In today’s rapidly evolving world, digital skills have become a gateway to new opportunities, enabling individuals to transcend their circumstances and shape their own futures. For refugees like Eddy Murumbi, these skills are not just a means to survive but a pathway to thrive.
Eddy Murumbi grew up in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a country plagued by conflict and insecurity. Forced to flee his homeland, Eddy sought refuge in Uganda, eventually settling in Nakivale, one of Africa’s oldest and largest refugee camps. Despite the harsh conditions and limited opportunities, Eddy refused to let his circumstances dictate his future.
Before discovering the Online Gig Work Program, Eddy was deeply committed to Early Childhood Development (ECD), working as a teacher at Excellent Future Primary School. While this role gave him a sense of purpose, it also came with significant challenges. “Teaching was my passion, but without the proper resources and training, it was hard to provide the quality education I wanted to give,” Eddy recalls. Despite these obstacles, Eddy remained passionate about learning and self-improvement, teaching himself software tools like Photoshop. However, opportunities to further develop and apply these digital skills were scarce in the settlement.
Eddy’s life took a pivotal turn when he learned about the Online Gig Work Program, an initiative by ILO PROSPECTS under PROSPECTS Program, funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Uganda and implemented by StartHub Africa.
Eddy first heard about the program through social media and messages from friends on WhatsApp. Eager to enhance his skills and explore new opportunities, he applied and was thrilled to be selected. “When I was chosen to participate, it felt like a door to a new world had opened,” Eddy says. The program introduced him to the digital economy, where he learned how to navigate online platforms, craft compelling cover letters, and apply for gigs. These were new skills for Eddy, and the knowledge he gained proved invaluable, allowing him to build a professional online presence and tap into a global market.
The training sessions were well-structured, providing a supportive learning environment that exceeded Eddy’s expectations. However, he faced challenges, such as limited access to technology and the internet, which made it difficult to practice outside the sessions. Despite these obstacles, Eddy’s determination, coupled with the mentorship provided by the program, helped him build confidence and refine his skills. “The mentorship I received was crucial,” Eddy reflects. “It gave me the confidence to overcome the challenges I faced and helped me see my potential.”
One of the most impactful outcomes was his introduction to Kolaborate, a platform that connects freelancers with clients seeking specific skills. Through Kolaborate, Eddy secured his first gigs, marking the beginning of his journey as a digital freelancer. His first task—designing a certificate—was a success, boosting his confidence and motivating him to continue pursuing online opportunities. “Landing my first gig was a turning point,” Eddy shares. “It showed me that the skills I had learned could truly make a difference.”
In addition to freelancing, Eddy’s newly acquired digital skills proved beneficial in his teaching role. He was now able to design professional-looking certificates and reports for his students, a task he had previously struggled with. This improvement enhanced his work and demonstrated practical applications of digital skills in various aspects of life.
The impact of the Online Gig Work Program on Eddy’s life is profound. As he continues to secure more gigs, he envisions a promising future in the digital economy. His goal is to build a successful online career that not only supports him but also allows him to give back to his community. “I want to use my digital skills to create educational resources for the children in Nakivale,” Eddy explains. “My dream is to enhance their learning experiences; despite the challenges they face.”
Eddy’s message to others is simple yet profound: “Believe in the possibilities ahead, just like I did. You have the potential to achieve great things, and with the right support, you can showcase your skills to the world.”
