By Jane Okoth
“Hard work, determination and discipline can change one’s life,” says Lazarus Vigodi Ighacho, Wildlife Works’ Assistant Workshop Administrator. His job involves anything automotive; purchasing spare parts, construction materials, welding and electrical appliances. Lazarus is also in charge of maintaining all fleet-related records and documents as well as scheduling repairs. “My tasks also include preparing regular reports on vehicle mileage, fuel consumption and maintenance as per the required standards,” he says.
Lazarus poses for a photo at Wildlife Works offices.
Currently, Lazarus is working with other staff to distribute buckets, soap, and facemasks donated by Wildlife Works to communities living in the Kasigau Corridor as a humanitarian response to COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. “I help to organize transport services when needed and during emergency cases,” he says. “I am also in charge of purchasing and supplying food supplies and essential items to rangers who are on patrol as well as scheduling repairs and maintenance services for their vehicles,” he adds.
Being a second born in a family of five and growing up in Mwatate in Taita Taveta County, Lazarus dream was to become an Automotive Engineer. In 2011, he saw an advertisement at the local chief camp looking for casual workers. “I applied and was employed in Wildlife Works’ construction department on a contract basis. Since I had a passion for cars, I spent my free time helping out at the workshop garage,” he says. His hard work and passion paid off when Workshop Manager Nicholas Ndau recommended him to work in the vehicle maintenance department.
In 2015, Lazarus pursued his dreams further by enrolling for a Diploma in Road Transport Management at Eldoret Technical Training Institute. After completing his studies, he was recalled to Wildlife Works as an Assistant Workshop Administrator on permanent basis.
Now in his present position, the father of one has gained valuable experience in his career. “My job enables me to maintain a happy and healthy life while handling challenges positively,” he says.
Lazarus working at the Wildlife Works’ workshop department.
Despite his accomplishments, his dreams and ambitions are far from over. “I have enrolled for a Diploma course in Supply Chain Management at the Coast Institute of Technology because I want to be fully versed in additional responsibilities,” he says. Lazarus’ advice to his peers is that when offered an opportunity, one should give it their best. Wildlife Works is happy to have hardworking and dedicated team members like Lazarus. We appreciate his work and commitment during these uncertain times.
