John Mungai’s journey from a challenging start to success is a source of inspiration for many Kenyans seeking opportunities overseas.
Leaving school at Class seven marked a pivotal moment in Mungai’s life, leading him unexpectedly to the United States, where he now serves as the CEO of Njung’wa Diaspora Television.
His story began with an initial pursuit of tailoring skills after he couldn’t complete primary school due to his humble background. Relocating from Rift Valley to Gikomba, Nairobi in the 1980s, he started a business that laid the groundwork for his future.
However, Nairobi life posed challenges, and a financial crisis forced him to return home. Undeterred, Mungai ventured into selling second-hand clothes, known as mitumba, until a government ban altered his path.
Adapting to change, he shifted to selling artifacts at a curio shop, only to face displacement due to road construction. It was during these tough times that Mungai applied for a green card, a decision that would reshape his life.
Securing the green card in 2003, he raised funds through a successful fundraiser, enabling his family to start a new chapter in the United States.
“The fee was paid, and my family was allowed into the country. We finalized the process, and it’s been over 18 years now,” he recalled.
Transitioning to the U.S. presented its own challenges, but Mungai embraced various jobs before finding success in a delivery service, eventually investing in a truck.
Now as CEO of Njung’wa Diaspora Television, Mungai uses the platform to connect with fellow Kenyans abroad, providing guidance and fostering community engagement.
In an interview with KDTV, Mungai stressed the importance of patience and hard work, encouraging those facing economic hardships in Kenya to persevere.
Acknowledging his journey’s difficulties, he shared the challenges of supporting family members who often rely on assistance. “Success requires hard work and careful planning,” he affirmed.
