Photo: Nafula Sharleen/Facebook
For many Kenyans relocating abroad, the promise of better opportunities often comes with new social pressures and lifestyle adjustments.
While the focus is typically on career growth and financial stability, integration into new environments can also expose immigrants to habits that may derail long-term goals.
A US-based Kenyan nurse and entrepreneur, Nafula Sharleen, has sparked discussion online after sharing candid insights into the social realities faced by Kenyans living in the United States.
In a social media statement, she claimed that alcohol consumption is one of the behaviors Kenyans are increasingly associated with abroad.
“Walevi wamejaa majuu… Kenyans tunajulikana kwa ulevi huku,” she said, cautioning new arrivals to be mindful of their social circles.
Nafula warned that peer pressure among diaspora communities can have financial and personal consequences, particularly for newcomers trying to fit in.
“Ukifika USA, choose beshte zako wisely. Beshte zako ndio watakujenga ama kukuingiza kwa bad credit history ya madeni because of pressure ya ku show off online,” she stated.
She urged Kenyans abroad to prioritize financial discipline and long-term planning over short-term gratification, noting that lifestyle inflation and unnecessary competition often lead to debt.
“Acha competition… live within your means na upige mboka ubadilishe home kwanza. Pombe hakuna pahali inaenda,” she advised, encouraging migrants to focus on building stable careers before indulging in luxury.
Nafula also highlighted the risks of excessive drinking, particularly among immigrants attempting to cope with new environments or social expectations.
“Ukiamua kuwa kalewa, formu ni kulewa na class… lakini ukianza kunywa kumi kumi kwa pressure, utajipata kwa shida,” she said, adding that associating with the wrong crowd could negatively influence behavior.
She further cautioned that poor decisions driven by peer influence could contribute to mental health challenges.
“Utajipata na madrepression as a result of making bad choices,” she warned.
Through her hosting initiative in the US, Nafula says she mentors newly arrived Kenyans, guiding them on financial management, career focus, and responsible living.
“Part of my hosting ni kuguide my brothers and sisters who are new immigrants… huku wasee wako focused na wameachieve a lot in a short time,” she explained.
According to her, individuals under her mentorship have made significant progress, including building strong credit histories, paying off vehicles, and growing their savings.
“Bank account zao wengine zinashinda wasee wamekaa huku hata 10 years… credit history wameijenga mbaya, magari wame pay off,” she noted.
Nafula emphasized that discipline, positive networks, and clear goals remain critical for success in the diaspora, urging Kenyans abroad to avoid distractions and focus on sustainable growth.