My name is Patrick Muuo Musembi from a remote village called Marwa in Makueni County. Currently, I am working as a Mechanical Design Engineer at Octavia Carbon. Designing and testing machines that will help reverse climate change, by removing Carbon Dioxide from the atmosphere.

As of right now, it is the only company doing such work in Africa. I’m sure you’re interested in knowing how I found myself in such a situation. Being the first born in a family of 9 kids, I matured quicker than most. I attended the local village school and, with dreams of becoming a pilot, I put in the work.

In 2011, I sat for my KCPE. Having attained 395 marks, I emerged as the second-best performer in the zone. My journey with Co-op Foundation began soon after as I had no clue of how I would attend Maseno School, where I had been called to.

There was a hopelessness that started to seep into me as I had missed schools had been open for 1 week and I was still at home. That is until Co-op Foundation came to my aid. By taking charge of my studies, I was able to achieve A- (79 point) in KCSE, granting me a chance to attend university through the University Scholarship Programme.

Although it was not the Flying School I had dreamt of as a child, I was able to join The Technical University of Kenya to pursue a degree in Mechanical engineering. That time comes with a new set of challenges and responsibilities, but I graduated from the 5-year course with a Second-Class Upper Division.

This grade plus the job I have now was not possible through hard work alone, but also by believing in God. As it is written in Proverbs 3:5-6 put all your focus on God and He shall direct your path. We may not be able to see your life’s path to the end but take every step with prayer.