Graduate Engineer Flourishes in Art After Failing to Secure Employment, Shares Journey on TikTok
- When an engineering degree couldn't open doors, Wamae picked up a pencil and drew his path to success
- From sketching Kenyan celebrities to hosting art exhibitions, his journey is a powerful reminder that passion can outshine paper qualifications
- Today, he is an internationally recognised artist who mentors upcoming creatives with the mantra, “Draw it till you make it”
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After scoring 343 marks in KCPE and securing a solid B plain in high school, Wamae seemed destined for a conventional career path.
Source: TikTok
He pursued and completed a degree in Geospatial Engineering, fueled by the belief that academic excellence would naturally lead to success in the job market.
Wamae's frustrating job hunt
However, life had a different canvas in store. After graduation, job opportunities were hard to come by, leaving Wamae frustrated and disillusioned.
Amid uncertainty, he turned to something he had always loved but never truly pursued: drawing.
Leaning into his artistic gift, he began sketching portraits of Kenyan celebrities.
His striking works featured the likes of Nyashinski, Oga Obinna, DJ Krowbar, DJ Moz, and even international icon Lauryn Hill.
Wamae shoots to fame through art
His unique style and attention to detail quickly caught the attention of fans online, and soon, Wamae's name was trending beyond social media.
As his art gained traction, media houses came calling. Interviews and features followed, catapulting him into the public eye.
With a growing fan base and an impressive collection of portraits, Wamae eventually hosted his first art exhibition, showcasing not just his talent but also his resilience.
Today, Wamae is more than just an artist: he’s a mentor.
Wamae's motto
Drawing from his journey of disappointment, reinvention, and triumph, he now guides aspiring creatives on how to harness their talents and push past societal expectations.
His story serves as a beacon of hope for many young people struggling to find their place in a tough job market.
His motto, “Draw it till you make it,” is more than just a catchy phrase; it’s a testimony of grit, faith, and the power of believing in oneself.
Wamae’s life proves that while degrees may open doors, passion and persistence can build doors where none existed.
Source: TikTok
Social media reactions
Franck_Odhis
"My parents lied to me to leave my talent and study medicine. Saa hii sikumbuki kudraw."
Mwita.fidel
"I don't know if I have said it loud enough, but bro, this is massive. Tell that story through art."
Ella:
"Sasa na hii degree in Mass Communication yangu jamani nitashift kwa talent gani na sioni nikiwa nayo?"
Kitale graduate finds peace in grocery business
In another part of the country, Silas Wabwoba has built a reputation as one of the most sought grocers in Kitale town.
Silas, who graduated with a diploma in welding and fabrication in college, chose to do business after failing to secure gainful employment in his line of work.
The 32-year-old told TUKO.co.ke that he was inspired to become a grocer to follow in his mother’s footsteps.
His decision, although unpopular with many, paid off handsomely as he currently runs a successful grocery store with a loyal fan base.
Proofreading by Mercy Nyambura, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
