The narrative surrounding careers among Kenya’s Generation Z is shifting dramatically. Traditionally, white-collar jobs in law, medicine, finance, and technology have dominated aspirations. However, an emerging trend is reshaping career perceptions: the increasing appeal of skilled trades. From electricians and carpenters to plumbers and mechanics, young Kenyans are now seeing vocational careers not just as fallback options but as lucrative and rewarding professions. A significant catalyst behind this shift? Social media.
The Power of Social Media in Career Inspiration
Social media platforms have transformed how young people view employment and career growth. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter (X) are brimming with content showcasing the success stories of tradespeople worldwide. These digital spaces have removed the stigma once attached to vocational work, portraying skilled trades as dignified, well-paying, and even entrepreneurial.
Influencers within skilled trades now document their daily work, financial growth, and personal fulfillment, proving that hands-on professions are viable alternatives to traditional careers. Hashtags such as #SkilledTrades, #TradesSuccess, and #DIYKenya have gained traction, highlighting the craftsmanship and financial benefits of trade-based careers.
Economic Realities Driving the Shift
Kenya’s youth unemployment rate remains a pressing challenge, pushing Gen Z to reconsider their career choices. While university degrees have long been viewed as tickets to stable employment, many graduates struggle to find jobs matching their qualifications. Skilled trades, however, offer a more direct route to income generation. With apprenticeship programs, vocational training, and digital resources readily available, Gen Z sees trades as an opportunity for immediate employment and financial independence.
Additionally, Kenya’s booming construction sector, growing demand for tech-based artisans, and increased infrastructure development provide ample opportunities for skilled workers. Many young people recognize the profitability of learning a trade, as demand for expertise in plumbing, welding, and electrical installations continues to rise.
Entrepreneurial Freedom and Self-Sufficiency
One of the greatest appeals of skilled trades to Gen Z is the ability to build independent businesses. Unlike conventional office jobs, which often require long hierarchies and extensive experience before reaching financial success, trades allow skilled individuals to set up shop quickly. Many young Kenyans have embraced freelancing, leveraging digital marketplaces like Balozy, a service-based app connecting skilled workers with clients.
For many, this entrepreneurial model brings flexibility, financial control, and personal branding opportunities. Social media further accelerates this trend, as young artisans promote their services, showcase portfolios, and market themselves without needing traditional intermediaries.
Success Stories of Kenyan Tradespeople
Several Kenyan tradespeople have proven that skilled professions and entrepreneurship can lead to remarkable success:
- Lorna Rutto – Founder of EcoPost, a company that recycles plastic waste into fencing posts. She left her banking job to pursue this venture, which has created jobs and contributed to environmental conservation.
- Eric Kinoti – Founder of Systems East Africa, specializing in manufacturing military and relief tents, branded gazebos, and restaurant canopies. His business generates over $1 million in annual revenue.
- Catherine Mahugu – Co-founder of Soko, an e-commerce platform connecting artisans with global markets. Her work has empowered many Kenyan craftspeople to sell their handmade products internationally.
- Tabitha Karanja – Founder and CEO of Keroche Breweries, Kenya’s largest privately-owned brewery. She started small and built a successful business despite facing stiff competition.
- Vimal Shah – CEO of Bidco Africa, a leading manufacturer of consumer goods, including edible oils and detergents. His company has grown into a major player in the African market.
These individuals have demonstrated that skilled trades, combined with entrepreneurial drive, can lead to immense financial success and personal fulfillment.
Government and Institutional Support
Recognizing this trend, Kenya’s government and educational institutions are now focusing more on vocational training programs. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centers have seen increasing enrollment, catering to the rising interest in skilled trades. More policies are being introduced to support artisans, including funding initiatives for small businesses and certification programs to standardize skills.
Additionally, corporate organizations are partnering with schools to create apprenticeship programs that connect students with skilled mentors. This has made the transition into trades more structured, giving young Kenyans a clearer pathway to professionalism.
Changing Perceptions and Future Growth
The cultural perception of trades as “less prestigious” careers is eroding. Today’s youth appreciate the craftsmanship, creativity, and innovation that vocational work brings. As social media continues to highlight success stories of tradespeople thriving financially and professionally, Kenya’s Gen Z is embracing this shift wholeheartedly.
In the coming years, more young people will choose skilled trades over traditional career routes, making Kenya’s vocational workforce more competitive and respected. With increasing digital engagement, government initiatives, and industry growth, skilled trades are poised to become some of the most sought-after professions among the new generation.
The skilled trades revolution is happening fast, and Gen Z in Kenya is leading the charge. Are you seeing this shift in your circles? Let’s keep the conversation going.
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