John Mungai’s journey from grass to grace inspires Kenyans seeking greener pastures overseas.
Mungai, a Class Seven dropout, started working as a tailor until getting a green card and moving to the United States, where his life changed for the better.
He asked Kenyans who are dealing with difficult economic conditions to be patient in their current circumstances.
Mungai admitted that due to his impoverished upbringing, he was unable to complete his basic school education. He learned practical skills, such as tailoring.
He later relocated to Gikomba, Nairobi from the Rift Valley region in the 1980s to start a business, where he eventually settled and started a family.
However, life in Nairobi was not rosy, and after experiencing financial difficulty, he chose to return home.
Back at home, Mungai refused to give up and began selling second-hand clothing known as mitumba before the government prohibited them.
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He moved to sell antiques in a curio shop before being evacuated to make space for road development.
Mungai filed for a green card and was fortunate enough to be granted one in 2003, allowing him to travel with his family.
He funded his trip through a fundraising.
“I paid the necessary fee and signed for my family to be allowed into the country. We finalised the process and it’s been more than 18 years now,” he said.
The father of three is currently the CEO of Njung’wa Diaspora Television. He uses the site to connect with Kenyans living in the United States and other nations.
While in the United States, Mungai worked many jobs before purchasing a truck for delivery services. He revealed that the venture has helped him raise and support his family in the United States.
While in the United States, Mungai worked many jobs before purchasing a truck for delivery services. He revealed that the venture has helped him raise and support his family in the United States.
Mungai recommended Kenyans to work hard in their existing occupations while they wait for better possibilities.
He mentioned that his biggest struggle was attempting to assist family members. He complained that some people relied on handouts instead of investing the money they received.
