Empower Yourself First, Kenyan Professional in Bahrain Advises Diaspora

Kenyan professionals are increasingly in demand in Bahrain, as they have an advantage over other foreign workers due to their excellent proficiency in both written and spoken English.

Bahrain's appeal as a destination for global talent has grown significantly as the nation works to diversify its economy beyond oil dependency, focusing on sectors such as tourism and financial technology. The country's relatively low operational costs have made it especially attractive to foreign investors. Among the successful expatriates in Bahrain is Daniel Kiendi, a Kenyan marketing professional whose journey exemplifies the opportunities available in this evolving market.

After completing his education at Statehouse Primary School in Nairobi and Kakamega High School, Kiendi pursued studies in Mass Communication, Filming, and Marketing at Talanta Institute, later obtaining a diploma from Daystar University. His career trajectory was significantly influenced by an encounter with a young street boy named Kevin from Narok, who had sought refuge in Nairobi. Kevin's life changed after meeting renowned Kenyan rapper King Kaka, whose mentorship programs have touched numerous young lives across East Africa.

The story gained prominence when prominent media personality Betty Kyallo featured Kevin in an interview. This experience prompted Kiendi to establish the Raising heARTs Foundation, an organization dedicated to rehabilitating street children in Kenya. At just 24 years old, Kiendi recognized a critical gap in support services for street children. While the government provided basic medical care, there was a notable absence of programs offering survival skills and meaningful employment opportunities.

In response, he launched Inua Production under the foundation's umbrella, focusing on teaching income generation through content creation, a particularly relevant skill during the COVID-19 pandemic. Kiendi's innovative online marketing strategies caught the attention of Developing Africa Limited, a real estate firm that hired him to market properties in Nairobi's upscale neighbourhoods. This opportunity ultimately led to his relocation to Bahrain in May 2024, facilitated by the company's international network. Currently based in Riffa Views, Kiendi works for iMining Technologies, a Canadian company specializing in cryptocurrency.

Here, his English fluency and strong work ethic have proven invaluable. His success challenges common perceptions about employment opportunities for Kenyans abroad, as he notes that many of his compatriots are surprised to find him working in a professional capacity rather than in security or maintenance roles. Kiendi maintains a strong commitment to supporting underprivileged communities in Kenya through the Raising heARTs Foundation, focusing on reintegrating street children into society and developing them into productive global citizens.

As a representative of Generation Z, Kiendi offers measured advice to fellow Kenyans in the diaspora, emphasizing the importance of personal financial stability before engaging in philanthropic endeavours. His philosophy aligns with the principle that one must first secure their own position before extending help to others.