Marya Okoth, the former partner of comedian YY and mother of one, recently reflected on her life in the public eye. Speaking to Nairobi News, she opened up about the blessings and challenges of fame, her experiences with social media, and the impact of her personal life being under constant scrutiny.
Marya shared how social media has transformed her life in ways she never anticipated. She described it as a platform that not only brought her unexpected fame but also became a source of income and a viable career path. However, this newfound visibility came with its own set of challenges, including the pressure to live under public observation. “You have to live a certain way because people are always watching,” she admitted.
One of the key lessons she highlighted was the importance of self-perception in the face of public judgment. “You can’t control how people perceive you,” she explained. “While you can shape your actions and carry yourself well, you can’t dictate what others think.” This awareness has helped her navigate the complexities of public life.
Marya acknowledged that her journey has been shaped by both positive and challenging experiences. She sees every moment, whether good or bad, as an integral part of her growth and identity. “I don’t want to forget any part of my journey because every moment has contributed to who I am today,” she noted.
Despite the opportunities social media has provided, Marya admitted that it has come at the cost of her personal privacy. She described the trade-off required to succeed in the digital space, which often involves exposing aspects of her personal life. This openness also invites judgment and scrutiny, particularly the expectation of perfection. “People don’t expect you to make mistakes, and when you do, they’re quick to judge,” she said.
The interview comes two months after Marya and YY publicly announced their separation in September 2024. While Marya has maintained a relatively private approach to the breakup, YY has been more vocal, sharing his thoughts on healing and moving forward. In an interview with SPM Buzz in late October 2024, YY emphasized the importance of not delaying personal recovery after a breakup. “If you give yourself more than six months after a long-term relationship ends, you will never move on. Relationships are a risk, but I’m doing this for me,” he shared.
YY also clarified the nature of their union, which, while not legally formalized, carried the weight of a committed partnership. Speaking to Ankali Ray, he stressed the mutual respect they shared, dismissing rumors that their relationship was a casual arrangement. “In as much as we didn’t get married legally, we respected each other. The papers are just a formality,” he explained. He further urged people not to diminish the significance of their bond by mischaracterizing it as a mere “come-we-stay” arrangement.
The former couple shares a three-year-old daughter, a connection that remains central to both their lives. Marya and YY’s reflections offer a glimpse into the challenges of balancing personal and public life, as well as the lessons they’ve drawn from their journey together.
