For 26-year-old Valentine Chepkirui from Nairobi, success was never about buying herself a flashy car or chasing luxuries. Instead, her dream was simple yet profound—to build a decent home for her parents in Kericho.
That dream, which began in 2019, became a reality in December 2021 when construction was completed. But without furniture, Valentine could not host a housewarming. Rather than give up, she came up with a creative solution. She formed a WhatsApp group with close friends, explained her situation, and together they raised Sh250,000. With the funds, she furnished the home, bought essential appliances, and finally opened the house during Easter 2022.
“When I visited home, I couldn’t imagine parking a car next to my parents’ dilapidated house. That’s when I decided to build them a new home,” Valentine recalled.
Originally, Valentine had planned to buy a car. But she chose to prioritize her parents’ dignity and comfort. With only limited savings, she began small, later receiving Sh200,000 from her mother’s pension to kick-start construction. When her sister lost her job during the Covid-19 pandemic, and with her parents unable to contribute much, Valentine still refused to abandon the project.
Her determination was unshaken. Even while supporting her three younger sisters, she saved diligently and pressed on. By 2021, the house was nearly complete. With the extra support from her friends, she was able to purchase stylish furniture, a fridge, and a microwave, giving the home the warmth and beauty her parents deserved.
The housewarming was an emotional moment. Valentine’s mother broke down in tears, overwhelmed by the realization that her humble background had blossomed into such a blessing.
Valentine’s story is one of selflessness, resilience, and vision. She urges others never to give in to negativity:
“It won’t be easy. When we first started, some people doubted that we’d finish. Others assumed I had a sponsor. But if you believe in your dream, you’ll make it.”
