Kenyan businessman and tailor Bolo Bespoke has questioned why some degree holders remain financially strained despite having academic qualifications, arguing that being too selective about jobs can sometimes limit opportunities.
In a video shared on his Instagram page late at night on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, Bolo challenged graduates who, in his view, overlook certain jobs because they do not match their academic qualifications or expectations.
He said some degree holders approach the job market with high expectations while avoiding opportunities that could help them gain experience and earn an income.
“Kwa nini hampendi kuambiwa ukweli? Acha nirudie tena. Degree holders, karibu wote hukua na maringo kuchagua kazi na wengi wao ni very poor. Where is the lie?” Bolo said.
Bolo’s journey started small
Bolo also used his own experience to explain why people should not be afraid of starting from the bottom. Before building his current business, he says he began by working as a fundi and gradually developed his skills and experience.
“Mimi nilianza polepole kama fundi,” he said.
For Bolo, starting with a hands-on job was part of the process of building a career rather than something to be ashamed of. He pointed out that the skills he gained from those early days have since helped him create opportunities for other people.
“Sahii mmejaa kwa inbox yangu mkiniomba kazi,” he added.
His experience reflects a wider argument often made about practical skills, where people can start with small jobs, gain experience and later turn those skills into businesses.
The education and jobs debate
Bolo’s comments come as young Kenyans continue to debate the value of academic qualifications in a job market where having a degree does not always guarantee employment.
For many graduates, the challenge is not simply finding a job but finding one that matches their qualifications, salary expectations and career goals.
This has also sparked discussions about whether young people should take available opportunities while continuing to work towards their preferred careers.
Some jobs that do not require university qualifications can provide practical experience, income and skills that may later be useful in starting a business or moving into another field.
Bolo’s story highlights the role that practical skills and experience can play alongside formal education. For young people entering the job market, the experience also raises the importance of being willing to learn, gain practical skills and build experience while working towards long-term goals.
