Murugi Munyi has sparked conversation after stating that being broke in Nairobi is more about mindset than lack of opportunity. Speaking on the Founder Diaries Podcast, Murugi reflected on her early hustling days and how those experiences shaped her outlook on money. She explained that Nairobi offers countless ways to earn for people willing to work. According to her, the city rewards creativity, effort, and consistency. She challenged the idea that lack of money always comes from lack of opportunity.
Murugi shared that she has personally hustled on the streets, which gives her confidence when speaking on the subject. She said that when someone claims they are broke in Nairobi, she often questions whether they truly want to make money. In her view, opportunities exist in plain sight and are accessible to many people. She emphasized that even informal markets can provide income when approached with the right mindset. Her comments underline the importance of attitude and initiative in urban survival.
She further explained that small opportunities can quickly turn into profit if handled strategically. Murugi pointed to Gikosh as an example of a place filled with low cost items that can be resold at a higher price. She noted that many people overlook such options because they underestimate small beginnings. For her, the difference lies in seeing potential where others see inconvenience. This approach, she said, separates those who hustle successfully from those who remain stuck.
Murugi also spoke openly about her love for money and her desire to live well. She said she is not ashamed to admit that financial comfort motivates her. Wanting a good life pushed her to take risks and work harder when she had little. She believes that ambition plays a key role in financial growth. For her, money represents freedom, security, and the ability to enjoy life on her own terms.
To illustrate her point, Murugi shared a practical example from her past. She revealed that she once returned to sewing as a hustle when money was tight. She would buy a denim jacket from Gikosh for as little as 30 bob, clean it, add embroidery, and resell it for between KSh1,500 and KSh2,000. This experience showed her how creativity can multiply value. Her story highlights how mindset, skills, and effort can turn simple ideas into real income in Nairobi.
