Working on Kenya’s largest infrastructure project an honour
Miriam Cherono loves her job. She does not sit in an office but is a loader driver working on the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- My grandma Nancy Tanui is my beacon of strength; she epitomises strength, resilience and hope. She has taught me perseverance and consistence.
- I got enticed to go to college to study plant operation at Matasia campus in Ngong by my grandmother who is my mentor and biggest supporter. I was the only other girl in a class of 54 students who undertook the course.
- I would have loved to study procurement, since I have a strong affinity to business. I am a business lady in waiting!
Q: Who is Miriam Cherono?
I am an outgoing, fun loving 23-year-old-lady. I am easy going, and I love socialising.
How did you end up operating heavy equipment?
I got enticed to go to college to study plant operation at Matasia campus in Ngong by my grandmother who is my mentor and biggest supporter. I was the only other girl in a class of 54 students who undertook the course.
How do you thrive in a male-dominated industry?
I find the job exciting and physically demanding which explains why my male colleagues admire my courage and strength.
What does your job entail?
Breaking rocks, levelling services, digging trenches and rescuing truck drivers when they get stuck in mud.
Take us through a day in your life
I start my day at 5.30 am, and at 6 am I head to the yard where my excavator is parked. Before I start the engine, I check the hydraulic breaking system, engine oil, transmission oil and the level of water. I start the engine and let it warm up for eight to 10 minutes before I set out.
What is your main challenge?
Most of our supervisors from China Road and Bridge Corporation are Chinese who lack fluency in the English language. However, I have learnt some Chinese and my superiors have learnt some Swahili. Initially it was difficult being instructed but now everything has smoothened out. The Chinese are fast learners.
How has the journey been?
At the onset it was treacherous and seemed bleak, working with so many people in a new environment and for an employer from a foreign country. Things have now changed. I have gotten accustomed to my work environment. I thoroughly enjoy my job!
Who is your role model?
My grandma Nancy Tanui is my beacon of strength; she epitomises strength, resilience and hope. She has taught me perseverance and consistence.
What career accomplishments are you most proud of?
Working on Kenya’s largest infrastructure project since independence – the Standard Gauge Railway.
What did you study?
I went to Chelilis Girls’ High School in Nandi and then to Matasia Campus in Ngong Town for my college education.
Tell us about your family?
I am the eldest in a family of three, and my parents are employees of the Unilever Tea Factory in Kericho. We are a simple but closely knit family.
What career would you have loved to pursue?
I would have loved to study procurement, since I have a strong affinity to business. I am a business lady in waiting!
Would you wish that your daughter takes after you?
Not at all. I want my daughter to get a better education than myself and get a much better paying job than mine!
What do you do at your free time?
I spend most of my free time with my friends who are my colleagues at the China Road and Bridge Corporation section 5 operation zone in Kiu, Makueni County.
Your dream holiday destination?
Canada. During my high school years, I met missionaries from Canada who helped construct dormitories for my former school. I was touched by their warmth.
Which car are you?
Am a BMW. It’s Elegant and sleek.
What are your future plans?
I would like to venture into business when I raise enough capital. I’m thrilled by machines, so I would like to sell vehicles.
