This archive report was first published on 19 August 2019.
Media personalities often face immense pressure to maintain a perfect image, but for Jamila Mbugua, this pressure almost led her down a path of destruction.
Published on August 19, 2019, Jamila shared her story, highlighting the struggles of living in the limelight and the importance of taking control of one's life.
She recalled how strangers would claim to be her relatives, asking for money and other forms of assistance, and how she had to learn to say no and prioritize her own needs.
"Assumptions are destructive," Jamila warned. "And because at that early age you're still struggling with your identity and being liked and not looking like fame went through your head, you try to be nice. But woe unto you if you don't wake up to the fact that there are people who just don't get it. The only difference between you and them is that you are on TV, otherwise the struggles are the same, at times worse."
Jamila emphasized the importance of taking control of one's life and not getting sucked into the 'image thing', which can lead to addiction and other negative consequences.
"What matters to me is that I use the platform God gave me to bring hope... nothing else matters, money will come and go but if what you do is based on what you're getting back, then you haven't found your purpose yet and this will suck the juice out of your life," she said.
She also warned against the dangers of getting caught up in the 'madness' of fame, and encouraged young media personalities to prioritize their spiritual well-being and seek guidance from God.
"I wish all of them the very best but most of all I pray that we give back to God what He gave us so that He makes it pure, in order to accomplish His purpose alone," Jamila said.
