Former Kenyan Teacher Thrives as US Bus Driver, Celebrates Lucrative Income

Mike, a Kenyan native from Wanyororo B in Nakuru County, has realized his long-held aspiration of supporting his friends and family by immigrating to the United States.

Before his relocation, Mike's career in Kenya spanned various roles, including teaching and tourism. Despite his dedication as an educator where he taught Geography and Christian Religious Education at Gatero Secondary School and later at Kenyatta High School, Mike found his ability to assist loved ones constrained by his position. Seeking greater opportunities, Mike ventured into the tourism sector, initially working as a tour driver for Planet Safari Tours before establishing his own ventures, Migration Safaris and Maasai Mara Safaris.

However, the inherent instability of the tourism industry, particularly during periods of disease outbreaks and other disruptions prompted Mike to consider alternatives. In 2016, Mike made the courageous decision to relocate to the United States, accompanied by his wife and later joined by their children. Upon arrival, he demonstrated remarkable adaptability, taking on diverse roles in adult family homes, nursing facilities, and homes for individuals with disabilities. He even explored truck driving as a potential career path.

Mike's perseverance ultimately led him to secure a position as a metro bus driver, a highly competitive role that demands an impeccable record and comprehensive training. Sharing his experience in an interview on the KDN YouTube channel, Mike details the rigorous process he underwent to become a metro bus driver which included an intensive 33-day training program. He notes that the demanding nature of the training ensures that only the most committed and capable candidates succeed. He further states that the size of his class had reduced from 25 to 10 students by the program's conclusion.

In his current role, Mike's workday differs significantly from his experiences in Kenya. He works a minimum of eight hours daily, operating within a system that prioritizes efficiency over passenger volume. This approach is reflected in his compensation, with Mike earning approximately Sh 4,000 per hour and Sh 40,000 for completing 10 rounds. Mike's narrative echoes the experiences of other Kenyans who have sought improved prospects in the United States. Samuel Mulwa, for instance, found success as a truck driver after initially pursuing a career in the medical field.

Introduced to the trucking industry by a friend, Mulwa recognized its financial potential and made a career transition. His story, like Mike's, spotlights the challenges and rewards of adapting to a new professional landscape.