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The Singaporean Who Moved to Kenya: A Journey of Curiosity and Connection

Writer's picture: Jeevi PillaiJeevi Pillai

In 2022, I took a bold step that would change my life forever. As a Singaporean, moving to Kenya wasn’t part of my life plan—or at least not one I could have envisioned. But life has a way of surprising you when you follow curiosity instead of fear.


Singapore
Singapore

Growing up in Singapore, I was taught to embrace structure, stability, and ambition. I became a Sport Psychologist and, later, the founder of AfrowithJeevi (AWJ), an Afrodance fitness business. While my life looked fulfilling on the surface, there was always a lingering sense that I was meant for something different. The opportunity came during a three-month sabbatical in 2022, when I traveled across 10 African countries. Kenya, in particular, captivated my heart.


Before the trip, my family—especially my dad—was apprehensive. Their concerns mirrored the media-driven stereotypes about Africa: poverty, crime, and instability. But I refused to let those fears define my decisions. Instead, I approached the experience with an open mind, determined to see Africa through my own eyes.



Landing in Kenya, I was immediately struck by its beauty—rolling hills, breathtaking sunsets, and vibrant streets filled with life. But it was the people who truly won me over. Kenyans have an unmatched warmth and resilience. They are quick to share a laugh, offer help, and make you feel at home. It felt as if Kenya had been waiting for me, just as I had unknowingly been searching for it.


Over time, what began as a sabbatical transformed into a calling. I fell in love with Kenya’s rich cultural tapestry, the rhythm of its music, and the incredible energy of its people. These experiences deepened my connection to Afrodance, a form of movement that embodies freedom, joy, and self-expression. My business, which started as a way to share my love for dance, quickly evolved into a platform for bringing people together and showcasing the magic of African culture.


Recently, during a trip to Dubai and an inspiring Mindvalley event, I found myself introducing myself to people as someone from Singapore who now lives in Kenya. Surprisingly, it felt natural and deeply right. For so long, I had been navigating between two identities—rooted in Singapore yet drawn to Africa. Saying it out loud gave me clarity, pride, and peace. Kenya wasn’t just where I lived; it was now an integral part of who I am.


Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi, Kenya

The transition to living in Kenya wasn’t without its challenges. Navigating unfamiliar systems, witnessing deep inequalities, and managing the slower pace of life required patience and adaptability. But Kenya has also taught me invaluable lessons about gratitude, humanity, and finding joy in simplicity.


This journey has not only shaped me but also transformed AWJ. From hosting major events like The Afrodance Experience to launching the first-ever AWJ Retreat in Kenya, my work now reflects a fusion of Singaporean precision and Kenyan heart.


For those contemplating a bold move, my advice is simple: trust your instincts and stay curious. Moving to Kenya has been the most rewarding decision of my life. It has allowed me to break free from societal expectations, discover my purpose, and find a second home in a place I never imagined.




Kenya is more than a country to me—it’s a soul home. It’s where I’ve learned to embrace adventure, redefine success, and connect with the world in ways I never thought possible. I may have come here to explore, but what I’ve gained is immeasurable.

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