How Edith Kimani coped with the trials of early fame

Finding success in Kenya is often referred to as ‘kuomoka’. Journalist Edith Kimani is learning to embrace and not feel embarrassed about her achievements.

In a recent interview on the podcast ‘It’s Related, I Promise,’ the media personality discussed how, at just 19 years old, she found success and fame unexpectedly.

Her entry into the world of journalism began with a reality show. “An opportunity came to audition for a show called ‘The Presenter.’ I had just turned 19. I was initially just passing time. I had planned to study Law or International Relations with the intention of going to the UK,” she recalled.

This opportunity led to further roles, such as moderating the World Economic Forum. “I said yes because between the age of 19 and when I moved to DW at 27, I approached things with a childlike sense of wonder. However, the fear of facing challenges like job insecurity and reputation damage soon set in.”

The global stage was daunting for Kimani, as she lacked experience and was thrust into the limelight at a young age.

While some people supported her, others criticized her fame. “It felt like everything changed overnight. Going from being an unknown to suddenly everyone wanting to say, ‘Hi’ was overwhelming, especially as a teenager.

“My family experienced this change with me. I lost many friends but also had people around me just because of my status. It was a strange dynamic.”

Kimani admitted she felt a sense of shame about her success. “To counteract this, I became overly generous,” she said.

She struggled with the ‘kuomoka mapema’ (early success) feeling as it came with heavy financial responsibilities.

“I reached a point where I was so drained that I disliked the idea of ‘kuomoka mapema.’ I felt sad for the younger version of myself when I think back on it.”