Kalenjin musician Msupa S, widely known for her hit songs and vibrant personality, is facing a significant challenge in the United States as she juggles the demanding trifecta of family, education, and personal responsibilities. Currently pursuing a nursing degree, the musician has found herself stretched thin between attending classes, caring for her children, and maintaining her household—all while living far from her support network in Kenya.
In a candid and heartfelt social media post, Msupa S opened up about her struggles and her search for a nanny to help lighten the load. She shared an advertisement, saying, “Kama uko na visit visa na huna doh za ticket, nitafute nikulipie ucome unisaidie na watoto, and I’ll still be paying you walai shule ndio inanikimbiza.” The ad, written in a mix of Swahili and English, translates to, “If you have a visit visa and can’t afford a ticket, reach out to me; I will pay for your ticket so you can come help me with the kids, and I will pay you as well. Honestly, school is overwhelming me.”
The plea highlighted the extent of her challenges as she attempts to navigate the rigors of nursing school, a notoriously demanding field, while also managing her household responsibilities as a mother. Msupa S, who is studying to become a registered nurse, emphasized, “Shule ndio inanikimbiza, anyone please,” expressing her need for assistance with the mounting pressures of her educational commitments.
The response from her followers was immediate and varied, with many expressing empathy and offering potential solutions. One follower, @lucie_arjens, suggested, “Niko na mama ako Texas anatafuta job. Hebu nitafute,” which translates to, “I have a mother in Texas looking for a job. Please reach out to me.” However, Msupa S expressed concerns about the potential cost of hiring someone from Texas, replying, “@hmoriango2009 huyo si atakuwa expensive sana ama,” hinting at the financial constraints she is already experiencing.
Amid the comments, encouragement poured in from others who could relate to her plight. One user, @winnie_wesleys, shared her own experience of managing nursing school with two young children, a husband, and a full-time job, reassuring Msupa S, “You will be fine hun. Ni kwa muda mfupi tu. Went to nursing school with two small kids, husband, and a full-time job. It was just my husband and I. I’m happy to testify that it turned out great—RN, BSN here.” Msupa’s response was one of raw honesty: “@winnie_wesleys aki ni ngumu kwangu, I’m running mad already 😂,” revealing the emotional toll her situation is taking on her.
Following the overwhelming response, Msupa S clarified her criteria for the nanny position. She explained, “Let me explain my story about the nanny. Gender? Only female. There are so many people who’ve misunderstood. I said I am looking for someone who already has a visa, a visit visa, because if you have a work permit, you can’t stay with me.”
She continued, detailing the arrangements she’s willing to make: “So I can accommodate someone who has a visit visa, and I can help you with other things—apply to school, get someone to marry—but things are done slowly, you understand? Salary we will discuss. This is a live-in job, ni chini ya maji, while I go to school and work.” This statement highlights her willingness to provide broader support to someone willing to assist her, but it also underscores the complexities of finding the right fit for such a unique and sensitive arrangement.
Msupa S’s situation sheds light on the broader challenges faced by many immigrants in the U.S., particularly those balancing education, family, and financial responsibilities. Her openness has sparked a conversation around the sacrifices and resilience required to pursue one’s dreams in a foreign land. As she continues to navigate these challenges, Msupa S remains a beacon of determination, reflecting the strength and spirit that have defined her both as an artist and as an individual striving to build a better future for herself and her family.