Despite missing an opportunity to study interior design as his favourite course, Alex David has exhibited his prowess in moulding sophisticated designs for high-end houses owned by some of Kenya's most affluent figures.
His artwork in designing and decorating flowerbeds, pillars, and windows has attracted fame from different quarters.
In an interview with Kenyans.co.ke, Alex stated that he has worked for prominent persons in Kenya, including incoming president William Ruto, Mandera Senator Ali Roba and Soy Member of Parliament David Kiplagat.
Born in a family of eight, his upbringing was characterised by financial constraints as they sometimes slept on empty stomachs. He says that he discovered his artistic skills from his childhood days when he used to assist his fellow pupils to draw school diagrams.
Alex, 27, started the moulding10 years ago in Mombasa when he met Indian merchants who specialized in house decor. His father was also a craftsman who operated a business that targeted tourists in the coastal city.
He used to assist his father in smoothening the curio when he developed an interest in crafting. At first, he made moulded designs from wood before changing to working with cement and sand.
Although he struggled to market his skills in the early stages of his work, Alex says his artwork was gradually earning fame and recognition from pertinent players in the construction industry.
Among the major projects Alex worked on in his outset days, he says, were the crocodile carvings at the Mamba Village in Mombasa.
In 2015, he moved to Nairobi to reestablish his trade in Nairobi. Securing jobs in the city was not a walk in the park as mouldings were by then not as popular as they are now. He had to explain to construction managers what the art entails and at times would have to demonstrate to them.
The managers fell in love with his skills, a moment he says was his breakthrough point. Referrals started coming his way from suburbs in Nairobi and its metropolis.
The growing number of clients necessitated more manpower and hence prompted the recruitment of more workers.
Alex is currently managing Prezzo Logistics Moulding, a company that specializes in exterior and interior moulding. He has trained young unemployed youths through apprenticeships which he says helps to equip the youth with relevant skills.
Alex, however, decried Kenya’s overreliance on foreign products rather than promoting local industries and products. He has pleaded with the incoming government to ensure that local industries are protected from imported products and labour.
“There are many talented youths in Kenya but they have struggled to fulfil their potential. Government should endeavour to give youths an opportunity to utilize these talents.”
