In an era when stories of Kenyan nationals facing mistreatment and hardship while working abroad often dominate the headlines, it is refreshing to hear a success story that serves as an inspiration for those seeking opportunities in foreign lands.
Katerina Murigi’s journey is a tale of resilience, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of a better life in an unfamiliar country.
Katerina embarked on her overseas adventure in 2014, at the tender age of 22. Alongside three friends, she made her way to Saudi Arabia, filled with hopes and aspirations for a brighter future.
However, her initial experience in the foreign land was far from what she had anticipated.
Her recruitment agent had promised her a job as a driver, but upon arrival, Katerina found herself working as a house help, earning a meager monthly salary of Ksh18,000.
Despite this setback, Katerina’s indomitable spirit refused to be crushed. Her life took an unexpected turn when she connected with another Kenyan living in Saudi Arabia.
This fellow compatriot introduced her to an employer involved in the supply of baking goods. Recognizing her potential and her eagerness to learn, Katerina was offered a position in baking, an opportunity she eagerly seized.
In her new role, Katerina and her colleagues churned out an impressive 500 cakes a day for supply. Over the course of four years, she honed her baking skills and earned a commendable monthly income of Ksh60,000.
However, the dream of starting her own business beckoned, and in December 2018, Katerina made the decision to return to her homeland, Kenya, to embark on her entrepreneurial journey.
The year 2019 marked the beginning of Katerina’s cake business. She now not only creates delectable cakes but also delivers them to various corners of the country, catering to a diverse range of events, from graduations and weddings to birthdays and special occasions.
The entrepreneur conclusively detailed that she hoped to train more people on how to bake.
“I am looking for a venue to conduct the classes. I work at my workshop at home and would like to have a better place for the training,” Murigi explained.
She encouraged all those travelling to Saudi Arabia and other countries to be disciplined and follow the laid out rules.
“I know so many people who have succeeded in Saudi Arabia, all you require is discipline. Your employer is telling you to follow rules they also follow,” she urged.
