Innovation is key to turning youth into industry solution providers

Innovation is key to turning youth into industry solution providers
Festus Maina, is on a mission to impact people on modern practical investments and and providing solutions to real-world problems.

NAIROBI, Kenya Jan 29 – In the quest for resolutions that inspire personal growth and societal impact, a Kenyan university lecturer and entrepreneur, Festus Maina, has set his sights on a mission: impacting people on investing and fostering effective career growth strategies.

A dynamic individual in his mid-30s, Festus shares his passion for strategic problem solving and achieving financial freedom through his various roles.

As a dedicated lecturer in tourism management at the Co-operative University of Kenya, he advocates for teaching with modern innovations, turning young innovative minds into functional and industry-based solution providers.

“By solving real problems better, people will look for you. And if people look for you, money, a successful career, and a great business come automatically,” he says.

His expertise extends to consulting, particularly in investment and tourism. He is also the founder of Naicef Limited, the only fintech company in Africa.

Reflecting on his journey, Festus acknowledges the challenges he faced, notably the meager salaries offered to fresh graduates in entry-level positions.

“My first job was lecturing at a local college, earning KSh 50,000. I started side hustles to sustain my livelihood, with the inevitable challenges that come with every new business,” he says.

Despite these challenges, Festus persevered, drawing strength from his passion for lecturing and witnessing positive transformations in people’s lives.

Over time, his extensive experience in lecturing and entrepreneurship has allowed him to overcome obstacles, contributing to a more stable and successful career.

Banking on his commitment to inspire others, Festus has expanded into publishing, releasing two impactful books: “Swings to Parenting.”

His first book, “Real Growth Hacks,” addresses the challenges that youth face in choosing, growing, and succeeding in their chosen careers.

When asked about advice for young graduates, Festus, who is pursuing a Ph.D. in tourism management, emphasizes the importance of individuals mastering their areas of interest and providing solutions to real-world problems.

MOSES MUOKI

Moses Muoki has a decade of experience in videography and photojournalism. His passion is in telling human interest stories through the eyes of the most vulnerable in the society. He believes that the world can be changed one shutter-click at a time.