Kenyan Comedian Living In US Says He Worked Night Shifts At Retail Store While Studying Nursing To Raise Fees

• Kenyan comedian Robert Nyabwari, popularly known as Robe Ebundi, has shared his remarkable journey from working night shifts while studying nursing
• Robe recounted how an unexpected stroke of luck paved the way for his journey to the United States of America in 2009
• He found himself holding a Green Card, which he humorously described as a result of people photographing individuals for sale, leading to a Green Card win

Robe Ebundi, a Kenyan comedian hailing from Masimba in Kisii County, has shared his remarkable journey of perseverance and hard work in the United States of America (USA).

Robe moved to US through stroke of luck

From winning a Green Card through a stroke of luck to becoming a renowned comedian within the Kenyan community in the US, Robe's story is a testament to his resilience and determination.

Speaking on the Mkenya Marekani show, Robe said his journey to the United States began unexpectedly when he won a Green Card in 2009.

He humorously attributed this feat to the practice of people taking photos to sell and eventually leading to Green Card wins.

"Ile watu wanakuja shule wanapiga mapicha and they sell. Later, wanakuja kukupigia eti ohh uko na green card (People would come to school and take photos for selling, then later on, you are called being told you have won the Green Card). That's how I got my green card," he said.

He decided to move to the US without much prior consideration, marking the beginning of a transformative journey.

His initial job upon arrival was at a Walmart retail store, where he worked as an unloader.

Robe is also a trained nurse

Overcoming challenges posed by inexperience and language barriers, Robe demonstrated his unwavering commitment to achieving his dreams.

While many know him as a comedian, Robe is also a trained nurse.

He shared that as the firstborn in his family, he took on the responsibility of financially supporting his siblings' education and building a house for his mother, even before pursuing his own studies.

However, it was not until five years after arriving in the US that Robe was able to pursue his passion for nursing.

He recounted his rigorous routine of juggling full-time nursing school with night shifts at the retail store.

His schedule involved working night shifts, attending classes, grabbing only a few hours of sleep, and then returning to work once again.

Comedian had to work while studying

Despite the immense challenges, Robe's perseverance led him to successfully graduate as a nurse.

His journey from working night shifts at a retail store while pursuing his nursing degree showcases his determination and dedication to his goals.

"Ukiwa pekee yako, na uko shule fulltime, ni ngunu kuenda shule fulltime nursing na bills zote bado unalipa (When you are alone, it is not easy to study nursing while you have other bills to pay)," said the comedian.

"Nakumbuka, I used to go night shifts job, natoka job, naoga naenda class. Natoka class nalala two hours naenda job (I remember I used to work night shifts, come from work, take a shower then go to class. I would leave class, sleep for two hours then go to work)," he added.

Today, Robe Ebundi has become a recognizable figure within the Kenyan community in the US, known not only for his comedic talent but also for his inspirational story.

His ability to overcome obstacles and fulfil his responsibilities as a brother and son while pursuing his own dreams serves as a source of inspiration for many.

Kenyan man in US helps others get jobs

Separately, Sam's mission to help others has led him to establish his company, Globe Connections, which focuses on connecting people with healthcare, caregiving, and nanny jobs in the US.

In 2019, Sam relocated to the US; luckily, his hosts were gracious enough to encourage him to go to school for a short course before he could start working.

After his studies, he would find work immediately, and he realised people depended upon word-of-mouth to get employed.

Speaking in Kenyan Diaspora media, he said he charges a small fee given he currently has two employees due to the high demand.