Orator | Author | Founder & President of The Voices of Benny Foundation
Being born in Africa means following a certain pattern of life. Go to school, pass exams, take a "good" course, graduate, get a job, marry and have children, have a status quo in the society, build some wealth, be an opinion shaper and that's it. What if there is more to life than this? What if we limit ourselves and model our lives according to the society that raised us? What if God has put in us more than what we see?
My name is Bennyhinn Walubengo, I am 20 years old. I just did my first mega event some weeks ago, by the grace of God I gathered 1000 young people for a public speaking and leadership summit. I grew up in Baba Dogo, Nairobi (a middle-class slum) where most people struggle to live a comfortable life but at the end of the day we all survive to see the next day.
I am passionate about raising a generation of eloquent, effective speakers that can represent God in all spheres of life and industry. I am the founder of the Voices of Benny Foundation, through which, we have managed to train over 5000 young people in Kenya. Allow me not to dwell so much into my achievements, but rather speak about my scars and the mistakes that have made me dynamic despite my age.
What were the biggest initial hurdles and how did you overcome them?
I struggled with self-esteem at a young age because of my poor handwriting and background. I studied in 7 high schools because I was considered too influential, vocal and bold that I was labelled an "inciter" making me get more than 8 suspensions. I had my first child at the age of 18 and this had a major effect on me. I had just repeated school and things were getting tense with my parents, struggling with sexual immorality in my teenage years was also a tough experience.
I have written this because I know what it means to be in the dark. I know what it means to see the light of God. I know what it means to be celebrated. I know what it means to be rejected. I know what it means to lose everything in life. I know what it means to have God as the only person by your side.
What books are you currently reading?
Above all the achievements, life is all about the grace, the light and the love of God. I am currently reading ‘The State Vs Nelson Mandela’ by Joel Joffe.
What advice would you give to an upcoming youth or talents locally and internationally?
I am learning that boldness is not taught in school, it is learnt practically. My parting shot is that champions are made in the gym, but awarded in the ring.
Social Media Handles: Instagram: @bennyhinn_walubengo (Link: https://instagram.com/bennyhinn_walubengo?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=) Facebook: @Bennyhinn Walubengo (Link: https://www.facebook.com/bennyhinn.welamond) TikTok: @bennyhinn_walubengo (Link: https://www.tiktok.com/@bennyhinn_walubengo) LinkedIn: @Bennyhinn Walubengo (Link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bennyhinn-walubengo-022282214/)
YouTube: @Voice of Benny Bengo (Link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxFgyRyXzWO75GYZhmnsbSw)