Nairobi Woman Shares Heartwarming Journey Saving Lives, Says She Was Inspired By Mum

• A Nairobi woman has become a beacon of hope for abused children and women in the community, thanks to her unwavering commitment to rescue them from violence
• Juliana Olayo's journey into community work was ignited by a powerful source – her mother, who raised them while doing the same as a teacher
• Her mother's compassionate nature and inclination to support those in need left a profound mark on her
• She recounted her childhood, seeing her mother bring in abused women and needy children, a memory that continues to influence her work

In a heartwarming and inspiring journey, a Nairobi woman has been making significant strides in saving lives by rescuing abused children and women from domestic violence.

What inspired Juliana to start community work?

Juliana Olayo, whose work is fueled by a deep sense of compassion and dedication, credits her mother as the source of her inspiration for her work.

Juliana, a dedicated human rights activist, opened up about her motivations and experiences in an exclusive interview with TUKO.co.ke.

"My mother gave me the inspiration of becoming a social worker because she raised us up doing the same as a teacher," Juliano shared.

"I could see it while growing up, she used to come to our home with needy children and some abused women who had challenges within our area."

According to the human rights activist, her mother's nurturing nature and commitment to saving lives left a lasting impact on her as a child.

"My mother is such a calm woman whom to date loves saving lives naturally. Even in her retirement years in our Busia home, she is still doing the same," she added.

Juliano's journey as a community worker took shape during her secondary school years at Huruma Girls, a sister Catholic school.

Juliana starts advocacy work

Witnessing fellow students dealing with various traumas, including abuse and poverty, ignited a passion within her.

She recalled a pivotal moment when a distressed mother approached her to discuss her daughter's sexual assault case, which required a bribe for justice.

This shocking incident marked the beginning of her advocacy work.

"I started following up on such cases for free...vigorously without fear," Juliano stated.

According to her, she did not hesitate to take action, even leading to the arrest and charging of an individual for child buggery.

This experience highlighted to her the vulnerability of voiceless victims who lacked proper support.

Dealing with emotionally challenging situations daily requires immense resilience. Juliana revealed that her oath of service and faith motivates her to persevere.

What is a typical day for Juliana?

"Every time I approach a case, no matter how challenging, I remind myself of the oath of purpose...and that is humanity."

Juliano's days are often hectic and emotionally taxing, yet she finds them fulfilling. She emphasized her belief in transforming tests into testimonies and shared,

"I feel so successful when my victims turn into victors."

However, the journey is not without its challenges. Financial constraints often hamper quick responses to rescue cases.

Juliano explained that the lack of available rescue centres can lead to separating victims, causing further emotional damage.

Despite these hurdles, her network of friends, family, volunteers, and supporters like Elvis Owallo Arika, whom she called her "emergency button," sustain her efforts.

Building trust and rapport with abused individuals is vital to Juliano's work.

Components that help victims heal

She emphasizes love, non-judgment, and constant encouragement as critical components in helping victims heal. Her approach has created a large extended family of survivors.

Collaboration with law enforcement, shelters, medical professionals, and support organizations is crucial to ensuring a holistic approach.

Juliana's relationships with these stakeholders play a pivotal role in her success.

"No man/woman is an island...no one can stand alone," she emphasized.

Juliano dreams of establishing an Open Talk Counseling Rescue Center to address mental health wellness.

She envisions a future where her community is free from depression and where no life is lost to people taking their own lives.

Her dedication and unwavering spirit serve as a beacon of hope for survivors and a testament to the power of compassion and advocacy in creating positive change.

Juliana celebrates teacher helping pupils

Earlier, a teacher from Kariobangi South Primary School, identified as Teacher Gachoki, was being celebrated for going above and beyond his duty to support needy students.

Olayo celebrated the selfless educator for his devotion to his profession while shedding light on his exceptional efforts.

Olayo celebrated Teacher Gachoki in a Facebook post on her page, pointing out he had taken it upon himself to ensure his pupils receive a quality education.

Not only that, Juliana told TUKO.co.ke that he also ensures his students have the essential support they need to thrive. "