In today’s rapidly evolving job market, digital work offers unprecedented opportunities for those willing to adapt and learn. With the rise of remote work, online platforms, and digital skills, many are finding new ways to transform their passions into successful careers. Maitha Mathias, a dedicated writer from the Democratic Republic of Congo, exemplifies this shift. Since moving to Uganda in 2016, Maitha has harbored a deep passion for writing but never imagined it could become a viable career.
His journey took a pivotal turn in May when he discovered the Online Gig Work program. Designed to equip refugee and host community youths in Kampala and Nakivale with essential digital skills and connect them with online and micro work opportunities, this program offered Maitha a chance to turn his passion into a profession. Intrigued by the potential, Maitha applied and was thrilled to be accepted. “When I got accepted, I was thrilled. I knew this was a chance to unlock possibilities I hadn’t thought of before,” he recalls.
The program began with an intensive two-week training session, covering artificial intelligence, digital storytelling, and crucial soft skills. Maitha described the experience as both challenging and rewarding. “Even though it was just two weeks, it felt like a year. I learned so much, and it made me hopeful about my future,” he says.
Following the training, participants entered a mentorship phase tailored to their strengths. For Maitha, this meant focusing on writing. With guidance in content writing and copywriting, he felt his passion for writing aligned with his professional growth. “The mentorship was exceptional. I received personalized advice that greatly boosted my confidence and skills as a writer,” Maitha shares.
As the mentorship phase concluded, the program— an initiative by ILO PROSPECTS under the PROSPECTS Program, funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Uganda and implemented by StartHub Africa, began connecting participants with real-world opportunities. While some peers secured international jobs, Maitha started receiving various writing assignments, including stories, articles, and ghostwriting. He embraced these new challenges with enthusiasm. “Writing became part of my daily routine. I now complete stories in days rather than weeks, and it’s incredibly fulfilling,” he says.
Maitha’s daily routine now revolves around writing, earning a substantial income from his craft. Reflecting on his journey, he feels immense gratitude for the Online Gig Work program. “Before this, I had the passion but lacked the skills and confidence. The program gave me both. I’m thankful to ILO PROSPECTS and StartHub Africa. for this life-changing opportunity,” Maitha expresses.
With newfound skills and confidence, Maitha is excited about the future. “The program has given me the confidence to believe in myself and pursue my dreams. I’m ready for whatever comes next and am deeply grateful for this chance.”
