This archive report was first published on 13 January 2020.
Rawbeena, a Kenyan artiste based in Finland, has spoken out about her past struggles with homelessness in a recent interview with Mpasho.
At just five years old, Rawbeena became an orphan, and with eight siblings to care for, her brothers sent her to live with a family in Nairobi. However, she eventually found herself without a job and became homeless, forced to rely on odd jobs and even academic writing gigs to make ends meet.
Rawbeena has spoken candidly about her experiences, saying, 'I was homeless back in the day while I was still struggling to find my footing. I would shower in a public toilet and sometimes I would be forced to wear my clothes kama hazijakauka.'
Despite these challenges, Rawbeena has persevered and is now grateful for the opportunities she has had in Finland. 'Life in Finland is God and I thank God,' she said. 'If I was still in Kenya I do not know where I would be. Music does not pay much in Kenya.'
Rawbeena's story is a testament to her strength and resilience, and she is now using her platform to raise awareness about the importance of supporting those in need. 'That is why I do not like seeing people struggle,' she said.
Below is the latest jam by Raw Beena: