A young-man’s determination in overcoming obstacles to achieve success.
In amidst of chaos in the urban life, a young man’s quest for a better life resonates profoundly. Today in world where young people are the majority their struggles to make ends meet are seemingly familiar. As Emmanuel embarked on his daily hustle, fuelled by an unyielding passion to uplift his well-being, his aim of shattering the cycles of poverty around him are still far fetched. However, when financial hardship stole his chance at formal education, Tamale Emmanuel discovered a new classroom – his brother’s workshop at Lubya , Munaku settlement; a new Path to success hit his resilient life to a journey he chose to carry on until today having dropped out of school after senior four.
Despite his chattered dreams of becoming a civil engineer, Emmanuel faced numerous challenges after this setback, one of which was watching his friends pursue further education while he struggled to find his place. As he navigated this difficult time, he witnessed many of his peers succumbing to destructive habits like substance abuse. But, Emmanuel chose a different path. Inspired by his elder brother’s entrepreneurial spirit, he joined his brother’s workshop as a part-time carpentry assistant. Little did he know, this decision would unlock his hidden potential. Over the passed two years, Emmanuel honed his skills in carpentry and joinery, transforming his passion into a daily source of livelihood and inspiration.
During two-year journey of self-discovery, he acquired a plethora of skills beyond carpentry, including social etiquette, self-esteem, mangemental skills and self-conduct. These skills paved another way for numerous opportunities. It was during this period that he met Mr. Ndawula Josphate, who introduced him to the Akwatta Empola Lubya Women’s Group Lubya under National Slum Dwellers Uganda and ACTogether Uganda . Through this association, he learnt valuable lessons on saving, leadership, participating in group projects such as piggery, poultry, and urban farming.
Mr. Josphate has become a significant source of inspiration for him, exemplifying exceptional hard work, leadership, and expertise in carpentry. Under his guidance, he has perfected skills and developed a keen sense of entrepreneurship. Notably, he has also learnt the importance of capital accumulation, saving, and investments like buying his own machines and tools. This foresight has enabled him to efficiently fulfil client orders and expand his business.
In his line of duty, Tamale faced numerous challenges. First, as a father of two, managing his carpentry business at the workshop is a constant juggling act. Timber prices keep on fluctuating uncontrollably especially during festive and rainy seasons, finding clients for his products is a daily struggle, and delayed payments are a commonplace. With his limited capital, saving is a Herculean task, while demands are endless. Despite these hurdles, he remained determined to achieve the best in life .
When his regional leader invited him to join the Youth Inclusion Programme, he seized the opportunity. This initiative reignited a passion he had harboured since his school days. Through the program, he connected with fellow youths who shared similar experiences and strategies for overcoming challenges. Together, they exchanged ideas and supported one another, fostering growth and resilience. Amidst the turmoil, this unity has been a beacon of strength and future hope.He was supported by the programme with the grant which he used to successfully purchase timber and assembled two door frames and two doors.
My intention is to showcase these products, generate some profit, and gradually expand my business over time. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the program’s coordinator for this invaluable support, especially during this challenging period.
I’m so passionate about encouraging fellow youth to make informed choices and prioritise their well-being. I advise them to focus on constructive pursuits and avoid harmful activities that put their lives at risk. Hands-on skill-building activities are the way forward, offering a relaxing and lucrative path. By developing practical skills, young people can.
Written by Lutankome Benon; Know Your City TV Lubaga, Kampala, Uganda.
