I am Mark Kisienya, a ReachUp! Intern with Digital Opportunity Trust-Kenya. I am a diligent and self motivated man. I enjoy learning new ideas and brushing shoulders with people who are wiser than I in the field of my interest.

I pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics-Statistics option at Maseno University in Kisumu City.My experience in community related activities has mainly been through church activities like evangelism, and donating food and clothes to those less privileged than myself.

News about Digital Opportunity Trust-Kenya came to me while I was managing the family public transport service business. My duties there involved collecting money from the conductor at the end of each day, paying daily wages to the driver and conductor and making sure the vehicle is serviced once per week.

I decided to join DOT Kenya because of what it stands for - a community centred organization, mandated to promote entrepreneurship and increasing youth employment, career skills and experience in a competitive environment and market. I realized that this organisation would help me to gain new skills and learn new ones, hence, the decision to join the DOT team. The interviews were quite challenging but I am glad I got through. The continuous learning process and opportunity to give back to my community is indeed a great plus.

The two phased trainings, online and face to face, empowered my understanding tremendously. The learning environment was safe and trusting which enabled me to learn, share, practice and express myself without fear.

In my community placement at Tuungane Youth Project, I am learning to appreciate that the young people are eager and very receptive to new opportunities. I am striving to perform with enjoyment and understanding the core competencies -facilitate learning, coach participants through project, advocacy and conduct research. I am hoping to see the participants identify attractive and viable projects which they can turn into sustainable livelihood.

I hope to use the skills I am gaining to advance my leadership skills in order to secure a management position in one of Kenya’s fast growing organizations. I’d also like to identify more potential business opportunities for me and improve my family’s public transport service business (matatu).

I have proven beyond any reasonable doubt that I am at the right place in these moments of my life. I am so grateful to be part of this GREAT DOT COMMUNITY!!!