive service.

Beyond business, Collins serves as an inspiration for young entrepreneurs, particularly in the diaspora.

When asked what advice he’d give to upcoming entrepreneurs, Collins keeps it simple but powerful.

When asked what’s helped him succeed, Collins doesn’t overcomplicate it.

“Social media isn’t just for watching videos or liking posts,” he says. “If you use it well, it can help you build something real. You just need to stay focused, stay consistent, and spend your time on things that actually matter.”

Looking ahead, Collins is working on sharing more of his journey.

He plans to create behind-the-scenes videos showing how he sources parts in Dubai, giving customers a closer look at the process and building even more trust in his brand.

Based in Japan since 2003, James runs T&I Japan, a trusted vehicle and machinery export business serving clients across East Africa and beyond.

James’ journey began with a scholarship that brought him to Japan to study international relations and business.

Fresh out of high school and a proud alumnus of Kijabe Boys, James never imagined that one day he would be trading thousands of cars to Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Mozambique, and South Africa.

“Living in Japan taught me patience, humility, and how to build genuine relationships,” he says. “These values are what shape how I do business.”

A Peek Into Japan’s Fast-Paced Car Auction World

Unlike many countries where buying a used car can be a lengthy process, Japan’s car auctions are a different breed.

Every day, thousands of vehicles are listed across various auction houses. Registered dealers, like James, gain access to real-time digital bidding systems where vehicles can be bought or sold in mere seconds.

“These auctions are not for the faint-hearted,” James explains. “The bidding is fast. You must know what you want, set your limits in advance, and act quickly.”

Each vehicle listed in the auction system comes with a comprehensive inspection report. These include details about the car’s accident history, condition, mileage, previous usage, and even whether it was submerged in water.

“The level of transparency is high,” says James. “You know exactly what you’re bidding on before placing your offer. This reduces the risk and helps you make informed decisions.”

The Buying and Selling Process

James participates in auctions both as a buyer and a seller. He explains that before listing a car for sale, he sets a reserve price – the minimum amount he is willing to accept.

“If the bid comes close enough to my price, say within $10,000, the system sells it automatically. If it’s above, I make more profit. Either way, the transaction is finalized the same day, and I’m paid immediately,” he says.

Once a vehicle is purchased, T&I Japan handles the entire post-sale process. The car is transported to an inspection yard, documents are prepared within five to seven working days, and shipping logistics are arranged.

For clients in Kenya, James ensures all cars comply with the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) requirements, including the eight-year age limit from the date of manufacture to the date of export.

“Kenya only allows cars that are within a specific age range. If a car is more than eight years old from the manufacturing date, it won’t pass inspection. That’s why we’re very strict,” James adds.

Helping Kenyans Abroad and at Home

In addition to vehicle sales, James and his team assist diaspora returnees with duty exemption processes. He notes that many Kenyans living abroad want to send vehicles back home but often fall prey to fraudsters.

“There are many fake dealers. We always tell people to deal with accredited exporters and check for a solid track record,” James advises. “Trust and relationships are everything. If I scam one client, I lose an entire network.”

James is passionate about honesty and has built his reputation around integrity. He refuses to work with people who demand shortcuts and emphasizes that success in this business is built on consistency and transparency.

Challenges Along the Way

Despite the structure and efficiency of Japan’s auction system, James admits the business is not without challenges.

He recalls incidents where vehicles arrived in Mombasa with stolen keys, or worse, with entire engines missing during shipment.

“In one case, a car shipped to the Caribbean had its engine removed mid-transit. I had to follow up with the insurance company to ensure the client was compensated,” he recounts.

Delays in customs, miscommunication with clearing agents, and shifting duty rates in Kenya also complicate the process.

However, with over two decades of experience and a reliable network, James has learned how to manage such pitfalls efficiently.

Why Japan Remains the Top Vehicle Source for Kenya

Japan remains the largest exporter of vehicles to Kenya. Popular brands like Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Suzuki, Isuzu, and Mitsubishi dominate the market. Beyond cars, GEMS also deals in heavy machinery from brands such as Komatsu, Hitachi, and Caterpillar.

“The vehicles from Japan are reliable, well-maintained, and cheaper when bought through auctions. That’s why Kenyans prefer them,” James says.

His business partner, Masao Tanaka, has even visited Kenya on fact-finding trips to understand the market better, reinforcing their commitment to building cross-border ties.

A Life Transformed by Daring Abroad

Reflecting on his journey, James credits his success to taking the bold step of daring abroad.

“Shows like Daring Abroad helped me appreciate both my heritage and the opportunities out here,” he says. “I’ve seen parts of Kenya I never knew existed. I’ve seen the world — all because I dared to leave home.”

Even for those students who obtained a C+ in KCSE or lower, there is an incredible chance to pursue a successful career through diplomas and certificate programs offered in the health sector.

These opportunities are not only dependable but also provide a decent income and the ability to create a positive change in society.

ere’s a look at some of the best-paying and most in-demand healthcare courses available to students with a KCSE grade below C+

1. Diploma in Medical Engineering

What You Learn: Repair and maintenance of hospital machines and equipment.

Where You Can Work: Public and private hospitals, medical equipment companies, NGOs.

Salary Range: KSh 45,000 – KSh 120,000/month.

Why It Pays Well: Reliable machines are essential in healthcare—your technical expertise is critical.

2. Health Records & Information Technology Diploma

What You Learn: Hospital data, digital systems, and patient file management.

Clinics, hospitals, insurance companies, and research facilities are among the places where you can work.

Pay Range: KSh 40,000 to KSh 100,000 per month.

Why It Pays Well: The foundation of high-quality medical care is accurate health records.

3. Dental Technology Diploma

Making crowns, dentures, and other dental appliances is what you learn.

You can work in private clinics, dental labs, or start your own dental practice.

Pay Range: KSh 50,000 to KSh 130,000 per month.

Why It Pays Well: Both urban and rural areas are seeing an increase in demand for dental services.

4. Diploma in Optical Technology

What You Learn: Helping with eye testing, lens fitting, and product preparation.

Where You Can Work: Optical retailing outlets, eye clinics, vision care non-governmental organizations, hospitals.

Salary Range: KSh 45,000 – KSh 110,000/month.

Why It Pays Well: Eye care is becoming of prime significance in the private and public sector.

5. Diploma in Orthopedic & Trauma Medicine

What You Learn: Fundamentals of trauma care, fracture management, and joint disorders.

Where You Can Work: Emergency departments, orthopedic wards, rehabilitation facilities.

Salary Range: KSh 55,000 – KSh 150,000/month.

Why It Pays Well: Life-saving, highly specialized care is always needed.

6. Diploma in Perioperative Theatre Technology

What You Learn: Assisting surgeries, sterilization, and patient preparation.

Where You Can Work: Surgery facilities, hospitals, mobile medical facilities.

Salary Range: KSh 50,000 – KSh 120,000/month. ###.

Why It Pays Well: Trained theatre technologists are a crucial member of every working theatre team.

7. Diploma in Nutrition & Dietetics

What You Learn: Nutrition counseling, lifestyle disease prevention, and food health education.

Where You Can Work: Hospitals, wellness centers, NGOs, or begin your own consultancy.

Salary Range: KSh 35,000 – KSh 100,000/month.

Why It Pays Well: Growing interest in healthy lifestyles is fueling the need for nutritionists.

8. Diploma in Counseling & Psychology

What You Learn: Trauma recovery, mental health therapy, counseling skills.

Where You Can Work: Schools, hospitals, mental health centers, private practice.

Salary Range: KSh 40,000 – KSh 100,000/month.

Why It Pays Well: Mental health awareness is growing, and counseled counselors are needed more than ever.

9. Diploma in Health Service Support

What You Learn: Infection control, hospital administration, patient care.

Where You Can Work: Dispensaries, health centers, private clinics, rehab units.

Salary Range: KSh 35,000 – KSh 80,000/month.

Why It Pays Well: Hospitals rely on support staff in order to run efficiently and smoothly.

Certificate Courses for Quick Entry

In case your grade is below the required diploma level, certificate courses present a faster route into healthcare careers.

Popular options include:

Community Health

Nutrition & Dietetics

Health Service Support

Where You Can Work: Outreach programs, dispensaries, schools, community health projects.

Salary Range: KSh 25,000 – KSh 60,000/month.

Short Courses & Bridging Programs

The students can also pursue bridging programs to make themselves eligible for upper-level courses or take up short courses of training like:

HIV Testing & Counseling

First Aid & Emergency Response

Basic Life Support (BLS)

Conclusion

A KCSE grade of C+ or below should not limit your career dreams. Kenya’s healthcare industry is full of opportunities for those willing to train, specialize, and serve. These diploma and certificate programs provide a clear path to stable, high-paying jobs that make a real difference in people’s lives.

Born and raised in Kenya, Olango was drawn to architecture from a young age, inspired in part by his father, a surveyor and engineer who worked closely with Japanese technical experts under the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Those early encounters with Japanese professionals left a lasting impression on Olango, particularly their discipline, dedication, and technological excellence. It was this inspiration that planted the seeds for a dream that would eventually take him across the globe.

In the late 1990s, Olango secured the prestigious Mombusho Scholarship offered by the Japanese government.

He relocated to Japan at the age of 19, after completing KCPE at Starehe boys center, ready to begin his studies in architecture. The transition, however, was anything but easy.

“I thought I could get by speaking English,” he recalls. “But to survive in Japan, you need to speak Japanese.”

He spent his first year immersed in intensive language training, followed by architecture studies at one of Japan’s top universities.

The experience not only refined his academic prowess but also immersed him deeply into Japanese culture through homestays, seasonal events, and traditional practices.

Upon completing his studies, Olango remained in Japan and began working in leading architectural and construction management firms.

Over time, he identified a unique niche—combining the engineering rigor of Japanese architecture with his own Kenyan background.

This blend of perspectives led to the creation of OSA—Olango and Sakata Associates, a partnership with Japanese architect Sakata Izumi.

Based in Tokyo and Nairobi, OSA has been instrumental in bridging Japanese technology with African development needs.

Rather than importing finished products, Olango and his team believe in transferring core technologies, which they call ‘seeds,’ to Kenya, where they can be developed locally.

This approach supports industrialization, skills transfer, and reduced carbon footprints.

“If you take a product like a toilet or television and ship it directly to Kenya, you increase costs, miss out on knowledge transfer, and contribute to environmental damage,” says Olango.

“But if we take the seed, the core idea, and build it in Kenya, we create jobs, empower people, and support sustainability.”

One of OSA’s most promising projects is their innovative use of black cotton soil, a type of clay commonly found in Kenya and considered problematic for construction.

Traditionally, this soil is discarded during building due to its instability.

However, Olango saw an opportunity in what others saw as waste. Teaming up with Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), OSA is developing construction blocks using black cotton soil mixed with maram, lime, and cement.

These blocks have the potential to be used in walling, pavements, and even in foundational work. They are being tested for durability and safety, and a pilot project is scheduled for next year.

Not only does this reduce construction waste, but it also offers an affordable, locally-sourced alternative for Kenya’s growing housing and infrastructure needs.

“We want to open this method to the world,” said Sakata. “We’re not doing this just for business but for social and academic value too.”

For Olango, this innovation is more than just professional success—it’s a personal mission to uplift his home country.

Despite building a life in Japan, complete with a Japanese wife and three children, Olango remains deeply connected to Kenya.

He regularly mentors young Kenyan students, encouraging them to apply for international scholarships and use their global exposure to bring back solutions to African problems.

His life story is a shining example of the power of global education, cross-cultural exchange, and innovation driven by purpose.

“Japan taught me discipline and precision,” he reflects. “But Kenya gave me my passion and my identity. I’m a product of both.”

As the world grapples with challenges in urbanization, sustainability, and affordable housing, visionaries like Dr. Dick Olango are showing what is possible when diverse worlds meet

Since relocating to Tokyo over a decade ago, the Kenyan-born entrepreneur has sold more than 6,000 vehicles, supplying cars and machinery to buyers across Africa, especially in Tanzania and Kenya.

“Japan has taught me diligence,” Daniel says. “The small efforts you make every day eventually pay off.” It’s a principle that has guided him through 14 years of running Pesol Corporation, a Tokyo-based vehicle export business he co-founded with his Japanese wife.

Daniel’s path to entrepreneurship began in employment.

For over eight years, he worked for a Japanese car export company, managing markets in Kenya, Tanzania, and the Caribbean.

That experience gave him the industry knowledge and client base needed to strike out on his own.

The opportunity came when his wife received a posting in Japan in 2011, enabling them to set up Pesol Corporation and pioneer Japanese auto exports into East Africa.

Today, Pesol Corporation deals in both new and used cars, as well as heavy construction machinery like excavators and bulldozers.

“Our biggest market is Tanzania, followed by Kenya,” Daniel explains. “We’ve built strong relationships with both government agencies and private dealers.”

Much of Daniel’s business comes through referrals, a testament to the reputation he has built over the years.

“I mostly work with dealers like those you see on Kiambu Road but I also serve individuals, often through recommendations,” he says.

Trust and quality are the foundation of his operation.

Unlike other exporters, Pesol doesn’t hold large inventory. Instead, the company purchases vehicles directly from auctions in Japan based on a client’s specific needs and budget.

The process, from sourcing to shipping, typically takes about six weeks. This model allows Daniel to offer competitive prices while maintaining quality assurance.

To further protect clients, especially first-time buyers, Daniel educates them on how to verify legitimate Japanese exporters.

“Ask for the Hojin Bango—that’s the company registration number in Japan,” he advises. “Also, make sure the exporter’s website ends with ‘.jp’ or ‘.co.jp’. These small checks can help avoid scams.”

Prices vary depending on make, model, and destination. For instance, a Toyota Harrier might cost around Ksh 3.2 million in Kenya, not including taxes and import duties.

“Start by knowing your total budget,” Daniel recommends. “Then we can work backwards to find a suitable car, calculate freight, and advise on duties.”

While Pesol Corporation continues to grow, Daniel remains grounded in his original mission. The company name is an acronym—People Enhancing Smiles of Others with Love, and the business is still very much a family affair.

His wife serves as the Chief Operating Officer and co-founder, and their partnership has been key to building trust with Japanese and African stakeholders alike.

Daniel’s journey from packaging designer to auto export mogul is one of perseverance, adaptability, and bold decisions.

Now, he hopes more Kenyans will consider tapping into underexplored markets like construction machinery and rare vehicle imports.

“We have to be willing to explore new paths,” he says. “There’s a lot of opportunity out here. You just need to be ready when it comes.”

He credits his success to the Almighty God and hopes many people will be inspired to follow God’s ways of doing honest business.

At just 25, after volunteering at a hospital in Thika Town, Oketch developed a bold idea; to start a medical school.

Though he began under the wings of established facilities like Central Memorial Hospital and later as the founding principal of Thika School of Medical and Health Sciences, it was his eventual step into full ownership that defined his legacy.

In 2016, Oketch founded Tricent School of Medical Science and Technology, a privately owned institution offering diploma and certificate courses in various health disciplines.

Despite skepticism from peers and walking away from a lucrative monthly salary of Sh250,000, Oketch believed in the demand for quality mid-level medical training.

“I was told I was mad to leave a fat salary,” he recalls, “but I had a vision, and I knew the gap in the market.”

Today, the institution operates from five main campuses located in Nairobi West, Juja, Kisumu, Homa Bay, and Thika.

It offers accredited programs through various recognized bodies, including TVET, CDACC, KNEC, KN&DI, NASCOP, ABMA (UK), and ACCA/KASNEB/ABE, ensuring that students receive high-quality education that meets global standards.

Some of the diverse programms at the instititution  include Diplomas in Optical Technology, Orthopedic & Trauma Medicine, Nutrition & Dietetics, Health Records & IT, Community Health, Medical Engineering, Business Management, and Counseling Psychology.

Oketch’s  model focuses on practical training, strong hospital partnerships, and rapid admission of students, especially those who miss placement in public institutions like KMTC.

Beyond growth, Oketch envisions TRicent having campuses in all 47 counties in the coming years.

“My dream is to see Tricent spread its wings across all 47 counties not just as a school, but as a beacon of opportunity for every young Kenyan passionate about healthcare,” says Oketch.

Recently, in a bid to attract more students, Tricent founder Denis Oketch announced a cash prize giveaway of up to Ksh 20,000 through the college’s “Tell A Friend” referral program.

This exciting new initiative, he says, will allow students to earn cash rewards in denominations of Ksh 5,000, Ksh 10,000, and even Ksh 20,000 by referring friends to enroll at the college.

“At Tricent, we believe in not only providing quality education but also empowering our students financially. This program is designed to help them support their education while encouraging them to bring their peers into the Tricent community,” said Oketch.

A mother of three and wife to a former politically active husband, she envisioned a fresh start in the land of opportunity. But nothing could have prepared her for the emotional upheaval, marital betrayal, and fierce battles she would endure before emerging as one of the most inspiring Kenyan immigrant voices in America.

Naomi’s journey is not simply about moving countries, it is about moving from heartbreak to healing, and from struggle to self-reinvention.

Today, she is no longer just a former Uber driver trying to make ends meet, she is on the brink of becoming the first African woman to own a commercial boat business on the iconic Hudson River in New York City.

A Rocky Start in the ‘Land of Opportunity’

Naomi arrived in the U.S. in 2012 along with her three children.

Despite holding a master’s degree, she found herself starting from scratch where she took a job at a retail store. While this seemed like a step back professionally, Naomi didn’t let it deter her. She was focused on one goal: providing for her family.

While juggling work, motherhood, and immigration struggles, Naomi also had to confront a deteriorating relationship with her husband. What was once a partnership slowly turned into a battlefield.

The man Naomi had left Kenya with and built a life alongside in America began exhibiting troubling behavior before eventually moving in with another woman just outside the serenity of their compound.

“They used to eat pizza meant for my kids on the stairs outside our home,” she recalls. “They wanted to provoke me, make me react violently, so they could use it against me in court.”

But Naomi, already aware of how strict the American justice system can be, chose restraint over rage. “In Kenya, you can break a TV out of anger. In the U.S., even breaking a cup can land you in jail.”

One Compound, Two Worlds of Pain

For the sake of her children, Naomi and her husband continued to share a roof despite the emotional wounds that were too deep to ignore.

She cleaned, cooked, drove Uber, and even took care of responsibilities that extended beyond her own home. Her faith and focus on her kids became the anchors that held her life together.

“I kept praying, I knelt through entire masses. I asked God to give me strength,” Naomi shared. “I didn’t come to America to be defeated. I came here to change my life.”

And slowly, she began doing just that.

Turning the Wheel—Literally and Figuratively

Driving Uber in New York introduced Naomi to a new way of thinking. She encountered business owners, investors, and people who had created wealth out of ideas. As she dropped off passengers on Wall Street and picked up late-night riders from business functions, she started visualizing her own journey into entrepreneurship.

“There’s cash in this city,” she said. “But you have to be alert, smart, and bold enough to claim your share.”

Determined not to be stuck in survival mode, Naomi pivoted. She got a contractual job at Con Edison, one of the largest energy providers in New York, as a systems administrator a big break that gave her financial stability and confidence.

But her ultimate dream wasn’t to remain employed it was to create something of her own. Something grand. Something unforgettable.

A Millionaire Dream on the Hudson

 Naomi is preparing to launch a luxury boat service on the Hudson River—becoming the first African immigrant woman to do so.

“This is not just about business. It’s about history,” she said. “I want my fellow Kenyans to come and witness it. I’m placing a boat in the Hudson. That’s our flag—right there on the water.”

Her goal is to shatter the glass ceilings often placed above Black individuals, particularly women of African descent, in America.

“We come here and most of us become nurses or do home health care. It’s good work, but why should we all be boxed in the same professions? Why not entrepreneurship?”

A Wake-Up Call to the African Diaspora

Naomi’s story resonates beyond her personal experiences, it speaks to the African diaspora at large. She is challenging the norm, pushing her peers to look beyond comfort zones and embrace risk, creativity, and ownership.

“We need to economically ‘colonize’ America,” she says with a cheeky laugh. “Not through power, but through property, presence, and purpose.”

Her message is clear: Africans in the diaspora must dream bigger, work harder, and own a slice of the global economy.

Healing, Faith, and Moving Forward

Despite the betrayal she experienced in her marriage, Naomi holds no grudges. She is focused on growth for herself and her children. Her experiences with emotional manipulation, financial stress, and identity loss have only strengthened her resolve.

“I’ve cried. I’ve knelt. I’ve been broke. But I’ve never lost faith,” she reflects. “And that’s what keeps me going.”

Her children, who witnessed both her suffering and resilience, now look at her with admiration. They see not just a mother but a trailblazer, a woman who fought through storms to claim her dream.

His sudden suicide intensified the public’s awareness of him, with reports stating he was found deceased inside his residence.

During Njambi’s requiem service at Nairobi Chapel on Thursday, Mr. Koikai expressed profound regret for not being fully present in her life.

Reflecting on their relationship, he recalled both the good and difficult times they shared.

“When times were good, we would go shopping and have lunches at some of the restaurants in town,” he reminisced. “I really miss the good times we shared together. When times were bad, we would go for days and months without talking, for which I blame myself and always will, as I have lost the opportunity to mend fences with you.”

Let’s explore Ambassador Koikai’s life and career as a diplomat, including the countries where he has served:

Daniel Koikai joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1983 and served in various capacities.

He began as the Second Secretary at Kenya’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva, representing Kenya in international forums, notably contributing to the 1991 Conference on Disarmament.

After Geneva, Ambassador Koikai’s career took him to London, where he served as a counsellor at the High Commission of Kenya.

Subsequently, he was appointed Kenya’s ambassador to Nigeria. In 2008, he presented his credentials to then-President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia.

He also held a directorial role in the Kenya Southern Sudan Liaison Office.

Ambassador Koikai’s distinguished service was recognized with the Elder of the Burning Spear Award, bestowed upon him by former President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2018.