Gladice Kerubo, a dedicated teacher with 13 years of experience, found her career unexpectedly disrupted during the 2007/2008 post-election violence. This upheaval forced her to leave her teaching position at a primary school in Kapsabet, Nandi County, and embark on an unanticipated journey into the world of shoemaking.
Amid the chaos, Kerubo sought refuge in Elburgon, Nakuru County, where she joined her husband, a skilled shoemaker. The move, driven by the need for safety, would unknowingly lay the foundation for a profound transformation in her professional life.
At the time, Kerubo’s husband managed a shoemaking workshop in Elburgon but soon relocated the business to Nairobi. The workshop was left under the management of Kerubo’s cousin, Moses Arasa, an experienced shoemaker. It was here, under Arasa’s mentorship, that Kerubo’s journey into shoemaking began.
“I started watching my cousin at work, and I would ask him lots of questions about what I observed,” Kerubo recalled. Her curiosity and eagerness to learn did not go unnoticed. Arasa, recognizing her genuine interest, took her under his wing, patiently guiding her through the intricate processes of repairing and crafting shoes.
Before long, Kerubo transitioned from an observer to a proficient shoemaker, mastering the art of repairing shoes and designing and cutting leather for new creations. Her dedication and adaptability were evident as she embraced this new chapter with determination.
The shift from teaching to shoemaking was not without its challenges, but Kerubo found joy in her newfound craft. She highlighted the difference in engagement, stating, “In this business, I engage one client at a time, which is easier to manage compared to the large number of pupils I used to attend to, not to mention the parents.” The personalized interaction with clients brought her a sense of fulfillment she had not experienced as an educator.
Despite the drastic change in her career path, Kerubo has no regrets. The creative freedom, one-on-one interactions, and tangible results of her work have proven to be deeply satisfying. She credits her cousin for his pivotal role in her transformation, describing him as an excellent teacher and motivator. Their collaboration in the workshop stands as a testament to the power of mentorship and teamwork.
Kerubo and Arasa source their materials from Nakuru and Nairobi, carefully choosing suppliers to ensure affordability. However, Kerubo remains acutely aware of the societal stereotypes that persist in her field. “There are those who believe that this job is for illiterate people. For instance, a client once warned his child that he would end up doing ‘dirty work’ like mine if he didn’t work hard in school,” she shared, underscoring the misconceptions she occasionally faces.
Nevertheless, Kerubo’s journey from a classroom teacher to a skilled shoemaker is a testament to resilience and adaptability. Her story serves as an inspiring reminder that challenges can often lead to unexpected and rewarding opportunities.
