Frank joins the green movement

Hey,

Welcome to Green Jobs Rising!

In our ‘Recent Hires’ segment, we’re excited to feature Frank Mubangizi, a civil engineer from Uganda who’s now working with EarthEnable, a social enterprise transforming rural housing across East Africa (Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya).

Q: Could you introduce yourself?
A: My name is Frank Mubangizi, I’m 27 years old and from Uganda. I’m a passionate civil engineer with a bachelor’s degree in the field. I’ve been working as an engineer since 2017, and in 2023, I joined EarthEnable, a social enterprise on a mission to revolutionise the rural housing industry. Their focus is on creating healthier and safer homes through innovative, affordable, and sustainable building products. I started out as a Construction Officer in Uganda, and later got promoted to Construction Manager for the country.

Q: What attracted you to the green sector?
A: Honestly, at first, I thought green jobs were just a scam. On social media, you see these posts about green opportunities, you apply, but you’re never shortlisted, not even called. In engineering, yes, there’s money, but when you look at where the world is heading, you realise we’re moving away from traditional factory methods and anything that isn’t eco-friendly. In 2023, a friend working with Easy Housing told me about their work, their impact, how they reduce carbon emissions, and I felt inspired. Some time later, while browsing LinkedIn, I saw a job advert for a construction officer. When I read more about EarthEnable, I realised they were making a real impact in green construction. I applied, got shortlisted, and joined the team in 2024.

Q: How was your transition from traditional engineering to the green sector?
A: It was tough at first. The construction methods were completely different, no sand for plastering, no cement for flooring. I was honestly confused and even thought of quitting. But after our first regional meeting with the CEO, she explained the company’s long-term vision, and I was really impressed. The vision was not something that would soon end, but a long-term plan to impact lives for more than 30 years. I understood the company’s long-term vision. That conversation changed my perspective. Within a few months, I had fully embraced my new role. 

Q: What part of your job excites you the most?
A: Definitely travelling. My role allows me to move around a lot, about four to five countries a month. I love working in villages where we transform homes from poor conditions into beautiful, safe spaces. Seeing clients happy, sometimes even gifting us chickens or goats in appreciation, makes me proud of the work we do.

Q: Which African countries have you travelled to through your job?
A: I’ve worked in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Ethiopia, and DRC. Next quarter, I’m planning to travel to Nigeria as well.

Q: What is a common misconception about green jobs?
A: Many people think green jobs are either scams or only for older, more experienced people. But here I am, a senior manager at 27. Green jobs aren’t about age or years of experience, they’re about mindset, passion, and willingness to learn.

Q: What advice would you give young people reading this newsletter?
A: Jobs are scarce in Africa. When you find an opportunity, whether it pays well or not, give it your best. Green jobs may not always offer the highest salaries, but if you work with passion and prove your skills, they can be incredibly rewarding and meaningful.

Q: What’s one thing you wish you’d known earlier in your career?
A: I wish I’d known about green jobs right from the start of my engineering career. If I’d had this exposure earlier, my CV and experience would be much stronger by now. The truth is, most people, even students, don’t know much about climate change or green jobs. If there were more platforms on X, TikTok, or other social media spreading this information, it would become part of everyday conversations and inspire more young people to get involved.

In this short clip, Frank shares practical tips on how to show up and excel even when you feel underprepared.