Written by Maureen Onyango, Communications and Advocacy Lead, with insights from Ronald Owino.
Determined to break free from a cycle of unemployment, Ronald Owino is now making his way in the digital economy thanks to CFK Africa’s TechCraft project. “Since joining TechCraft, everything about how I work, learn, and plan for the future has shifted,” he said.
A 23-year-old living in Kibera with his brother, Ronald struggled with unemployment for a year after his data annotation contract ended following eighteen months of work.
“The unemployment period was tough. I wanted to stay productive, but gig opportunities were scarce,” he shared. “Then a friend told me about TechCraft, and I applied. That’s when the journey began.”
With a background in digital work, Ronald was interested in joining TechCraft’s tech hub track, which builds youths’ digital skills to prepare them for dignified employment in the tech sector. The program began with a three-month refresher course in digital literacy, setting the foundation for flexible and independent work. After completing training, youth in the program are eligible to utilize CFK’s Digihub space to conduct work for freelance gigs. This flexibility is ideal for Ronald: “Unlike my previous job, the Digihub offers a more flexible work environment. I can work at my own pace, apply for as many gigs as I can handle, and still have time to manage personal responsibilities.”
But what has really set his experience with TechCraft apart is the community. “One of the most fulfilling aspects of this program is the peer learning environment. I’m not just gaining skills but also sharing what I know with others. I’ve had the chance to support my fellow trainees in areas where I have experience, especially in data-related tasks. At the same time, I’ve expanded my skill set to include data entry, transcription, and software development, all highly marketable in the digital economy.”
The program connects youth with interested employers, building bridges between talented youth and industry needs. “The structure of Digihub allows us to connect directly with clients, and the effort you put in determines your earnings; something that’s taught me responsibility and discipline,” he added.
Beyond technical training, TechCraft provides financial literacy training for youth to manage their earnings. “TechCraft helped me grow in areas I didn’t expect. Through financial literacy training, I’ve learned how to manage my income better.” Thanks to the program, Ronald is increasing his economic mobility: “I now understand how to save through a SACCO (Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization) and plan ahead,” he said.
Ronald is committed to continued learning, growing, and giving back. “Looking ahead, I see myself in a supervisory or mentorship role within the next three to five years. I’m already supporting the program coordinators in training other youth, and I hope to continue growing into a position where I can give back and help others in my community find their path through digital work.”
“If there’s one thing I want young people to hear, it’s this,” he emphasized, “TechCraft isn’t about your grades, it’s about your passion and commitment. Many youth think opportunities like this are out of reach because of academic qualifications, but I’m living proof that’s not always the case. A new cohort is starting soon, and I encourage anyone interested to apply. You never know how far it could take you.”