If You Can’t Get a Job, Why Not Create One (Part 1: Wake-Up Call)

In a vibrant community hall, twenty eager recent graduates sit in anticipation. Their eyes reflect a mix of curiosity and cautious hope. They’ve gathered for a transformative workshop titled Unlocking Possibilities, designed to challenge conventional thinking and inspire an entrepreneurial mindset.

At the helm is Mr. Najeeb, a seasoned facilitator known for his dynamic approach to learning. He steps forward, a warm smile on his face, and sets the tone for the day.

Mr. Najeeb: “Before we dive in, let’s start with an activity. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Take a look at this image.” He unveils a thought-provoking picture: a precarious plank bridge over muddy water, with a man sitting comfortably on a plastic chair by the edge (picture below).

Mr. Najeeb: “What does this image convey to you? What comes to mind when you see it?”

(The participants exchange puzzled looks, then hands shoot up.)

Maryam: It’s an image of a cruel person trying to take advantage of the pedestrian.

John: He is passing time enjoying the serenity of the pond.

Amina: He is taking advantage of the situation to provide a solution to the societal problem so that he can earn money while helping passersby.

Mr. Najeeb: Excellent observations! This is the entrepreneurial mindset — seeing opportunities where others see challenges. Now, let’s build on this.

Mr. Najeeb: How many of you have sent out dozens of job applications without a single callback? Frustrating, isn’t it? Now, imagine if you could create your own job starting today. What would you say to that?

Maryam: (skeptical) Sir, starting a business isn’t easy. It requires money, and most of us don’t have that.

John: Hmm… I don’t know. I’ve never calculated it.

Amina: Even if I had the money, I wouldn’t know where to start. What kind of business would I even do?

Aliyu: I would need guidance to even know if my idea makes sense.

Mr. Najeeb: These are valid concerns. Let’s rethink this together. What if I told you there are ways to earn money without spending a single kobo?

(The graduates exchange puzzled looks.)

Mr. Najeeb: Let’s play a quick game. Imagine you had to earn some money today without any capital. What would you do?

(After a moment of silence, tentative ideas start to emerge.)

John: Maybe washing clothes for people?

Amina: Collecting refuse dump for households?

Maryam: Offering tutoring to kids in my neighborhood?

Aliyu: I’d fix broken electronics; I’m good at tinkering with gadgets.

Zainab: I could cook and sell simple meals like jollof rice in small portions.

Ahmed: I might try offering car washing services to my neighbors.

Mr. Najeeb: Excellent! Now we’re getting somewhere. These are practical ideas. Let’s expand on this. I’ll show you how small actions can create significant opportunities.

Mr. Najeeb: Before we close, let’s highlight the skills you’ve all shared. For instance, tutoring, cooking, and fixing electronics are skilled activities. On the other hand, tasks like refuse dump collection, car washing, and washing clothes might be considered unskilled. But here’s the essence: every one of these skills can be the foundation of creating something meaningful. You already have the tools — use them to start something. Even overlooked abilities can spark change and create value.

Watch out for Part 2, where we dive into unlocking ideas and exploring practical ways to start earning without capital.