Benard Kiprono: From Selling Mitumba to Winning a Green Card, to Joining the US Air Force

The United States is renowned worldwide for its abundance, prosperity, and boundless opportunities.

Previously residing in Kapseret and working as a second-hand clothing vendor in nearby Kericho, Bomet, and Kapkatet, Benard Kiprono had long yearned to live amongst the residents of the 'land of plenty'. His opportunity arrived two years ago when he resolved to follow his dreams in the United States, becoming a citizen upon joining the US Air Force.

In his inspiring episodes on his YouTube channel, Benard reflects on the ambiguity he faced when seeking a green card. With the knowledge that many applicants falter in this process, he and his partner contemplated strategizing both their submissions for the DV program. After eagerly anticipating the results, Benard rejoiced to find out he would be included among the group of fortunate recipients. His successful application meant that his wife and four children would travel alongside him to embark on a new life in the U.S.

He recalls earlier receiving a letter purportedly from Central Michigan University that urged him to make a payment through M-Pesa, striking suspicion in him and leading him to question its authenticity. After consulting the U.S. Embassy, Bernard learned that university emails conclude with the extension "edu". In anticipation of the approaching DV23 season, Bernard made active preparations. Additionally, he went ahead and formalized his marriage. When the time rolled around in October 2021, he promptly submitted his application and even applied for his wife as the primary applicant as well.

Fortunately, his application was accepted. Unfortunately, there were further obstacles in the form of high processing costs. The medical evaluation was set for September with the embassy interview the following month. Having limited funds and a family of four to provide for, he made the difficult but necessary decision to sell off his plot of land for Sh 1.5 million. This money was then allocated to the myriad expenses that arose such as medical costs which totalled Sh 157,000 at IOM in Nairobi, the embassy fee, the Green Card fee, and last but not least, airfare to America.

After filling out and submitting his DS260 form, he found himself staying with his step-sister following his arrival in the US. The flight cost him Sh 425,000, ultimately touching down at a Chicago airport. Ten days after settling in the US, he received his social security benefits. It took him almost a month to start searching for his first job. His initial job was at Home Depot but he eventually pursued a military recruiter position. He spent time doing research for initial vetting before the recruiter contacted him. Due to the age criteria, Benard decided to join the Air Force as it was one of the few branches accepting individuals of his age.

He completed his military cyber security exams, passed all the physical training tests, and within 7.5 weeks, he was officially hired. This employment opportunity made him eligible to become a citizen of the United States.

"I chose a finance role and now work as a Finance Controller. A military job not only grants you citizenship within a short period but also provides accommodation for you and your family. They offer allowances whether you live on or off base. Additionally, they provide mortgage loans with zero interest, and you only have to cover inspection costs for your house." he says.