African abroad (Tania from Kenya)

Tania was born in Kenya and has lived in five different African countries. After a short time in Thailand, she’s landed up in Germany, and she feels like this is somewhere she can stay for a longer time. 

Some of the reasons for this include feeling safer in Germany than in Kenya, and having the safety net of social help that is available in Germany. And yet, despite her contentment in Germany, her heart still belongs to Kenya. Talking with Tania, it’s clear that Kenya is still very much a part of her identity. 

She explains how, in her early times in Germany, she realized that she was in danger of losing her own identity as she integrated into the culture, and that she looked for ways to stay true to her roots. One way she does this on a daily basis is by giving back to Africa as much as possible.

She does it through several projects: Swahili Secrets is a travel service where you can book tours and safaris in Kenya. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has just about stopped tourism, and so Tania now sells African-inspired accessories on the site — and gives 20% of the sales back to the community in Kenya.

Bantu Sisters does eclectic interior decor, and they give back to artisans. And finally, The Kenyan Kind unites everyone with a connection to Kenya, with the goal of inspiring, connecting, and giving back. 

Tania talks to me about why she loves Germany, how the German directness is completely opposite to the Kenyan culture, how Germany is stress-free in many ways, and the differences between German and Kenyan people. 

Links to Tania 

• African Abroad Blog
• Swahili Secrets 
• Bantu Sisters
• The Kenyan Kind

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Podcast Intro Music by: Adrian Bran