From Rock Bottom to Recognition - Amb. Maryben Omollo’s Journey to Her 10th Award

Introduction

On August 25, 2023, Ambassador Maryben Omollo—an internationally celebrated mental health and leadership coach, 17-time award-winning speaker, and founder of the Maryben Foundation—shared a deeply personal and triumphant message with her global community. From a place of self-doubt and stagnation, she rose to become a beacon of resilience and transformation. Her latest milestone? Winning her 10th award in just three years—this time, the Gold category for the Digitally Fit Award under the Entrepreneur, Icons Making an Impact Online category. Her story is not just about accolades. It’s about the power of perseverance, the courage to rise from failure, and the strength to believe in oneself even when the world doesn’t.

A Humble Beginning: From Doubt to Determination

Maryben candidly recalled a time when failure felt like a constant companion. She humorously described herself as the “president of the ‘Stay in Bed and Sulk’ club,” where her biggest move was switching between TV series. Her dreams felt distant, and her confidence was buried beneath layers of fear and uncertainty. But something shifted. She chose to stop identifying with failure and instead began to embrace her inner champion. With time, effort, and unwavering determination, she transformed her mindset—and her life.

The Power of Transformation

Winning the Digitally Fit Award marked a significant turning point in Maryben’s journey. It wasn’t just a trophy—it was a symbol of how far she had come. From feeling like a magnet for misfortune, she became a magnet for success. She turned her “can’t” into “can,” her “won’t” into “will,” and her setbacks into stepping stones. The view from where she stands now, she says, is breathtaking. But it didn’t come without scars, struggles, and moments of doubt. Her story is a reminder that transformation is possible for anyone willing to keep going.

A Message to Those Still in the Storm

Maryben’s message wasn’t just a celebration of her success—it was a lifeline to those still navigating their own storms. She reminded her audience that it’s okay to stumble, to feel lost, or to doubt. But what’s not okay is giving up on oneself. “Every storm eventually runs out of rain,” she said, encouraging others to hold on, to keep moving, and to trust that brighter days are ahead. Her journey is proof that even the darkest moments can lead to the most brilliant breakthroughs.

Gratitude and Community

Maryben took a moment to express heartfelt gratitude to those who supported her along the way. She thanked her partner for believing in her, her mentor for walking the journey with her, her family for their unwavering support, and her online community for being part of her transformation. She also extended appreciation to KEOnline and the Digitally Fit Awards for the recognition, and to the inspiring individuals she met during the event, including Dr. Ezekiel Mutua, Eric Omondi, Charlene Chelagat Ruto, Alphonce Juma, and Pauline Kiraithe—women and men she described as trailblazers and icons.

Lessons to Learn

Maryben Omollo’s journey offers several powerful lessons:

1. Failure is not final: It’s a chapter, not the whole story. What matters is how you respond.

2. Transformation begins with belief: The first step to change is believing that it’s possible.

3. Celebrate progress: Every milestone, no matter how small, is worth honouring.

4. Support systems matter: Having people who believe in you can make all the difference.

5. Your story can inspire others: Sharing your journey can be the spark someone else needs to rise.

Reflection

Ambassador Maryben Omollo’s rise from rock bottom to her 10th award is a story of grit, grace, and growth. It’s a reminder that success is not reserved for the lucky—it’s earned by those who refuse to give up. Her vulnerability, humour, and honesty make her story relatable, while her achievements make it aspirational. She reminds us that we all have an inner champion waiting to be awakened. That even when life feels stagnant, we have the power to shift, to rise, and to thrive. Her journey is not just her own—it’s a mirror for anyone who has ever doubted their worth or questioned their path. So here’s to the comebacks, the courage, and the community that makes it all possible. And here’s to Maryben Omollo—proof that from the ashes, greatness can rise.