Entrepreneur Patrick Oluoch Photo Courtesy//
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” This quote by Winston Churchill mirrors the journey of Patrick Oluoch, a man whose path from humble beginnings to becoming the founder of Olupatoh Enterprises Ltd.
Patrick’s early life in his Kaugagi Village, Alego Usonga, was marked by hardship. He worked long hours fishing at the lake to earn the small sums needed for basic needs like a school uniform and tuition fees.
Despite these struggles, he excelled academically, finishing second in his class at Hawinga Primary.
While this was a game-changing victory for Patrick’s humble family, the road ahead was difficult—financial constraints delayed his entry into secondary school, and when he finally enrolled, it was well into the first term. His dream of completing secondary education was cut short in Form 2 when he had to drop out of Barding Boys due to lack of fees.
However, Patrick wasn’t one to give up easily. He found casual work in Lodwar, where fate introduced him to Eng. Ben, a well-wisher whose intervention would change his life.
Oluoch says that he wouldn’t have completed his secondary education were it not for this man.
“Without his support, I wouldn’t have completed my education. Eng. Ben’s help enabled me to return to school, and despite the harsh environment of the Turkana, I completed my KCSE at Nawoitorong’ Secondary School.” he recalls.
The financial struggles didn’t end after high school, but Patrick’s determination remained unshaken. Through the support of Eng. Ben, who organized a fundraiser for his college fees, and with help from others like Martin Otieno Juma, CEO of Mijesh Enterprise, Pastor Sospeter Aming’a, Managing Partner at Soklaw firm, and Charles Owino, former police spokesperson, Patrick was able to pursue further education.
“The encouragement I received from others when I thought I couldn’t go on made all the difference. As a student leader in college, I was able to navigate the difficulties of higher education, supported by small stipends and the responsibility of leadership.” Patrick notes
It was during this time that Patrick discovered his passion for entrepreneurship. After a period of unemployment, Patrick got an opportunity to do painting work for Pastor Sospeter Aming’a. It was during this job that Pastor Aming’a, noticing Patrick’s potential, encouraged him to register a company.
“It was God’s grace,I was s excited when Pastor Aming’a challenged me to register my company. It gave me an opportunity to start exploring the business world and engage with different stakeholders.”Mr. Oluoch says
Being that the registration requirements were handled by Pastor Aming’a, Patrick has faced challenges in developing the company profile, obtaining NCA certification, and convincing potential clients of the company’s capability to deliver quality services, something he says he will work effortlessly to achieve.
Despite these hurdles, Patrick remained determined. He envisioned Olupatoh Enterprises Ltd. growing into a leading force in supplies, building, and construction.
“In five years, I see the company creating at least 100 job opportunities, both directly and indirectly, for the youth,” he says,
Having gone through both formal and practical learning systems, Patrick is a firm believer in the value of hands-on skills. “Education should equip you with real-world skills that can lead to employment opportunities,” he explains. His passion for education is deeply personal, shaped by the challenges he faced in his own academic journey. He dreams of establishing a foundation to help vulnerable children access education, ensuring they have a chance at a better future.
For the youth, Patrick offers this advice: “Don’t compare your journey to others. Stay focused, work hard, and never stop learning. The world is always changing, and you need to adapt.” He emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and resilience, urging young people to build their networks and invest in themselves, as this will lead to success in the long run.
Oluoch’s motivation is deeply rooted in his commitment to making a meaningful impact on his community, particularly by empowering vulnerable children to access education. Having faced numerous challenges himself, he understands the transformative power of hard work, resilience, and belief in one’s potential. Patrick’s personal journey fuels his determination to establish a foundation that will support those who, like him, face obstacles in their pursuit of education.
As we conclude our virtual interview with the visionary young entrepreneur, he urges the youth to embrace self-reliance, lifelong learning, and integrity, emphasizing that success is not about competing with others, but about competing with oneself and striving to make a positive change in society.
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