Dubai Single Father’s Journey from Security Guard to Entrepreneur Goes Viral

A Kenyan single father’s inspiring journey from working as a security guard to running his own business in Dubai has captured widespread attention online.

Felix Shikoli Mate, 35, recently shared photographs and reflections documenting nearly a decade of challenges, hard work and personal growth.

His post received hundreds of thousands of views within a day, touching readers with its honest account of raising two daughters while building a career.

Felix says his experience reflects the opportunities and hope he found in the UAE.

The story highlights his determination to create a better future for his family.

From Security Guard to Fitness Entrepreneur

Felix arrived in Dubai in 2017 after making significant sacrifices to secure employment in the city.

He initially worked in a security role, spending long hours at a building’s basement car park.

His interest in cycling helped him connect with a local cycling group, whose members offered guidance and encouragement during difficult times.

He later joined a sports academy, earned a personal training qualification and developed experience coaching fitness activities.

These steps eventually helped him establish his own company, UAE Ninja Warriors.

Overcoming Setbacks While Raising Two Daughters

Felix’s progress was not without difficulties.

A visa-related problem once led to a period in detention, while the COVID-19 pandemic and later flooding caused serious setbacks to his work and business.

Despite these challenges, he remained focused on providing a stable life for his daughters, whom he eventually brought from Kenya to Dubai.

When school fees became difficult to manage, he arranged homeschooling with support from others.

Today, he balances business responsibilities with his daughters’ education and sporting activities, often starting his day before sunrise.

Why His Story Is Inspiring People Across Dubai

Felix says the support of friends, members of the cycling community and people he met through work helped him move forward when life became difficult.

His company now employs around 10 people and provides coaching in activities including cycling, swimming, running, football and fitness.

He hopes his story will encourage others facing setbacks to keep working towards their goals.

For Felix, success is not only about business growth but also about raising confident daughters and building a supportive community.

He believes Dubai taught him to keep moving forward even when the journey becomes challenging.