Jackjared Odhiambo
Jackjared Odhiambo grew up in Khwisero, Western Kenya, about eight hours from Nairobi. Strong performance in his primary school exams earned him a spot at Langata Boys High School, but financial challenges forced him to transfer to Raila Educational Center in Kibera. After completing high school in 2010, he worked at a local restaurant until Raila’s deputy principal recommended him to Digital Divide Data in 2012. He joined as a Data Management Operator earning 7,400 shillings (around $60) a month—modest, but enough to support his siblings while juggling rent, transportation, and school expenses. Three months later, he enrolled at Kenyatta University through DDD's work-study program, studying hospitality and tourism. The partnership between DDD and Kenya's Higher Education Loans Board covered his fees, which he's been repaying through salary deductions.
After graduation, Jackjared moved from associate to project coordinator, then team lead for a sports analysis project, then to the research department on the FamilySearch project. When COVID-19 stalled operations and projects dried up, his commitment to delivering quality work even on small tasks helped him transition into his current role as production manager. "One of the key lessons I've learned is determination," he says. "Success doesn't come on a silver platter. You have to work for it." He got married while at DDD, became a father of four, and rejects the idea that DDD is just a stepping stone—for him, it's a foundation where his life has grown. His proudest moments come from watching people he's coached and mentored grow into leadership roles, both inside and outside DDD. He's now the only person from his original cohort still at the organization, and he helps maintain two alumni WhatsApp groups: a general group with nearly 500 members and a welfare group of 65 who support each other through challenges.
