This archive report was first published on 18 December 2021.
December 18, 2021, marked a significant milestone for Margaret Ong'ayo, a 50-year-old domestic worker from Kenya. Her inspiring story is a testament to the power of hard work, grit, and ambition.
After her marriage failed, Margaret settled in the city at 17 years old and had her firstborn. Like many Kenyans, she arrived in the city seeking a better life and a job to sustain herself and her child.
With the help of relatives, Margaret secured a job as a house help, a role she now takes pride in and considers a career. She worked in different homes before an agency enrolled her in a short course, which transformed her into a professional domestic worker.
However, it was her experience working with American and European employers that changed her life. They treated her with kindness, consideration, and provided decent pay. Margaret credits them with helping her grow professionally and personally, treating her like an employee in an office.
Her employers not only encouraged her to invest but also offered easy loans, enabling her to purchase a two-bedroom house in Nairobi and a piece of land in Kitale. She now owns several plots in different locations, including one she bought for Ksh170,000 and is selling for Ksh600,000.
When asked about her secret to success, Margaret attributed it to respecting her employers and working hard. She also emphasized the importance of speaking the truth and being humble. Currently, she is saving to build rental properties, ensuring a secure retirement.
As Margaret concludes her inspiring story, she offers words of wisdom: 'In everything you do, work hard, be humble, and trust in God.'
