Jacinta Mutonga: From Humble Beginnings to Inspiring Others in the US

US-based Jacinta Mutonga is happy to share her personal growth and her transition abroad.

Hailing from a small village in Kirinyaga County, Mutonga was born into a polygamous family with an alcoholic father. She says that her childhood was marked by chaos and anxiety. Nonetheless, she envisioned a future far removed from the turbulent environment she knew. After completing her studies at Meru Teachers College, Mutonga’s life took an unexpected turn. A chance encounter with an American missionary in Kenya paved the way for her sponsorship to the United States where she embarked on a new chapter.

Mutonga’s transition to the United States was facilitated by the generosity of a friend who offered her an opportunity to pursue higher education and also provided her with a familial support system. Overcoming the initial challenges of adapting to a new culture, she eventually found her footing working on campus and obtaining an associate degree before transferring to Portland State University. She later married and the couple ventured into the travel industry, establishing a thriving business that was severely impacted by the events of September 11th, 2001.

Undeterred, the couple seized the opportunity presented by the outsourcing trend and established a successful call centre enterprise. However, Mutonga’s relentless pursuit of success came at a cost, as she found herself grappling with burnout and an emotional breakdown. It was during this challenge that she confronted the reality of neglecting her own self-care. Through self-reflection, she soon grasped the importance of not projecting negativity onto her family.

She says that this marked the beginning of her personal transformation. Mutonga embarked on a journey of self-discovery, seeking guidance from coaches and immersing herself in personal growth practices. She made the courageous decision to disengage from social media which had fueled her tendency to compare herself to others. Today, Jacinta Mutonga stands as an inspiring figure, dedicated to empowering women and fostering self-love. Through her coaching programs, she guides individuals on a path of self-discovery, teaching them to prioritize their needs while maintaining healthy relationships.