This archive report was first published on 28 December 2019.
December 28, 2019, marked a turning point in Joan Thatiah's life. She had just returned to Kenya after working in four different countries, and was determined to make a difference in her community.
Thatiah's journey began when she was forced to take a gap year due to financial constraints. Initially, she saw it as a punishment, but it ultimately sparked her interest in the lives of young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
She pursued a three-year diploma in design and building architecture, and went on to have a successful career in project management. However, eight years ago, she decided to return to Kenya to work with the youth.
Today, Thatiah is the driving force behind a organization that provides financial empowerment, legal aid, and civic education to young people from slums. She also mentors them as they start their own businesses.
Thatiah's day is filled with meetings with partners and social work on the ground. She is up at 6:30 am to get her 11-year-old son ready for school, and then spends the morning working on socio-economic initiatives.
As a night owl, Thatiah finds clarity in working between 10 pm and 2 am. She has come to accept her body's rhythm and no longer feels guilty about not following the traditional morning routine.
When she's not working, Thatiah enjoys catching up on current affairs and politics over a fine whiskey. She believes that politics affects every aspect of life, including the simple things like sanitary towels.
Looking to the future, Thatiah hopes to continue growing in her passion for youth development and arts and culture in Kenya. Perhaps one day, she'll even lead the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Heritage in the National Government of Kenya.
