i am sure we’ve all been told at some point in our lives the kinds of jobs we should aspire to, or perhaps more accurately, the type of people we should aspire to be in the future- that being a doctor, a pilot, or a politician would suffice. These professions, as honourable as they are, aren’t the only choices for a career path. The assumption that having a white-collar job is the definition of success has created certain stereotypes in society, leading some people to give up on their dreams or to dismiss their talents as mere hobbies, despite the fact that they could undoubtedly make a living or have an impact on others. According to Valentin Uwimana, a photographer, people we hold in high respect, most notably our parents, may misguide us regardless of the their good intention to offer guidance on which careers to pursue. “Such preconceptions are imparted in us by our parents, and their parents before them. And while we don’t doubt their intentions, they often force us into jobs that are unrelated to our interests or capabilities,” he says. Uwimana believes that this limits children from exploring their full potential. According to suggestions made by different people, below is a list of some of the undervalued professions, but they are not exhaustive; Barbers/Hair dressers: Barbers make a living out of shaving or grooming hair and beards. For those who keep their hair long, hair stylists braid it. People frequently dismiss this career yet end up paying them a lot of money for their services, which is ironic. This occupation requires certain skills and creativity. Not everyone is capable of doing it, or at least doing it well. Mixologists: A mixologist is someone who can make cocktails or come up with inventive ways to mix various drinks. These are frequently confused with baristas, although their jobs are distinct. They are not only well compensated, but they are also in short supply. Tattooist: Tattoo artists are seen not only as non-professionals, but also as outlaws in places where tattoos are not very popular. In Rwanda, however, tattoos are getting trendy, and tattooists are among the busiest people during the week, with individuals making appointments from Monday to Sunday. Disk Jockeys ‘DJ’: These are artists that make remixes, tracks, and mixes of existing songs or beats in order to perform them in front of an audience or sell and distribute them. Despite the fact that this occupation has not been existent for long in Rwanda, it should be highlighted that DJs have carved out a space for themselves in the country’s music sector. They are not only making money out of it, but are also adding a beautiful touch to events. Body guards: These are people hired to escort and protect people; their services are mostly required by celebrities or any other popular figures. A professional bodyguard should be certified and skilled. This isn’t only a man’s job, women can be bodyguards too and it doesn’t require you to be a certain size contrary to popular thought. There are certainly more underappreciated occupations like the ones mentioned above, and many misconceptions and myths surround them. Wicksell Mukalai, a student at the University of Rwanda, believes that it is unfair that certain professions are undervalued just because the country is not yet developed. “When someone says they’re studying music or acting, they’re automatically assumed to be unemployed in the future. Though such people are regarded as icons in some developed countries,” he explains. Fred Bishanga, a teacher at New Life Christian Academy, believes that all professions may contribute to a country’s development provided they are valued and invested in, appropriately. Diverse professions should hence be respected and given the dignity they deserve, for they all have capacity to make a difference in society, in their respective circles they serve.
