Kenyan Dad Works on 3 Hours of Sleep to Raise 2 Daughters and Run His Dubai Business

A Kenyan father who moved to Dubai in search of a better life has transformed his fortunes, rising from a security guard to the owner of a fitness company while raising his two daughters alone.

Felix Shikoli Mate, 35, shared his inspiring journey on Instagram, detailing nearly a decade of sacrifice, setbacks and determination to build a better future for his family.

According to Gulf News, Felix arrived in Dubai in 2017 after selling some of his belongings and property in Kenya to finance the move. He paid an agent approximately Dh5,000 for an opportunity to work in the Gulf country, leaving his daughters behind.

He initially worked as a security guard, spending about two years at a building used by Emirates cabin crew. Outside work, he pursued his passion for cycling, eventually joining the Emirates Cycling Group, whose members offered him encouragement and valuable advice.

After his mother’s death, the group gifted him a road bicycle, strengthening his resolve to pursue his passion for fitness.

Felix later secured a job at a sports academy in Al Quoz, although a visa dispute resulted in him spending two weeks in jail. His new employer eventually paid the fine, enabling him to regularise his status and return to Dubai.

He worked at the academy for about four years, earning a personal trainer diploma and a driving licence despite financial difficulties.

When the COVID-19 pandemic cost him his job, Felix turned to freelance cycling coaching. The venture grew, eventually leading to the establishment of UAE Ninja Warriors, a fitness company that employs about 10 people.

The business offers coaching in cycling, swimming, running, football and general fitness, alongside obstacle-course activities for events.

Felix’s biggest motivation has always been his daughters. He eventually brought them to Dubai, where he now balances parenting, school runs and business responsibilities.

His daughters, now aged 14 and 11, have developed interests in sports, with the younger one earning recognition from Dubai Women’s Run and Dubai Fitness Challenge in 2025.

Despite setbacks, including the 2024 UAE floods that damaged nearly all his vehicles and recent regional tensions affecting his clients, Felix remains determined to push forward.

Reflecting on his journey, he said Dubai had transformed him from a security guard into an employer and reunited him with his children, giving his family a fresh start.

Source.https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19jt298oDV/