Rebecca Owino’s extraordinary journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a successful entrepreneur and esteemed cabin crew member with Etihad Airways is a testament to her unwavering determination, resilience, and the transformative power of seizing opportunities.
Rebecca’s story begins in the midst of adversity. Raised in a dysfunctional family, she assumed the role of a caregiver from a young age, navigating the challenges of a single mother supporting several siblings. Her life took a poignant turn when she moved to Nairobi as a teenager, finding refuge with her sister, who worked as a domestic worker, and her sister’s husband, a construction laborer.
Financial constraints led Rebecca to make a life-changing decision: to forge her own path independently. This decision marked the beginning of a challenging journey that would eventually lead her to a distinguished career and entrepreneurial success.
Rebecca’s first taste of the job market came when she took on the role of a nanny in Komarock. Little did she know that this challenging position would serve as a stepping stone to a brighter future. Despite the hardships she faced, including an unsettling experience with inappropriate advances from her employer in Buruburu, Rebecca’s determination remained unshaken.
A turning point in Rebecca’s life occurred when she sought refuge in the JCC church, finding support and guidance under the leadership of Bishop Allan Kiuna and Reverend Cathy Kiuna. The church not only provided emotional comfort but also became a sanctuary for her studies. Rebecca took advantage of the educational opportunities offered by the church, enrolling in Gumbaru schools where she completed her secondary education, including the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Exams (KCSE).
Education wasn’t the only pursuit on Rebecca’s plate. During this time, she discovered her passion for modeling, a dream that had been deeply ingrained within her. Encouraged by supportive individuals who recognized her potential, Rebecca used every break she had to perfect her skills. Reverend Cathy Kiuna played a pivotal role during this period, offering unwavering support and covering Rebecca’s rent as she navigated the challenges of city life.
While attending Gumbaru classes and pursuing her passion for modeling, Rebecca secured various job opportunities in Nairobi. One such opportunity was working as an usher at the Tusker Project Fame competitions. Simultaneously, she continued to attend Gumbaru school, demonstrating her commitment to education.
The pivotal moment in Rebecca’s journey came when she learned about a job opportunity in Dubai for sales personnel. With courage and determination, she applied for the position and successfully landed the job. Dubai became the catalyst for a remarkable transformation in Rebecca’s life. Immersed in the vibrant city, she took steps towards realizing her lifelong aspiration of becoming a flight attendant. Rebecca’s persistence and dedication paid off when she secured a position as a cabin crew member, allowing her to travel globally and work with some of the world’s largest airline companies.
Leveraging her position, she made strategic financial decisions, including investing in the construction of two-bedroom flats. Through her entrepreneurial endeavors and determination, Rebecca eventually became the proud owner of a five-bedroom mansion. Today, Rebecca Owino stands as an inspiration to many, urging fellow expatriates to invest a portion of their salaries and prepare for unexpected circumstances.
