If You Can’t Get a Job, Why Not Create One (Part 2: Unlocking Ideas)

In the previous session, we explored the frustrations of job hunting and began to rethink the idea of creating our own jobs through small, actionable steps. Now, let’s dive deeper into how to unlock practical ideas.

John: But what if someone like me doesn’t have any special skills?

Mr. Najeeb: Good question, John. Let’s start with the basics. Many urban households don’t have washing machines. Offering laundry services — washing and ironing — solves a real problem. What do you need? Just soap and an iron.

Amina: (hesitant) But will people trust me with their clothes?

Mr. Najeeb: Trust is earned, Amina. Start with family and neighbors. Word of mouth is powerful. Speaking of practical solutions, how about collecting refuse dumps for households or offering water vendor services? In some communities, not every household has a water supply. You could fetch and deliver water to meet this need.

Amina: That’s smart. I know a few people who are always complaining about being too busy to handle things like that.

Mr. Najeeb: Exactly. And John, do you know how to use social media or write?

John: A little, but I’m no expert.

Mr. Najeeb: Expertise isn’t necessary to start. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork connect you to clients globally. Offer simple services like data entry, caption writing, or basic design. Additionally, you could help manage social media accounts, create content, or run marketing campaigns for small businesses. Start small, learn as you go, and grow your skills over time.

Amina: What about packaging and selling spices? I’ve seen people do that in my area.

Mr. Najeeb: Another brilliant idea! You can start by buying spices in bulk, repackaging them into smaller portions, and selling them at a profit. Market them on WhatsApp or local stores, and even explore Instagram to reach more customers.

Maryam: But what if people laugh at us (graduate) for doing jobs like this? Won’t it feel demeaning?

Mr. Najeeb: (smiling) I understand your concern, Maryam. But let me tell you something: there’s no such thing as a demeaning job when you’re working toward your goals. Let’s take examples of people like Alhaji Dahiru Mangal, AA Rano, and Audu Manager. Do you know the types of jobs they did before becoming billionaires? Alhaji Mangal started as a truck driver. AA Rano sold kerosene in jerrycans. Audu Manager started by assisting people with simple errands. Today, they’re icons of success. What set them apart? Their ability to repackage and rebrand their work. With your education, you can transform any job into a professional service. And one day, people will line up to learn from your success story.

Maryam: That’s inspiring. I never thought of it that way.

Mr. Najeeb: Exactly. Your knowledge and creativity will elevate whatever you do. Don’t let fear or ridicule hold you back. Now, let’s talk about resources to help you move forward.

Maryam: What resources can help us learn these skills?

Mr. Najeeb: Great question! For social media marketing, you can use Meta Blueprint to learn how to market effectively on WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram. Canva is an excellent tool for learning basic design. And for entrepreneurship and startup building, check out resources from Startup School. These platforms offer free courses and tools to help you grow.

In Part 3, we’ll see how brainstorming sessions bring these ideas to life, with practical examples shared by the graduates.