A Kenyan woman who left a high-paying job in the United States has ignited discussion online after opening up about her decision to relocate back home, citing mental health struggles and a search for peace over financial gain.
Faith Mbori, who previously earned about $14,000 monthly (approximately KSh 1.82 million), says she walked away from what many would consider a dream career abroad, describing her experience as emotionally draining despite the attractive salary.
“Six months ago, I walked away from my highest-paying job in the USA,” she said. “On paper, it looked like a dream. In reality, it was anything but.”
Mbori explained that her workplace environment had become increasingly hostile, leaving her under constant stress. She noted that the pressure was so intense it led to panic attacks even before reporting to work on some days.
“No amount of money is worth losing your peace,” she said, adding that her mental health deteriorated despite financial stability.
She revealed that she initially planned to stay longer while working a per diem role but ultimately decided to return to Kenya earlier than expected. According to her, the decision turned out to be life-changing.
“I booked a one-way ticket to Kenya for January… but life, or rather God, had other plans. I left earlier than expected and it turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made,” she said.
Since returning home, Mbori says she has found renewed purpose through volunteering in hospitals and rebuilding her life in a more peaceful environment.
She described her current state as fulfilling and mentally stable compared to her previous life abroad.
“Today, I am at peace. I am fulfilled,” she said. “I am volunteering in hospitals, reconnecting with purpose, and choosing a life that aligns with my wellbeing.”
Her reflections have sparked wider debate online about the realities of life in the diaspora versus living in Kenya, particularly among young professionals balancing financial ambition with mental health concerns.
In a follow-up reflection, Mbori also responded to criticism directed at people who choose to return home after living abroad, questioning the pressure placed on diaspora returnees to justify their decisions.
She argued that life in Kenya can offer a “soft life” for those who are financially stable and grounded locally, pointing to land ownership, small businesses, and lower day-to-day pressure compared to high-cost living abroad.
“Diaspora is great for exposure and money, but let’s stop the superiority complex,” she said. “Kenya is not a punishment zone.”
She contrasted what she described as the slow-paced lifestyle in parts of Kenya with the intense grind culture abroad, where some workers juggle multiple jobs, high rent, and limited personal time.
“Some people abroad are working three jobs and booking happiness two weeks a year,” she noted, while questioning assumptions that success is only defined by living overseas.
Her comments have added to a growing conversation among Kenyans about migration, return journeys, and shifting priorities among professionals who are increasingly weighing mental wellbeing alongside economic opportunity.
Mbori maintained that personal choice should remain central in such decisions.
“If your dream is abroad, go. If your peace is home, stay. If you want both, even better,” she said.