Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho has faced a number of questions and criticism over his wealth and lifestyle over the years. From his education credentials to businesses and expensive clothing designs.
Joho while speaking with National Youth Council delegates during a question and answer (Q&A) session on Thursday, July 9, opened up on the inside details of his lifestyle which many Kenyans are privy of.
Joho recalled how he made his first million at the tender age of 20 as a clearing and forwarding agent at the Port of Mombasa before delving into how he spends his money.
"The challenges in High School like wearing my shirt one hour after washing it up shaped me to be who I am. When other students were going out for lunch I stayed back to read because I never had lunch yet we smiled and expressed contentment, while praying for our lives to change. That was part of the struggle," Joho divulged.
For him, the lessons he learnt through hard life are what he transformed into life perspectives. Joho stated that he lives his life independently with resilience, tolerance and philanthropically.
"I learnt how to share as you never know whether someone next to you is in a dire need. Whatever you have you must learn to give and stand for another. For me life is about being there for each other as you cannot read the minds and hearts of each other," he disclosed.
Joho argued that he hatched ideas in business and pursued an endeavour so difficult for other people to pursue. That led him to be a pioneer in activities youth were afraid to venture into as it required dedication and sacrifice.
The Governor added that all he does is to give back to society and teach others how to make money and life-changing decisions. Joho owns the Ali Hassan Joho Foundation credited for numerous social projects in Mombasa County and the Coast region that have positively impacted the lives of many people within the community.
According to Joho, everyone grows up differently and faces unique challenges due to different backgrounds but he learnt that there are opportunities for everybody. The only thing that one needs to do is find and carve their niche.
The ODM politician detailed that he was out to create an enabling environment for the youth and anyone who wants to strive in life.
"All of us have an ability in us. All we have to do is be responsive to the ability," Joho advised.
