Alex David, a 27-year-old form four leaver, has defied the odds and made a name for himself in the construction industry in Kenya.
Despite missing the opportunity to study interior design, he has showcased his artistic talent by designing and moulding sophisticated designs for high-end houses owned by some of Kenya’s most affluent figures.
His artwork in designing and decorating flowerbeds, pillars, and windows has attracted fame from different quarters.
Alex has worked for prominent persons in Kenya, including president William Ruto, former Mandera governor Ali Roba, and Soy Member of Parliament David Kiplagat. Alex’s upbringing was characterised by financial constraints, and he discovered his artistic skills from his childhood days when he used to assist his fellow pupils to draw school diagrams.
Alex started moulding ten years ago in Mombasa when he met Indian merchants who specialised in house decor. His father was also a craftsman who operated a business that targeted tourists in the coastal city.
Alex used to assist his father in smoothening the curio when he developed an interest in crafting. At first, he made moulded designs from wood before changing to working with cement and sand.
Although Alex struggled to market his skills in the early stages of his work, he says his artwork was gradually earning fame and recognition from pertinent players in the construction industry.
Among the major projects Alex worked on in his outset days, he says, were the crocodile carvings at the Mamba Village in Mombasa.
In 2015, Alex moved to Nairobi to reestablish his trade, but securing jobs in the city was not a walk in the park as mouldings were not as popular as they are now.
He had to explain to construction managers what the art entails and at times would have to demonstrate to them. However, Alex’s perseverance paid off as the managers fell in love with his skills, which he says was his breakthrough point.
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Referrals started coming his way from suburbs in Nairobi and its metropolis. The growing number of clients necessitated more manpower, which prompted Alex to recruit more workers. He is currently managing Prezzo Logistics Moulding, a company that specialises in exterior and interior moulding.
Through his company, Alex has trained young unemployed youths through apprenticeships, which he says helps to equip the youth with relevant skills.
He believes that there are many talented youths in Kenya who have struggled to fulfil their potential. Alex, therefore, pleads with the incoming government to ensure that local industries are protected from imported products and labour.
He decries Kenya’s over reliance on foreign products rather than promoting local industries and products.
“There are many talented youths in Kenya, but they have struggled to utilise their talents,” Alex says. “The government should endeavour to give youths an opportunity to utilise these talents.”
Despite missing out on his favourite course, Alex has proved that with hard work and determination, one can achieve their dreams.
