This is Evelyne Mshai Mwakina. I embody a progressive spirit, rising above humble beginnings through faith, education, and self-discipline. My memoir teaches resilience, empowerment, and purposeful growth while championing gender equality, leadership, and determination. With 34 years at Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), advancing to Corporate Affairs and Communications Manager, my career reflects dedication and impact. My story inspires young people and professionals to break barriers and reach their full potential against all odds.
“Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it.” — Habakkuk 2:2 (NKJV)
From a young age, I carried a strong conviction that one day, I would write a book. I could not pinpoint the exact subject or the reasons behind this calling, but the thought of writing remained a persistent whisper in my heart and mind. This dream accompanied me through the different stages of my life—primary school, secondary school, high school, and even university. It was an unshakable inner voice that continuously reminded me of a mission I was yet to embark on.
In 2019, this desire intensified. While attending a 24-day Christian Haggai Leadership Training at the Haggai Institute in Maui, USA, I formally set writing a book as one of my personal targets to accomplish within five years. “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” — Proverbs 16:3 (NIV). By 2021, I began jotting down ideas and reflections, capturing moments of my life and the steadfast faithfulness of God. At that stage, my work was scattered notes and fragmented thoughts, but I knew I was laying the foundation for something greater.
By 2022, I had a draft of my memoir. It was a raw, heartfelt narration of my journey—detailing the obstacles I had faced, the resilience I had built, and the faith that had carried me through. As I sought the right title to encapsulate my story, an unexpected moment of revelation came. While taking a bath one day, the words Breaking the Barriers dropped into my mind. It was as if the title had been waiting for the perfect moment to reveal itself. Not long after, the second part of the title, Empowered Girl Child, also came to me, perfectly aligning with the message I sought to convey.
The journey of writing was both challenging and fulfilling. I had to balance between work, family, society, learning, and adding knowledge to grow in my career, as well as church and related responsibilities. At times, it felt overwhelming, yet against all odds, God enabled me to sail through. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13 (NKJV). I had to stretch myself thin, sacrificing sleep and utilizing every available moment to put my thoughts together
I sharpened my writing skills, ensuring that every word carried weight and meaning. Writing my memoir was not just about recounting my experiences—it was about shaping a message that would inspire and empower. I wanted to assure girls, women, and other vulnerable groups in society that with discipline, faith in God, self-awareness, focus, and the right mindset, everything is possible.
Through my story, I sought to break barriers—not just my own, but those imposed by society, circumstances, and self-doubt. My memoir became more than just a personal reflection; it was a call to action, a testimony of resilience, and a declaration that one’s background does not determine one’s destiny. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV). Coming from a humble background, I faced numerous challenges, but God’s grace and unwavering guidance enabled me to rise above them. Writing this book was a labour of love, faith, and purpose, and I am grateful to have finally brought my long-held dream to fruition. In December 2023, my dream came true when I officially published my memoir, Breaking the Barriers: Empowered Girl Child.
Yet, the journey does not end here. The spark that ignited my writing has now turned into a blazing fire. After my memoir, I have continued writing, and I now have four drafts of my next books—each carrying a unique message of empowerment, transformation, and faith. I plan to publish them this year and in early 2026, trusting that the Lord, who began this good work in me, will bring it to completion. “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 1:6 (NIV).
I am reminded of the words of Maya Angelou: “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” My story is now told. My testimony is now shared. And my journey as an author continues. I press on, knowing that writing is not just a skill but a ministry, a calling to touch lives, inspire hearts, and break barriers. To every aspiring writer out there, I say: “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” — Zechariah 4:10 (NLT). Your story matters. Write it, live it, and let it inspire the world.
