Breaking Out of the Bubble: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Purpose

Escaping the Sheltered Life

Njoki Kariuki’s life story is one of resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of self-discovery. Born to a Kenyan father who had escaped the colonial era to pursue his education in East Germany, Njoki’s upbringing was marked by a strong emphasis on academic achievement. However, the traditional path of school and books did not excite her. After high school, she embarked on a journey of self-exploration, taking various short courses in Nairobi while enjoying the company of her friends.

This deviation from the expected academic trajectory led to a confrontation with her father, who deemed her “very unserious.” Faced with the ultimatum to either get a job or leave the family home, Njoki found herself at a crossroads. It was a pivotal moment that would shape the course of her life.

Embracing New Experiences

Njoki’s friend, who was already working, stepped in to help her secure an interview at one of the most prestigious hotel companies in the country. Njoki aced the interview and found herself immersed in the luxurious lifestyle of a hostess on a 110,000-acre ranch in Isiolo. This experience, though initially thrilling, soon revealed the limitations of her sheltered upbringing. Njoki embraced new hobbies like birdwatching and horseback riding, gradually expanding her horizons.

After three years of climbing the corporate ladder, Njoki decided it was time to pursue higher education. She made the bold decision to study in the United States, where she faced the unexpected challenge of becoming a single mother during her second semester. Determined to continue her studies, Njoki negotiated with the dean to allow her to bring her child to school, enduring the daily commute and the difficulties of being a student-parent in a foreign country.

Finding Purpose and Giving Back

Upon returning to Kenya, Njoki’s life took another turn when her father passed away, leaving her grappling with grief and uncertainty. However, she found the strength to move forward, navigating the challenges of single parenthood and building a successful career in the hotel industry. It was during her 30s that Njoki realized she had lost touch with her true self, leading her to embark on a journey of self-discovery.

Njoki’s life-changing moment came when a chance encounter with a friend revealed the stark divide between her own privileged existence and the reality faced by many Kenyan women who could not afford basic sanitary products. This realization sparked a deep desire to make a difference, and Njoki found herself drawn to the work of the “Padman” in India, who was providing affordable sanitary pads to underserved communities.

Inspired by this example, Njoki and her brothers set up a small factory to manufacture affordable sanitary pads in Kenya. This venture led her to engage with the YWCA, where she discovered her passion for mentorship and community service. Njoki’s journey had come full circle, as she found herself connecting with young women and breaking down the barriers of the “bubble” she had once inhabited.

Weathering the Storm and Emerging Stronger

The COVID-19 pandemic presented Njoki with another challenge, as the loss of jobs and food insecurity in her community demanded her attention. Undeterred, Njoki mobilized her networks and resources to organize food distribution efforts, reaching nearly 100,000 people in various communities. This experience, which she describes as “miraculous,” allowed Njoki to reconnect with her younger self, the adventurous spirit who had once embraced new experiences without fear.

In her 50s, Njoki reflects on the valuable lessons she has learned throughout her life. She encourages young people in their 20s to make bold decisions, break out of the bubbles created by their parents, and experience the world before the responsibilities of adulthood weigh them down. For those in their 30s, she emphasizes the importance of taking risks and starting a business, as it becomes more challenging with age. In the 40s, Njoki advises finding one’s purpose, as it is the key to finding joy and balance in life.

Njoki’s story is a testament to the transformative power of self-discovery, resilience, and a commitment to serving others. Her journey has taken her from the sheltered confines of her upbringing to the heights of personal and professional accomplishment, and ultimately, to a deep sense of purpose in empowering and uplifting her community. Njoki’s story is a powerful reminder that breaking out of our bubbles and embracing the challenges of life can lead us to our true calling and a life well-lived.