Stephen Otieno, business owner. [Photo: Courtesy]

I dropped out of Moi University in 2013 to concentrate on my business. I was a third year student pursuing a degree in Business Management.

My business journey starts back in 2012 when I used to work at a printing shop during the holidays as a hand help. The shop used to provide graphic design and printing services and most of my boss clients thought I was a graphic designer, but I wasn’t.

One day, one of my boss’s client encouraged me to apply for a job as a graphic designer at his friend’s company since he thought I had the necessary skills. I went for the interview knowing deep down that I had no skill at all in graphic design and I failed terribly. I felt terrible and spent the all weekend learning graphic and designing.

I went back for the interview again and failed terribly, but I didn't give up. I kept educating myself on graphic design concepts, and when I felt I was ready, I applied for the job and got it! I worked there for a couple of months before heading back to Eldoret to continue with my studies.

On campus, I found myself concentrating more on graphic design than on my education.  A friend who I used to do his graphic design work came to me and asked if I could design him a website for Sh4,000 for the service. Since the pay was good, I went to the University library to teach myself website designing. 

READ MORE

 Moi University cannot retrench its way out of crisis

 Former Moi University workers threaten to return to court over unpaid dues

 Why Moi University remains in the red one year after recovery plan

 Inside looming mass firing at troubled Moi University

I dropped out of campus in 2013 to pursue my interests and I formed The Beldin Creations, which specialises in graphic designs and website creation. I manage the company to date.

For a basic site, I charge Sh18,000 a package which includes the design, domain and hosting. The most expensive website I have created cost Sh110,000. I have so far designed 87 sites, and I have grown to over 200 clients both in graphic and web design. I make Sh80, 000-150,000 a month.

I’m currently working on my new project Axcellent suits, which sells suits to both men and women. With the high rates of unemployment in the country, I have no regrets about dropping out of school.