Entrepreneur | Inspirational Speaker | Mental Health Activist
Global Award Winner | Women Empowerment Activist
What if I told you that you can be anything you desire? A billionaire, a president, a teacher just whatever you want to be. But you aren’t that person because you have given people and the universe the power to dictate who you are. Self love and self belief is not selfishness. I was rejected, humiliated and viewed as a failure, honestly that’s true, because I was often undermined in school, I love that part. Did I mention I was also depressed and almost committed suicide 5 times? That’s how I ended up being a mental health activist.
My name is Maryben Omollo, I am 30 years old, raised in Kenya, Africa. I am the Founder and CEO of Greeneseal Cleaners and Pest Controllers, Chairperson of East Africa Cooperative, the Host of Silent Conversation Show, this show takes us back to where it all began - (mental health problems in our society, things we are scared to speak about). With my vast background in business management, sales and marketing and computer networking; I am able to sit as one of a board member - Women in Business organization. Fast forward, I am grateful to be acknowledged and be involved in my community by giving back. Examples are via job opportunities, women empowerment initiatives etc.
Awards received in this space are:
- As the Top 40 Under 40 Africa Award winner under Women Empowerment category
- Top 35 under 35 Kenya, Hospitality category,
- Rising Star award winner,
- Top 50 Women in ERP by Source USA,
- Eastern Africa Ambassador under Global Startups Award.
I am so passionate about mental health and single parents motherhood, often people ask me why single mothers? Single mothers are some of the most underprivileged, stigmatized and discriminated members of our society. Majority of the single mothers, especially in the slums end up in the streets as hawkers or prostitutes. Where they end up being subjected to alcohol and drugs – potentially dangerous situations. When left on their own, I believe women and children suffer the most in my or our society.
What were the biggest initial hurdles and how did you overcome them?
My difficult moments were dealing with mental health breakdown and also financial instability, it wasn’t an easy journey. We are all scared to admit we aren’t okay, but it’s okay not to be okay and ask for help. I was depressed for years but got my redemption when I reached out for help. I lost my job in 2015 and a few months later I lost friends, I understand how it feels to sleep without food, being locked out of the house days without meals and being a laughing stock. I understand not having the financial resources to go job hunting. I was jobless for 5 years. I registered my company in 2017 but never really did anything with it. I didn’t have all the required documents back then. But that was not the excuse. But I worked my behind off and also sought help.
What books are you currently reading?
Currently I am reading a book called “Eat that Frog “ by Brian Tracy.
Your advice to an upcoming youth or talents locally and internationally?
I am looking forward to a generation that stands up for themselves mentally, also a generation that won’t stigmatize single mothers but help them raise their children. We are setting up a foundation that will fight for equal rights for these families in my community. Find a support that would be there for you through good or bad times. My biggest support system is my mentor, spiritual mother and my family.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: @maryben_omollo
Greeeneseal Limited Pest Control | Cleaning | Disinfection Emails: info@greeneseal.com/sales@greeneseal.com Website www.greeneseal.com