Ahmed’s journey: from vocational training to entrepreneurship

Ahmed, a 20-year-old young man from Abosto Kebele in Shashamene Town, Ethiopia, faced significant challenges early in life. He dropped out of school due to financial difficulties and moved to Addis Ababa in search of work. He found a job as a waiter in a café, where he worked for five months. Despite his efforts, his meagre income was not enough to cover basic living expenses such as rent, food and clothing. Struggling to make ends meet, he returned to his family in Shashamene.

Discovering the SHINES project

Fortunately, while in Shashamene, Ahmed came across information about Dorcas Ethiopia’s SHINES project, which offered vocational training to unemployed youth. Ahmed was selected as one of 670 participants for a five-day training session. The training, facilitated by experts from DOT Ethiopia, covered key areas such as business development skills, life skills and entrepreneurship.

Reflecting on his experience, Ahmed said: ‘The five-day training helped me understand my potential, set clear goals and develop a vision for my future. I gained essential skills in business planning, teamwork and the positive attitude needed to succeed in the business world. I can now map my business assets, communicate effectively, manage stress and make informed decisions to succeed in life and business.’

Growing the business and providing employment

Inspired by the training, Ahmed decided to use his five months’ experience in Addis Ababa to start a breakfast and snack service business. Although he struggled to secure start-up capital from credit service providers due to a lack of collateral, he turned to his family, relatives and friends for support. With their support, he raised enough money to start the business. Ahmed’s business began to flourish. He employed three local youths, saved some money and earned his own income.

Expressing his satisfaction with his progress, Ahmed said: ‘I am happy to provide employment for the young people who work with me. I have become a reason for them to lead a productive life without having to migrate. I have bought a modern machine to make chips from local potatoes. I now have substantial savings in my bank account and continue to save. In the near future, I plan to expand my fast-food business into a café near the main road.’

Ahmed is not only transforming his own life, he is also contributing to the success and progress of his employees. He is optimistic about his future and the impact he can continue to have on his community.

Find out more about Dorcas’ work in Ethiopia.

25 March 2025