6 MONTHS IN KENYA | Cost of Living, Making Friends, Transitioning Work

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  • Опубликовано: 2 ноя 2024

Комментарии • 559

  • @haroldotieno5804
    @haroldotieno5804 4 года назад +193

    I see what you're saying being reluctant about hired help, but look at it this way, whatever you pay the help, it makes a world of difference to the person and their family. Jobs are hard to come by in Kenya.

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +22

      Great point!

    • @ariefraiser140
      @ariefraiser140 4 года назад

      @Raj Even if every single person with means did that you would still have MILLIONS of poor people in this situation. Besides that.....the shear volume of people willing to work for a low price would put a co-op that pays higher wages to their workers out of business from competition who don't pay higher wages.

    • @whynotafrica7108
      @whynotafrica7108 4 года назад +3

      I wish you’d be more TRANSPARENT about the prices of living in KENYA.

    • @whynotafrica7108
      @whynotafrica7108 4 года назад +5

      Why would you be using Shea moisture when you have shea butter in Africa?

    • @whynotafrica7108
      @whynotafrica7108 4 года назад +1

      I hope that you pay her fairly and also tip her for her services

  • @fullmooninbloom
    @fullmooninbloom 4 года назад +262

    I like that imported goods are more expensive. Seems like a bummer in the moment, but an opportunity to support local long-term!

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +18

      That’s a good perspective, thanks!

    • @primelens1146
      @primelens1146 4 года назад +28

      The reason why there is high taxation on imported products is to promote local industries otherwise if you think about it, in terms of peanut butter, where and how will the Kenyan peanut farmers sell their produce? We have to keep our economy sustainable by encouraging local industry within our country to keep people employed. Choose to Buy Kenya to Build Kenya! By the way your skin is absolutely glowing.

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +11

      So with goods that are also manufactured here, high import taxes makes sense. However - in the case of peanut butter - I had to resort to using an imported brand because there were reports of aflatoxins in local brands and many of them were taken off the shelves. So there can be more work done to quality control locally made goods to encourage people to buy them. For things that aren’t available locally, the argument that taxation promotes local business doesn’t hold up. My breast pump for example - to my knowledge there aren’t any Kenyan made breast pumps (though if there are, please share!), so why tax people heavily on something they cannot get in the country? I’m hopefully though and will continue to buy local as much as I can!

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +9

      I forgot to mention, I actually just found a local peanut butter supplier!

    • @Ijusthavequestions
      @Ijusthavequestions 4 года назад +2

      Ijeoma Kola is that the blueband brand? I hear it's relatively new and people like it but I haven't tried it. Is it good?

  • @LooksByNaheemah
    @LooksByNaheemah 4 года назад +40

    It’s simple, she is a Nigerian American living in Kenya not really wanting to be in Kenya

    • @carbonado1
      @carbonado1 3 года назад +1

      That's the opposite of what I got. Sounds more like, adjustments she had to make and communications mix-ups w/ local processes. 6 months in a whole new country is not very long.

    • @femalehobbitwithhairyfeet
      @femalehobbitwithhairyfeet 3 года назад +2

      That's what I got too...

    • @Taylordessalines
      @Taylordessalines 3 года назад

      Pretty much. Nigerian Americans are sometimes more bougie than african americans. She is sweet though.

  • @beautifulblacksoul8611
    @beautifulblacksoul8611 4 года назад +137

    That's Caribbean behavior as well. Listen, black people are just naturally laid back, relaxed, and late. It's culture. Unless it's work or hospital hours, time is fluid. Lol

    • @animatedmoi
      @animatedmoi 4 года назад +5

      beautiful blacksoul I love that! “Time is fluid.”

    • @reneewambui896
      @reneewambui896 4 года назад +19

      We say in our Kikuyu culture"mathaa ni maGai"meaning time is for the Lord literally u can't control or predict time just go with the flow

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +28

      Haha even in the hospital folks were laid back. When I was in labor I was trying to tell the nurses I was ready to push and they were chilling 😂

    • @pmurigi
      @pmurigi 4 года назад +5

      @@IjeomaKolaYT 🤣🤣🤣🤣 surely even in the hospital I am done. I am Kenyan and I keep time lol hospital comment is too hilarious

    • @enterusername2855
      @enterusername2855 4 года назад +3

      Except for airports

  • @cardiyansane1414
    @cardiyansane1414 4 года назад +128

    Don’t waste money on imported processed junk good .. Just hit the market and buy local fresh 👍🏾

    • @theeway8332
      @theeway8332 4 года назад +2

      Preach💯❤

    • @bellaolum9768
      @bellaolum9768 4 года назад

      Agreed

    • @borninthe70speace43
      @borninthe70speace43 4 года назад

      Absolutely agree

    • @Malthizar
      @Malthizar 4 года назад +4

      You can take the African away from the whites but you can't take the white away from the African. She fooled a good Black man into thinking she was a good woman.
      I'm interested how long their relationship will last

    • @sandrapeterson1064
      @sandrapeterson1064 4 года назад +3

      @@Malthizar are lots of Kenyan men that weak where they're intimidated by a strong Black woman or is it just you?

  • @MichelleMoraaa
    @MichelleMoraaa 4 года назад +21

    I was born in Kenya but moved to Texas when I was 7 years old. I recently went back to kenya for the first time in 11 years and it was the best experience I’ve had thus far. I’m thinking about moving back when I’m much older!

    • @danokaris1968
      @danokaris1968 3 года назад

      Where in Texas,am in close to Austin and thinking of moving back.

  • @Jemalito
    @Jemalito 4 года назад +72

    Let’s just say it has to be understood that it’s just different standards of living. Things cannot be the same in NYC and Nairobi 😊😊😊

    • @BenTheSkipper
      @BenTheSkipper 4 года назад +2

      exactly!!!

    • @shyd.
      @shyd. 4 года назад +7

      Thanks tell her that comparison is ridiculous. If she decided to live there or stay there parmanently or on holiday, then she should embrace en appreciate the difference, without giving the people around the feeling of she prefers to be in NYC. Lol I live in Germany en the social life here is different, I don't keep comparing it on the face of the Germans, coz I should respect the fact that, that's their life style...unless am with ma fellow Kenyans or Russian friends or afew Germans that have a similar social life style like me, only then we do what we do, like being all loud en silly en goofy etc...but bottom line is respect is important on both sides.

    • @mireiification
      @mireiification 3 года назад +1

      She's an American no matter her African origin. She's used to American way of life and not be able to accept other cultures way of living is only her problem. Or problems of American people in general (if we're gonna generalize) And I dont mean to be rude by saying that, just the fact.

  • @malikyouell
    @malikyouell 4 года назад +44

    I been to Nairobi many times from Brooklyn,NYC. I am not used to left hand drive.However,life in Kenya is great!!!

  • @sweetestea
    @sweetestea 4 года назад +34

    Hope you’ll find the time to Learn Swahili at a fluent level. It’s quite common for expats to live in a bubble while overseas and leave without immersing into the host’s culture. It would be especially worth it as you do have Kenyan family members.

  • @LkeaFeather
    @LkeaFeather 4 года назад +32

    When my sister and I visited my family in Malawi, my uncle's family had a driver, a guard outside the home, and two women in the house cooking and cleaning. When my aunt told us "The girls are going to prepare you some traditional Malawian food." I thought she meant my cousins. Meanwhile, they were in the living room entertaining guests, and I was thinking "Who the hell is cooking?" It was the "house girls" preparing a feast and later they set out tea and dessert for us. Then in the morning, my sister and I were eating breakfast and saw the guard outside cleaning my cousin's car which opened up a conversation. My oldest cousin emigrated to Norway, but she was also there visiting, and she said it wasn't until she moved that she thought about all of this, but to her - a job is a job. Later that year, I moved to Thailand and had a serviced apartment. I appreciated the women who came to clean so much. The ladies were a riot and building a rapport with them made me realize that as long as people are getting paid fair wages, the only problem is in others looking down at these roles. It is a respectable job that helps out A LOT of people who need it. Also, in other cultures people take pride in their cleaning and cooking skills. I used to teach ESL and the Brazilian students all opened up cleaning services and made more money than me.

    • @africanglobalnomad
      @africanglobalnomad 4 года назад +1

      Preach! Everyone needs to travel outside of their country or culture at least once in their lifetime. Oh we have youtube now. Thanks

  • @kenishaopara6567
    @kenishaopara6567 4 года назад +30

    Hello
    I think some people are taking this video in a negative fashion. I don’t think that may be the case. She’s giving an honest opinion, from her point of view. I wouldn’t want anyone to be making a video and lying about her experience. Side note: if I may ask... Can you share more places you enjoy (restaurants, scenery, etc)?

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +10

      Yay, somebody understands me! I’ve been trying to live in the moment and also not drop the baby so I don’t vlog when I go out but I can probably do a blog post with my favorite restaurants and things to do in Nairobi

    • @loribylori1752
      @loribylori1752 4 года назад +3

      Yes please talk about the food! I’m curious to know because from my personal experience in Kenya, I unfortunately got tired of it quickly

    • @loribylori1752
      @loribylori1752 4 года назад

      M M as you say that I guess you’re right. I loved the food when I was in the coastal areas but it was only for a short time.

  • @Abebo21
    @Abebo21 4 года назад +44

    I honestly didn’t hear what she was talking about coz my eyes n everything was fixed on her glass clear skin,like that glow is crazy❤️❤️❤️

    • @wereskikate5259
      @wereskikate5259 4 года назад

      Me too.like i want that skin!!!

    • @julietmoraa5106
      @julietmoraa5106 4 года назад +1

      First thing I noticed when I clicked was her skin 😍

  • @kipusa1980
    @kipusa1980 4 года назад +22

    Regarding the language. This happens every where. I live in Berlin gyms are in Deutsche, Lagos gyms speak in pygn...imagine how cool it would be to go back to New York with some Swahili. With a change of mindset it becomes something positive.

  • @LinaplusMimi
    @LinaplusMimi 4 года назад +88

    Eishhh wakenya... she's not coming from a bad place, at all. Why are we taking it personally? "America this" because she's new to a WHOLE different culture, alaaaa. Reraxxx... Same way, if you went to the US and made a video about your views on it. I've lived there and I'm sure if I made an update video, people would tell me to return to my country haha. It's honest. Thanks for being candid- I'm really glad you made a 6month update.

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +11

      😂😂 at rerax that drained me

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +16

      Also the little Swahili I know, I’m proud of myself for knowing what wakenya means!

    • @Taylordessalines
      @Taylordessalines 3 года назад

      I agree. She’s sweet.

  • @Jacquesam
    @Jacquesam 4 года назад +5

    Ave lived in NYC and now in Toronto, also lived in London UK too. I also lived in Nairobi in Karen. I lived and worked with white people in one of the UN agencies in Kenya they learned to speak swahili some really engaged with locals and learned the way of living. We should not compare cultures every culture has its own way of living. I learned swahili in Nairobi in six months and have Kenyan friends here in Canada and speak swahili to them and eat ugali and Choma. Hopefully I will visit Nairobi again but it's a good place. Once you get over the comparison and accept the new way of life you will love it.

  • @latishawakenya5962
    @latishawakenya5962 4 года назад +43

    I like you just aired your honest opnion on your experience in a balanced way. However as an expat myself in Swiss from Kenya I think your going through that nasty adjustment state and its not expected to be easy. But things will get better and you will get used to things as well, with time. Also mindset plays a big role. E.g cost of living in Ke in lower than US like you never let us forget, so why would you expect be paid like US in KE!! About the language, I get you. Story of my life. Solution; learning it. Intergrate intergrate intergrate because you maybe an America and Nigerian but you have a Kenyan husband who loves Kenya apparently and your son is also Kenyan! Intergrate. Meanwhile, a day at a time. 🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝

    • @mme_peace5535
      @mme_peace5535 4 года назад +2

      @Latisha Wakenya, Intelligently put! Integrate and have the right attitude towards the cultural differences, at the end of the day, Kenya is not the US, PeriodT!
      On a lighter note, if in Lagos, the nigerians barely address a congregation in english, often pidgin english, and its frustrating, I can assure you.

    • @a.muchemi4360
      @a.muchemi4360 4 года назад +2

      Thanks tell her i was in Nigeria is more messy than Nairobi , let her stop this comparison

  • @drvundi
    @drvundi 4 года назад +16

    Kenyan RUclipsr here... loved the video and the authenticity. Don't be thrown off, the Kenyan RUclips space is hard to penetrate even for me who is Kenyan! But stay focused on your actual fans and keep doing you!

    • @drvundi
      @drvundi 4 года назад +1

      I meant influencer space...

  • @honeyespresso
    @honeyespresso 4 года назад +4

    My stepmom is from South Africa, and she really opened our eyes telling us about how in so many places in the world, hired help is the norm. She is still so stunned at how American women are able to work, cook, clean, take care of children, etc. It has really taught me to have more grace with myself and to take a step back and say, wow, it is a lot on the average American woman who can’t afford a “helper” and a nanny. It’s very cool that you are experiencing this first hand and I totally understand why you feel uncomfortable talking about it. Thanks for sharing! Really enjoy your authentic content.

    • @Ijusthavequestions
      @Ijusthavequestions 4 года назад

      honeyespresso having hired help is not necessarily about affordability or having less work but more of a cultural thing. Day cares are not very popular in places like Kenya so that's why people hire help even in slums where people are not rich especially if there are kids in the picture. The dynamics are different and it's not really like comparing apple to apples but rather apples to oranges.

    • @honeyespresso
      @honeyespresso 4 года назад

      swan swan yes, I understand completely. In America, hired help is about affordability but elsewhere it isn’t, like you said. So that’s why I made the comment about affordability as far as America. Another part that is inherent in my post is that many American women feel pressure to do it all-to kill it at work, to cook every evening, to keep the house impeccably clean, etc-and to do it all at a high level. And for myself, when I learned through dialogue with my stepmom about her ability to focus on her corporate job and spend time with her children and not have to worry about cooking and cleaning, etc, (and to pay for the help at a significantly lower cost than it would be in the US) it showed me that not every mother has the same experience and the same type of pressure as a working mother. So it was validation for me like, yes this is a really hard task and in a sense work to keep that pressure off of me to be perfect. So the post is very much a personal connection to the topic, not a comparison/analysis of the topic itself.

    • @Ijusthavequestions
      @Ijusthavequestions 4 года назад

      honeyespresso gotcha!

  • @chebbychebby6646
    @chebbychebby6646 4 года назад +58

    Who else is looking for the shade comments people are talking about 😂😂😂

    • @lavb7822
      @lavb7822 3 года назад

      Me, so that I can like them all 😂😂

  • @jiranika
    @jiranika 4 года назад +22

    Not being punctual is rude not cultural...

    • @britjj5126
      @britjj5126 4 года назад +2

      I think it is both. It’s unfortunately a deeply ingrained cultural habit that is rude.

    • @evedansdaughter
      @evedansdaughter 4 года назад

      Periodt

    • @jiranika
      @jiranika 4 года назад +1

      @1lastsht the very fact that we don't respect time means that we don't appreciate its value or those who put a high value on it. That's rude ball park figures or not.

    • @dt1wach206
      @dt1wach206 4 года назад

      Rude to who???.....

  • @murugimunyi2734
    @murugimunyi2734 4 года назад +31

    Hey Ijeoma! I’ve really enjoyed this video. Your views especially on the influencer market in kenya are very interesting and being in it, I can totally see where you coming from. Your forthrightness is REFRESHING! Kenyans can you guys just relax and let her be. If you don’t like what she’s saying, you can also just not watch or not follow.

    • @Wanyiha-G.1
      @Wanyiha-G.1 4 года назад +2

      I'm so glad to see your comment, I was so sure you'd agree with her seeing as you are no-nonsense too(I find😊)
      Hope you two get together for whatever.

  • @ZeinabAidid
    @ZeinabAidid 4 года назад +21

    I’m a Toronto girl that’s been living in Nairobi for almost two years and I FEEL YOU on all of this. My husband is a Kenyan which has helped but the adjustment has been crazy. I’m going to go follow you on IG!

  • @lindawatiti6853
    @lindawatiti6853 4 года назад +57

    "They arrive at 6pm and in their head they are on time?" this is too funny.

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +2

      😂😂

    • @dt1wach206
      @dt1wach206 4 года назад

      In america they are paid by the hour??so have to be on time...i know i live in boston.......people in usa have to be on time otherwise you got three strikes and you out??? They give you that 5 minute leeway😂😂😂?? .......

  • @Sarakassy
    @Sarakassy 3 года назад +2

    I am still waiting to hear someone who moves back to Kenya and start real life changing work..like farming and local industries.

  • @khalilbashir7141
    @khalilbashir7141 4 года назад +9

    I get the impression that the husband wants to remain in Kenya and not go back to the US, while on the flip side she's got more of a design to go back to the US at some point.

  • @gsunsetave
    @gsunsetave 4 года назад +5

    I undertand how you feel about the rate for paid labor, I'm originally from Jamaica and I was scandalized when I found out what my grandmother was paying her housekeeper. When I spent the summer in Jamaica last year I was compelled to pay my grandmother's housekeeper extra on the side because I felt guilty that she was doing so much work for such a low price, especially when I knew what I would have paid for her services back in NJ.

  • @mariancounsellor
    @mariancounsellor 3 года назад +2

    I think when people are married to someone who’s from the country they relocate to, or people have family in that country, it’s a different story from someone who moves alone or moves to a country with no connections. It’s always interesting to hear different perspectives though and hear about the challenges as well as the positives.

  • @carolineobonyo5699
    @carolineobonyo5699 4 года назад +34

    Be proud to be African. It's your roots.

    • @zazaland
      @zazaland 4 года назад +1

      she is a fool

    • @carolineobonyo5699
      @carolineobonyo5699 4 года назад +3

      @Kate GIbs just stay in America, we don't want you in Africa.

    • @keithbannister9271
      @keithbannister9271 4 года назад

      Mungu akubariki from America

    • @kingpablo2103
      @kingpablo2103 3 года назад

      @Kate GIbs she's an African in America not a BLK american.

  • @gloriamulwa5317
    @gloriamulwa5317 4 года назад +9

    Look at the pay you expect as an influencer through the same lense as what you pay your nanny/hired help..... especially when it comes to Kenyan companies.

  • @nairobikenya_
    @nairobikenya_ 4 года назад +47

    Kenyans love anything western and end up over paying. I've seen influencers talk about makeup and when they mentioned the prices i almost fell off my sit. Like why are you paying over $30 for maybelline 🤔

    • @artiarte9833
      @artiarte9833 4 года назад

      Maybelline is 10-15 (1kshs 1000)dollars & they are always having sales on Jumia www.jumia.co.ke/maybelline-new-york/

    • @akinyicherry
      @akinyicherry 4 года назад +1

      The most I've seen Maybelline being sold is 20$...but all in all,as it is anywhere,willing buyer..willing seller

    • @kenyannewyorker6371
      @kenyannewyorker6371 4 года назад

      🤣😂🤣🤣

    • @nairobikenya_
      @nairobikenya_ 4 года назад

      @@itsbasicbeth6737 and? Whats your point?

    • @nairobikenya_
      @nairobikenya_ 4 года назад

      @@artiarte9833 jumia came to save people, before jumia people have wasted $

  • @kama6196
    @kama6196 4 года назад +9

    Shade or no shade, everything she said is true about Kenya. Do people want her to lie and make it seem like it is perfect place to live.

    • @rubyomolo2818
      @rubyomolo2818 4 года назад +1

      Except the part where she said driving in New York is like driving in town hapa Nairobi. Pale Afya Centre onwards hapana😂

    • @bellaolum9768
      @bellaolum9768 4 года назад +5

      Nowhere is perfect, every country has its ills and goods 😋

    • @MoniqueSinha
      @MoniqueSinha 4 года назад +1

      i agree

    • @lavb7822
      @lavb7822 3 года назад

      So it's true that we don't have local brands of peanut butter? Or that new mothers can't find proper baby clothes in Kenya? Stop sucking up.

    • @kama6196
      @kama6196 3 года назад

      @@lavb7822 She said breast pumps and other imported stuff are super expensive in Kenya, which they are.

  • @liyah2k
    @liyah2k 3 года назад +1

    I’m moving to Nairobi, Kenya once the coronavirus is over. I can’t wait! I’m originally from Somalia but I was born in America. This video was amazing. I liked it

  • @shamekaphd
    @shamekaphd 4 года назад +14

    Thanks for your transparency. You’re definitely an inspiration. I’m a 2nd year PhD student, and I’m trying to work on my blog. Btw, the skin is popping, and the glow is real.

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +2

      Thank you!

    • @teresalopes5460
      @teresalopes5460 4 года назад +1

      Can you help me by having a conversation with me??? I am starting my PhD and I am afraid of the fact that I will spend more 4 years studying and not working (making money)

    • @shamekaphd
      @shamekaphd 4 года назад

      teresa lopes sure, you can email me at shamekafnp@gmail.com

    • @BNS_CyberLab
      @BNS_CyberLab 3 года назад

      teresa lopes hello dear

  • @seneiyacocoa2936
    @seneiyacocoa2936 4 года назад +4

    Just do you. Adjust where you can, adhere to your ways where you can. Be authentic!
    Give the criticism when you feel you must! 🤗🤗

  • @shelmithmuliro770
    @shelmithmuliro770 4 года назад +11

    May your 2years move fast so that you can go on and move to your happy place 🙌🏽

  • @not-even-german4892
    @not-even-german4892 4 года назад +2

    Always give your help more money, its human. When I'm 3 weeks in Kenya or Namibia I give her money for 5 months she's always extremely thankful.

  • @africaine4889
    @africaine4889 4 года назад +24

    Africans are not in time everywhere. Even in Nigerian. You have Nigerians vloggers that were living in the west and returned in Nigeria and foreign vloggers saying the same thing you are saying in the video. Africans in general have this time problem. But I am with you, I really have a problem with that because I am always on time but not others lol
    I have noticed west africana, like Nigerians usually take people in their family as househelps. In central, east and southern African countries there is no way we are talking someone from the family to work as a househelp, it is kind of disrespectful, like looking down on that family member.

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +4

      That’s true we like bringing extended family members to help. In some ways it’s better but also can be stressful bc when folks mess up it’s not as easy to let them go

  • @susan-ku5py
    @susan-ku5py 4 года назад +4

    Lol I’m originally from Kenya but I moved to the US when I was 4. Whenever I go back to Kenya, my cousins make sure I come with Skippy Peanut Butter cuz it’s expensive there while in the US it’s like $3-4.

    • @susan-ku5py
      @susan-ku5py 4 года назад

      Irenes Concierge I 100% agree but it seems like the Kenyan government is completely incapable of doing so. I guess it’s on the shoulders of Kenyan business owners and entrepreneurs to build those industries.

  • @phylliskariuki8988
    @phylliskariuki8988 4 года назад +8

    I love this lady and her content. However some things she said came off badly, like "its not worth my time "That said, to each their own. Let's live and let live. 💝

  • @MI84MI
    @MI84MI 4 года назад +2

    Am Kenyan and living abroad. It's okay share whatever you want my dear. It's hard even when I go back and visit looking for for photographers and other things. Post more on restaurants that you like, holiday places that you like and that are baby friendly.

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +1

      Gotcha! I vlogged my babymoon in Watamu and loved it there!

  • @leahnjoki6662
    @leahnjoki6662 4 года назад +2

    It takes a while to adjust and gel into the system of a foreign country. With no active social life, and no idea of how things run, it can be a bit overwhelming. As a Kenyan who recently moved to Australia, I know exactly where she's coming from.

  • @jemportal4166
    @jemportal4166 4 года назад +1

    Yes! Public Health should totally be mandatory for all educational levels!

  • @maryannenjeri4551
    @maryannenjeri4551 4 года назад +21

    Actually quite impressed you know quite alot about Nairobi already especially when you mentioned Biashara Street 😂

  • @murdoch1717
    @murdoch1717 3 года назад +1

    So how much is rent out there in Nairobi? Food for a month? Internet and phone?

  • @kwambydee187
    @kwambydee187 4 года назад +5

    I am Kenyan living in Europe and I enjoy watching your videos especially your education journey.I am inspired a lot.
    However,you should consider learning a few(street wise) phrases for exchange with Mama mboga(grocery lady) next time in the neighborhood.

  • @koimucai
    @koimucai 4 года назад +2

    I salute you girl for driving around Nairobi. Matatu drivers make it hectic to drive in town to many of us. Ignore the haters, you r Kenyan by marriage those treating you that way at the gym would still switch to their mother tongue at a Kenyan from a different community. Focus on the 90% who are great and friendly. Congratulations for acquiring a PHD while still young. Enjoy Ur stay and Kudos!

  • @muriithiwangechi3960
    @muriithiwangechi3960 4 года назад +4

    U know it's so sad that you have to compare the two cities,you don't Know the sacrifices the people of Kenya have made for Nairobi to be where it is today🙆🏾‍♀️

    • @phanicen.5395
      @phanicen.5395 4 года назад

      There is no harm in that.....you too you have no idea where NY was be4 now

  • @GlobalMindsetRealism
    @GlobalMindsetRealism Год назад

    I ticked on this video to actually hear the amounts on cost of living, food. 😮

  • @wamaithak
    @wamaithak 4 года назад +1

    Its really not a bad thing that exported products are taxed more heavily- this helps to protect our local industry and grow our economy. I know you were joking but, of everything wrong in Nairobi, import duty taxes is the least of our issues.

  • @Empowerisingresilience
    @Empowerisingresilience 4 года назад +5

    I totally love your personality. I am so proud of you! Keep inspiring and empowering African women!!

  • @fashionovadivas8452
    @fashionovadivas8452 4 года назад +1

    This is so inspiring.am a kenyan living in Canada and am looking forward to relocate back to Kenya and this is so helpful.kenya is beautiful

  • @marieyvonne3605
    @marieyvonne3605 4 года назад +2

    Kiswahili is not exactly easy but I'm sure you can learn it. The basics are easy,then you can learn gym Swahili, like saying your tired, need a break. The lady who helps you can teach you a few words a day. Tell her to speak to you in Swahili once every day for a few minutes then translate am sure you will learn.

  • @chimakalu41
    @chimakalu41 4 года назад +1

    5:21 The high import taxes will discourage foreign goods so It encourages the production and purchase of local goods and helps the local economy.

  • @deidreej
    @deidreej 4 года назад +2

    Hey girl, your video popped up on my feed, I've seen pictures of you before but this is my first time watching your video. I was reading the comments and I personally didn't find this video negative. I appreciate your view as you see it. Enjoy this new journey in your life. Congrats on your baby. New subbie here ❤️❤️❤️

  • @dantatadangote4700
    @dantatadangote4700 4 года назад +1

    The high VAT- Value Added Tax on imported goods is mechanism by the government to protect local businesses.

  • @daffiezdaffs3570
    @daffiezdaffs3570 4 года назад +6

    Aaah no. Who's been mean to my Ijeoma. My KlassyKinks. No. Love from South Africa. You are amazing. Don't change, I think the thing is African culture can be very imposing in a way. I want to hug you now.

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +2

      Haha you threw it back to klassykinks, you’re a real one!

  • @lilliankaranja3789
    @lilliankaranja3789 4 года назад

    Having a baby alone rocked my whole world. In your case, you're adding to that, COVID adjustments, livelihood changes, changes in your social life, different culture in a different continent..... major life changes all at once.
    I think this is a vlog about a resilient soul. Your main goal should be to be kind to yourself, ignore half the comments, and just be patient with your journey. This is alot of adjusting converging in 1 season.

  • @theforestscholar
    @theforestscholar 4 года назад +1

    It's not easy going somewhere new and understanding the new culture and ways of living and feeling like a fish out of water and can't help comparing it back to where you're from which was more familiar. You are open, you are brave and most of all, it is amazing that you know your value and understand when it's important for you to say no. Take everything as it comes, it's not about perfection but learning. One might not know EVERYTHING about being Kenyan and what the cultural norms are or what to do. Growth is a day at a time, a step at a time, we learn better, we do better. Thank you for being open, sharing, you're awesome. Much love!

  • @Sandra.-.
    @Sandra.-. 4 года назад +3

    I think you did well answering the questions asked. Moving to a new place is a cultural shock for everyone whether moving to the US from kenya, kenya to US, kenya to Uganda or wherever. Things will shock you and it takes some getting used to but glad you're doing well. I think above all, the ability to achieve good mental health, financial stability and a feeling like you belong is what helps determines people's ability to settle into new territories. Good listening to your story

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +1

      Definitely a cultural shock in some ways but I’m getting the hang of it!

    • @Sandra.-.
      @Sandra.-. 4 года назад

      @@IjeomaKolaYT plus I agree with the having standards things with your work. We work so hard and spend way more time, money and energy in school not to have any. Do what works for you.

  • @zoehaakmat2032
    @zoehaakmat2032 4 года назад +6

    To all who, either think she is shading or on her high horse,you most likely never moved to another country. She is 6 months in and had a baby!! Cut her some slack.
    Even if it was Canada! Like chill out!

  • @christabel5148
    @christabel5148 4 года назад +14

    I think instead of creating sponsored posts, it would be good to explore Kenyan products (hair, beauty, foods) that you like and talk about them. It would feed your Kenyan audience without the obligation of sponsorship. I think they expect something from you and even though your channel is about what you like, you can give them bits without compromising.
    Lowkey, I think you're not exploring enough (prolly cos of the baby) but I think you'll get a hang of it as he grows older.

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +36

      That’s an idea. I’ve started buying some clothes made in Kenya as part of my buy black initiative! Probably not going to do anything hair related because i don’t do my hair often and i came with a TON of hair products. But the baby has nothing to do with whether or not I’m exploring, I actually go out a lot, with and without him! I think people forget that I shipped an entire container worth of things and don’t need beauty products, hair products, etc for a long time, so I’m not motivated to investigate those kinds of Kenyan products.
      Lastly, I didn’t touch on this in the video, but I think there is definitely an expectation that I have to create content to appeal to a Kenyan audience now that I’m here, which is an idea I reject. I don’t feel obligated to create content just simply because people expect it from me - I think if you live your life doing things to please and satisfy other people, you’re not living a full life.

    • @bellaolum9515
      @bellaolum9515 4 года назад +3

      @@IjeomaKolaYT Do what makes you happy

  • @safari2545
    @safari2545 4 года назад +3

    The review is not that bad, it is actually quite honest. I expected worse especially after you issued a 'trigger' warning in the beginning.

  • @Ijusthavequestions
    @Ijusthavequestions 4 года назад +4

    New here! This popped up in my youtube feed somehow and I get what u saying 1000%. The first year, hey the first even 3- 5 years of living in a new country (depends on the person but most people) is all about comparing what you are used to to what you are currently experiencing and even sticking to what u know and holding on to the products you brought with you because that's what you are used to and then buying more of them when they run out until you find out what works for you locally. Its only human but also, It can come across as whinny (which is all part of the adjustment process). When I look back now, having lived in 2 different countries for over 5 years each, that was the process of adjustment for me as well and I'm sure this is how I sounded like (which is/was not intentional) among some of the locals or well and fully adjusted visitors. With the first country I lived in I compared( i'm sure I sounded like I was complaining/whinning) about food (now some of my favorite meals on the planet) and I'm sure whenever I go back to my home country I'll do the same thing and whine about my own country in comparison to where I'm currently residing for almost 10 years now because it's been so long. So now I just learn(ed) to go with flow and tell my self "sis it's going to be a whole new shebang" and now I thoroughly laugh at myself when I look back on the things that "bothered" me in the respective countries and how they've now become second nature. Off course, somethings still remain bothersome no matter how long you live anywhere if they are just down right ridiculous dangerous or life threatening. I'm sure with time you'll adjust and immerse yourself more organically and you might even find yourself boarding a matatu or nduthi and loving it like I found myself purposely boarding trotro, buying road side kenke, fufu, fried rice and the almighty wakye from the wakye boutique with tons of shito then washing it down with funice and sachet water hahaha. Good memories. My mouth is watering as I'm writing this. Chai! Much love mama Africa. Enjoy your time in Kenya and if you can and are willing to, go out there and immerse yourself whenever you feel you are ready to do it. You won't regret it!

  • @WendyDora
    @WendyDora 4 года назад +1

    Everything you experienced we did too. My parents jobs moved us around a ton as kids and such a culture shock especially hired labour, even though we are kenyan and are considered expats, we had just lived in Europe for such a long time. Everytime I come to nairobi I'm always comparing London prices.

  • @msbell221982
    @msbell221982 4 года назад +5

    It’s refreshing to hear your stories about moving abroad. My fiancé is from Senegal and he wants to move back soon. Guess I should learn the language first. I’ve been to Senegal 🇸🇳 before and although most do know French, they speak Wolof. Hardly anyone speaks English unless you’re in downtown Dakar. Unfortunately I took Espanol in high school and college.

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +1

      If you know French you can probably get around!

    • @AfriPrincess411
      @AfriPrincess411 4 года назад

      @@IjeomaKolaYT Wolof is the main language

    • @Happy-B-W
      @Happy-B-W 4 года назад

      Melissa Bell although wolof is the main language, most people speak French in Senegal.

    • @AfriPrincess411
      @AfriPrincess411 4 года назад +1

      @@Happy-B-W better she learn Wolof

    • @sirabalde9322
      @sirabalde9322 4 года назад

      Hello, I'm from Senegal and moved back a year ago. Happy to help you navigate if you do come here 🙂. Just reach out to me on RUclips if you are interested ans Ill give you my contact info.

  • @leahkuria1165
    @leahkuria1165 4 года назад

    Amazing.Just take it easy it's not an easy transition .I just moved to Milan,Italy from Kenya and it's been 6 months .It's been a learning experience all the way but I embrace every day.BE YOU!!!PERIOD!!people have too much expectation at times so yeah

  • @ALPHAROYCE
    @ALPHAROYCE 4 года назад +1

    i'm south african. hired help is also a norm in my country. i think it may be normal in many african countries.

  • @Bishopmoni
    @Bishopmoni 2 года назад

    Can you tell me how you were able to stay there for so long??? Did you have a work visa

  • @abdihassan2966
    @abdihassan2966 4 года назад

    Looking you talking is mesmerizing. Highly educated and smart not mentioning a gigantic African Saartjie Baartman Lips. You truly symbolize blackness to the core. Keep up the good job. You have won me as a follower.

    • @jazzampa
      @jazzampa 3 года назад +2

      Quit simping

  • @leonjacobs3426
    @leonjacobs3426 4 года назад

    The minimum wage is 150 a month. The houses in the slum are 20usd a month. So the maid can spend 50 on rent 20 utilities and the rest on food transport etc.

    • @tekkerzgaming8000
      @tekkerzgaming8000 3 года назад +2

      150? oliskia wapi

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  3 года назад +1

      I see. Well to each their own in terms of what they're willing and able to pay

  • @NyarRailakende
    @NyarRailakende 4 года назад

    Hey babes, my husband and i are moving to kenya in september from Iceland Reykjavik, thanks for all your vlogs am moving home after 26 years abroad so all info are welcome...thank you link up when on ground we should start an expats group hopefully i meet you guys..

  • @annicks7385
    @annicks7385 4 года назад +3

    On the topic about the Kenyan brands .... we have to remember - a small company who is building from the ground up can not afford a huge budget for marketing and samples and coupons such as a huge American brand such as proctor and gamble . I am a Caribbean woman living in America and I want to see more black owned businesses promoted . It’s more than just the instant gratification but more so a long term mission to empower black business. Amazon is the devil . Support and promote black business . You can cut down the content to fit the budget for that business . Doesn’t have to be 10 videos , maybe 3 . Come on sis , do it for the black race ! Push our products and our black businesses ! Immersive yourself . If you want to discuss racism , and disparity you must see that economically we face many challenges and our money constantly revolves in the white business. So your view is contradictory .

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +2

      I'm actually currently doing a buy black project this year where I only buy clothing from black owned businesses, so I'm doing my part!

    • @LolaBugzy85
      @LolaBugzy85 4 года назад +2

      Well said my Caribbean sister. Black people are the only people who dnt promote their own. We are quick to buy Gucci, Chanel etc yet from the get go white people have never had black people in mind when designing the bags or coming up with whatever products they come up with etc. Look at make up for the longest time there has been no make up that caters for our skin colour and for the longest time they didn't care cs honestly they never had us in mind. They made this things for their people. White people and Asians spend money on businesses owned by their own. I have particularily noted that with Jews.
      We have a long way to go as
      black people but where we can lets promote our brands whether Nigerian, Kenyan, Congolese, Ghanaian, Caribbean, African American etc. Much love

    • @annicks7385
      @annicks7385 4 года назад

      Ijeoma Kola please share with us ! ❤️ thank you

    • @annicks7385
      @annicks7385 4 года назад

      M- K we definitely have to circulate our money in black business first before we spend outside . Grow and strengthen our community .

  • @Pieman12748
    @Pieman12748 4 года назад +1

    You have some legit points. I don't understand why the Kenyan government heftily taxes items which we don't manufacture locally!

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +1

      It's unfair! But I'm temporarily pausing my grievances with the government because I'm happy with what they've been doing regarding COVID

    • @ericmunene8486
      @ericmunene8486 4 года назад

      To protect the local companies

  • @zaire-aniyarobinson2928
    @zaire-aniyarobinson2928 4 года назад

    where are you getting shea moisture for 2 for $8 shea mositure is like $20 in DC

  • @dylankanyubi3700
    @dylankanyubi3700 Год назад

    Karibu sana Kenya. Mungu akubariki sana nchini Kenya.

  • @philomath_25
    @philomath_25 3 года назад

    but I guess peanut itself is cheaper??? make your own butter... since you have the raw materials, make them yourself ...it make you feel soo proud.

  • @normantshokotshela5290
    @normantshokotshela5290 4 года назад +2

    When it comes to paying your helper, I think you need to be more compassionate as you are uplifting our own people.
    Pay her more.
    I'm a South African and had a helper from Zimbabwe whom I paid more than average.
    We need to help our own.

  • @bellaolum9515
    @bellaolum9515 4 года назад +1

    If you are going for an important meeting or other function, you must give allowance for traffic. I am never late for anything because I plan my route well and also take into account the possibility of traffic jams. Also for things like peanut butter, ghee, honey we have people who make local organic ones so I would avoid imported ones coz of too many additives (support the local/cottage industries). For domestic staff there is a minimum government wage which is around Sh.8,500 per month ($85), some people pay less but most of us pay way more than that! (Ps: nothing negative about this video - just expressing your opinion and experience) :-)

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +1

      I actually looked up the minimum wage bc I wanted to be fair. And yes we pay much more than that, and for part time work! I’ve found a local peanut butter maker and bought some honey from Arabuko forest so slowly getting my bearings on local makers

  • @JustDavidMinistries
    @JustDavidMinistries 3 года назад +1

    Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us, Sis

  • @sonderexpeditions
    @sonderexpeditions 3 года назад +1

    I definitely met you at a hair event in NYC 5+ years ago.

  • @whisperywind8768
    @whisperywind8768 4 года назад +4

    Girl I live in Nigeria and it is 100 times worse than Kenyan time. Lol. But doesn’t make it excusable.

  • @nancyn5778
    @nancyn5778 4 года назад

    Am kenyan and I love you already, am planning on moving back home soon and I admire your life. I won’t even hire no one to live with me

  • @m.n.3159
    @m.n.3159 4 года назад +3

    Your honesty was refreshing! Please consider filming a reaction video for the crazy messages you have been getting, let's all be entertained 😁

  • @missflavia3076
    @missflavia3076 4 года назад +5

    Yes Shea moisture products!! I gave up, I felt like I'm buying a whole country

  • @ololadef6636
    @ololadef6636 4 года назад +2

    The end of the video had smiling. Thanks for always sharing your perspective and being your authentic self.

  • @robertlark6717
    @robertlark6717 3 года назад

    Please don’t beat around the bush and give us specifics, I’d like to know exact prices for a nanny/chef/cleaner...

  • @carolinenjoroge9351
    @carolinenjoroge9351 4 года назад +5

    Yeah you can't talk about a place you really don't know, same goes about language, people can't change language because of you, that's as impossible as people asking you to talk about Kenya. Do the work you're comfortable with doing.

  • @denisedixon-george3866
    @denisedixon-george3866 4 года назад +2

    CP time is universal (Africa, the Caribbean, African Americans etc.) my dear 🤷🏾‍♀️

  • @jasminehollinquest5861
    @jasminehollinquest5861 3 года назад

    What's the price for a acre of land out there can you find out for me thanks

  • @TheHdawson
    @TheHdawson 4 года назад

    Preparing for my first trip to Nairobi, Kenya. I plan to stay in Airbnb's and not travel or lodge with a tour group. Please help me with choosing a "safe area" in Nairobi to reside and Mombasa. My first week, I will stay in Nairobi , then a train ride to Mombasa for a second week. Any suggestions? I have no contacts in Kenya. Any suggestions you offer will be greatly appreciated.

  • @lineosekete3071
    @lineosekete3071 4 года назад +8

    I love you.
    Was visiting Nairobi in January and yes they'll totally talk to you in Swahili until they realize you don't know what they're saying.
    Such a cool place.

    • @writingac8956
      @writingac8956 4 года назад +3

      I'm the same would happen in any black country anywhere (even the Carribean ones) as English is not an African language.

    • @LolaBugzy85
      @LolaBugzy85 4 года назад +1

      That kind of stuff happens everywhere. I have been to SA and the moment I am at airport some people will be talking to you in local languages until they realise you are a foreigner or makwerekwere as they call foreigners. It happens even locally as a Kikuyu if I go to Kitui county (predominantly Kamba community) or Kisumu (predominantly Luo community) most locals will first talk to you in their local language.

    • @bellaolum9768
      @bellaolum9768 4 года назад +1

      People will speak to you in their local language since they assume you understand

  • @sarahjustice526
    @sarahjustice526 4 года назад +7

    Girl you cannot compare life in Kenya and USA.

  • @MoniqueFamilyLifestylevlogs
    @MoniqueFamilyLifestylevlogs 4 года назад +6

    🤣😂🤣😂😂Running around Biashara Street looking for Baby Stuff 😂🤣😂that got me .

  • @77lvg
    @77lvg 4 года назад +2

    Don't worry dear. We Kenyan are some of the biggest haters. There are some wonderful people in our country but there are some real bafoons who just dont get it. Your blogs are great and you'll eventually catch up on the Swa...its normal to have a learning curve. Great cotent!!

  • @zomabrita1557
    @zomabrita1557 Год назад +1

    Can one survive in Kenya Nairobi with a monthly salary of $1000?

    • @bumblebee4280
      @bumblebee4280 7 месяцев назад

      Yes. And if they're smart they'll even save $200 every month.
      Arrange to buy a car so you can live in the non-expat areas and not have to worry about moving around. You don't have to live next to a famous mall, they're no food deserts in Nairobi and it's outskirts. You'll always find a local supermarket and a butchery wherever you live. Also there'll be street vendors selling fruits and vegetables if you don't find those in the supermarket.

  • @fionalitondo9929
    @fionalitondo9929 4 года назад +19

    Hi,I’m curious would you have preferred a life in Nigeria as u have roots there?

    • @IjeomaKolaYT
      @IjeomaKolaYT  4 года назад +7

      I think it might be cool to live in Nigeria at some point - Lagos is a bit stressful though (the nonstop hustle, traffic, population density) so I think right now where we are in life Nairobi is the best African city for us

  • @Africanmama-u5q
    @Africanmama-u5q 4 года назад +8

    No justification for paying cheap if that's the culture. Pay them well like the US

    • @africanglobalnomad
      @africanglobalnomad 4 года назад

      And how do you justify labor being cheaper outside Nairobi?

  • @MzMinnesnowtapop1
    @MzMinnesnowtapop1 4 года назад +1

    Girlllllll....i love.you cause we are americanized af....but lets unchain our minds together. 🙄🙄😂 dont forget from wence you come ❤👍 i appreciate you greatly for your vulnerability. We getting back to basics. Check urself

  • @jenniferwilson6208
    @jenniferwilson6208 4 года назад

    Give your Helper a good bonus every six months that will be nice

  • @blessedmweru2486
    @blessedmweru2486 4 года назад

    I like your position Ijeoma - sell products that you know and do what makes you happy and pays you well for the lifestyle you wish to live.