Content creator Natalie Tewa recently opened up about the challenges she faced during her childhood and her mother’s struggle to provide for the family.
Contrary to popular belief that she grew up in a wealthy environment, Tewa clarified that her upbringing was far from luxurious.
Reflecting on her childhood, Tewa recalled, “I saw someone saying I am a rich kid, thanks for those blessings.”
She then shared her experiences growing up in a humble household, revealing the hardships her family endured after her parents’ divorce.
A significant upheaval marked Tewa’s early years. Her parents divorced when she was around four or five years old.
At that time, the family was living in Uganda, where her mother held a good job that provided a decent income.
However, their lives took a tragic turn when a fire destroyed their home, reducing all their belongings to ashes.
“At age 4 or 5, my parents divorced.
We used to live in Uganda, and she had a really good job. Sadly, our house caught fire,” Tewa explained.
Following this devastating loss, the family relocated to Nairobi, where they had to start over with nothing.
Tewa recounted how an aunt took them in while her mother struggled to find her footing in the new city.
“We were left with nothing.
We moved to Nairobi and lived with my aunt for some time before my mum found her footing,” she stated.
Over time, Tewa’s mother ventured into the mitumba (second-hand clothes) business.
The proceeds from this small enterprise were enough to take care of the family’s needs.
Eventually, they were able to move out of her aunt’s home and secure a house in Nairobi Dam Estate in Langata.
“She used to sell mitumba to survive, and we then got a house in Nairobi Dam Estate in Langata,” Tewa added.
Despite these challenges, Tewa’s mother prioritized her education.
Tewa attended prestigious schools, including Makini Primary School, Precious Blood High School, and Brookhouse International School.
She later pursued higher education at the University of Leeds in the UK, where she graduated with a degree in Architectural Engineering.
Despite her success, Tewa remains grounded.
She dismissed claims that she is an “Instagram baddie,” instead emphasizing her down-to-earth nature.
“When you meet me, I am not an Instagram baddie. I am a villager, very down to earth,” Tewa affirmed.
Tewa’s story is a testament to resilience and the importance of staying true to oneself, no matter where life takes you.