- Naomi Thuo has become one of the most popular mechanic in Naivasha.
- Before she ventured in this male dominated career, she worked in the hospitality industry
In a world where stereotypes often dictate career choices, there are individuals who defy these norms with sheer determination and passion.
Naomi Thuo, a 29-year-old Kenyan woman, is one such inspiring figure who has shattered gender stereotypes by pursuing her dream career in a male-dominated field—automotive mechanics.
Here is her story as told by WOK.
From a young age, Thuo developed an affinity for motor vehicles that would ultimately shape her future.
Her childhood fascination with cars led her to believe that her career path would inevitably be intertwined with the world of automobiles.
However, life took an unexpected turn when she landed a job in the hospitality industry.
Thuo’s journey into the hospitality industry might have provided her with a stable job, but it couldn’t quell the burning desire she had to work with cars.
She felt that something was missing, a void that could only be filled by pursuing her passion for mechanics.
This longing was so powerful that Thuo made the brave decision to quit her job and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
She left her hometown in Nyandarua and relocated to Naivasha, where she enrolled at Wambari Technical College.
This marked the beginning of her formal education in motor vehicle repair and mechanics. The decision to leave behind the comfort of her previous job and embrace the unknown world of mechanics was a testament to her unwavering commitment to her dreams.
Thuo’s journey was far from smooth.
Life had thrown challenges her way, including an early departure from formal education when she became pregnant and had to drop out of school at the age of 14.
Nevertheless, her passion for mechanics was undeterred.
She knew that the automotive world was her calling and that she needed to learn the trade to support herself and her child.
Born in the Kinangop area of Nyandarua County, Thuo’s decision to relocate to Naivasha to chase her dreams was the first step on her remarkable journey.
She joined her sister in Naivasha and began her quest for a career in mechanics, initially working in the hospitality industry to make ends meet while the allure of garages and engines tugged at her heart.
While Thuo’s heart was set on becoming a mechanic, it wasn’t without its challenges.
Even within her own family, she faced resistance when expressing her desire to pursue a career in mechanics.
The road ahead seemed daunting, as she confronted a society that often favored male mechanics over their female counterparts.
Despite these obstacles, Thuo remained steadfast in her pursuit.
She was determined to prove that gender should never be a barrier to pursuing one’s passion and dreams.
Thuo’s resilience and dedication led her to excel in her chosen field, even without the formal certifications she initially sought.
Not having completed her course at the technical college due to financial constraints did not deter Thuo.
She believed in learning on the job, and over the years, she amassed a wealth of practical experience that helped her become a sought-after mechanic in Naivasha.
Her dedication to honing her skills and delivering top-notch service to her clients set her apart in a male-dominated industry.
Thuo’s journey in the automotive world spans over a decade, and during this time, she has grown immensely as a mechanic.
She has acquired a wide range of skills that enable her to perform her duties with a level of expertise that rivals, if not surpasses, her male counterparts in the garage where she operates.
Her motivation is deeply rooted in her desire to provide the best service to her customers and ensure a good life for her child.
Thuo also aspires to advance in her career, showing that there are no limits to what a person can achieve when they pursue their passion relentlessly.
Furthermore, Thuo is on a mission to inspire other young women to break free from societal constraints and venture into so-called male-dominated careers.
Her very presence in the world of mechanics serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment for women who may have been discouraged from following their dreams due to gender biases.
