How Maryben Omollo Turned a Cleaning Company into a Movement for Empowerment

Sweeping Change: How Maryben Omollo Turned a Cleaning Company into a Movement for Empowerment

Introduction

Maryben Omollo is not just a businesswoman—she is a force for transformation. From losing her job as a receptionist to becoming a celebrated entrepreneur and mental health advocate, her journey is one of resilience, vision, and purpose. As the founder and CEO of Greenseal Cleaners and Pest Controllers, Maryben has built more than a company—she has created a platform for empowering single parents and advocating for mental wellness across Africa.

A Mission Rooted in Purpose

Greenseal Cleaners, based in Kenya, offers cleaning and pest control services, but its impact goes far beyond hygiene. The company primarily employs single parents, offering them a stable source of income and a chance to rebuild their lives. This socially conscious model has earned Maryben widespread recognition, including the prestigious Africa Honorary Award for Women Empowerment at the African 40 Under 40 Awards, held in Accra, Ghana, on March 20. Maryben was honoured for her tireless advocacy for single parents—especially women—who are raising children on their own. Through her company, she provides not just jobs, but dignity, training, and hope.

From Job Loss to Entrepreneurial Triumph

Maryben’s journey began in 2015 when she lost her job as a receptionist. With a background in business management—holding a degree and certificate from the University of Nairobi and a certification in computer networking from Maseno University—she was determined not to give up. She turned to online learning, downloading books and watching YouTube tutorials to gain the technical knowledge needed to enter the cleaning and pest control industry. She also sought mentorship from professionals already in the field. While some were supportive, others dismissed her interest, questioning her place in such a male-dominated sector. Undeterred, Maryben pressed on. She founded Greenseal Cleaners and Pest Controllers, which now handles everything from general cleaning to fumigation, including the control of challenging pests like termites and snakes.

Recognition and Awards

Maryben’s work has not gone unnoticed. In addition to the Africa Honorary Award, she was named among the Top 35 Under 35 in the hospitality category by Youth Agenda and previously received the Top 40 Under 40 Women in Kenya award in 2021. Her influence extends to over 24,000 followers on LinkedIn, where she shares content on mental health, leadership, and empowerment. Her message is clear: “I dedicate this award to every single mother, every person battling mental health issues, and anyone who feels it’s impossible to achieve their dreams. With focus, identity, purpose, and vision, the impossible becomes possible.”

Empowering Through Employment

Maryben’s company is more than a business—it’s a mission. She believes that “one girl with a vision is a revolution,” and she lives this out by creating opportunities for the less privileged. Her commitment to empowering single mothers is deeply personal and unwavering. “There are days and nights I’ve sacrificed just to put a smile on a single mother’s face,” she says. Her goal is to equip these women with professional skills so they can build sustainable careers and break the cycle of dependency.

A Broader Celebration of Kenyan Excellence

Maryben was not the only Kenyan recognised at the African 40 Under 40 Awards. Other honorees included:

1. Ruth Maeni, awarded for Communication and Advocacy due to her youth empowerment and peace-building initiatives.
2. Christine Argolla, recognised in the Community Development category for her work as a climate change specialist and youth leader.
3. Rose Chepchichir Ronoh, honoured in the Consultancy category.
4. Anthony Ngure, celebrated in the Printing and Design category.
5. Dr. Toseef Din, CEO of MP Shah Hospital, awarded in the Health and Leadership category.

These individuals, along with other nominees, were acknowledged as continental icons, showcasing the diversity and talent of African youth under 40.

Reflection

Maryben Omollo’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, vision, and service. From a jobless young woman to a continental award-winning entrepreneur, her journey is filled with lessons for anyone facing adversity:

Lessons to Learn:

1. Purpose fuels perseverance: Maryben’s commitment to empowering others gave her the strength to overcome personal and professional challenges.
2. Learning never stops: She embraced self-education and mentorship to gain the skills she needed to succeed in a new industry.
3. Empowerment multiplies impact: By uplifting single parents, she has created a ripple effect of hope and opportunity.
4. Recognition follows impact: Her awards are not just accolades—they are affirmations of the lives she has touched.

Maryben’s story reminds us that success is not just about profit—it’s about people. Her work continues to inspire a new generation of African leaders who are not only building businesses but also building communities.