- Naomi Muchiri, once a forward for Thika Queens, departed Kenya in search of better opportunities and has now risen to prominence as a top chef in the United States.
- Hailing from a financially challenged family, Naomi’s life took a turn for the better when her brother Samuel Kimani, who had achieved success in the US, offered her support.
- Despite discontinuing her college education after studying catering at Utalii College, Naomi’s culinary talents garnered recognition from those in her circle
Naomi Muchiri’s journey from Kenya to culinary stardom in the US is a tale of triumph against all odds.
Born into hardship, Naomi’s fortune took a turn when her brother Samuel Kimani, already thriving in the States, extended a lifeline.
With his backing, Naomi clinched a green card and embarked on an odyssey that would redefine her destiny.
“Touching down in the US, I bunked at my brother’s pad, cared for by my sister-in-law Josephine Kimani, as I hustled through odd gigs. It was then I stumbled upon caregiving,” reminisced Naomi, once a footballer with Thika Medisca United, now Thika Queens, showcasing her skills upfront as a striker.
Yet, the sizzle of the kitchen soon lured her away.
Despite dropping out of Utalii College, where she studied catering, due to motherhood, Naomi’s culinary flair couldn’t stay hidden.
Whispers of her tantalizing dishes spread like wildfire, leading her to cook for myriad households.
“I enrolled in Utalii College for catering, but motherhood forced me to drop out,” Naomi explained.
Fueled by her culinary passion, Naomi’s brother, Samuel Kimani, seized the chance to appoint her as the head chef at his restaurant, Jambo Grill, in Alabama.
In her realm, Naomi orchestrates every aspect of the kitchen, from crafting menus to managing staff and ensuring top-notch cuisine.
At Jambo Grill, Naomi whips up a mouthwatering array of African delicacies, from ugali and bhajia to fish and an assortment of meats like matumbo, goat, and nyama choma.
The eatery has become synonymous with exceptional African fare, drawing patrons far and wide.
Reflecting on her journey, Naomi showers gratitude on her brother, Samuel, for his unwavering support. She acknowledges that without him, her culinary conquest wouldn’t have been possible.
“Without our brother Samuel’s backing and guidance, I wouldn’t be living my culinary dreams today. I owe him immensely for the opportunities he’s provided and the miles he’s helped me traverse,” Naomi concluded, her heart brimming with appreciation.
As Naomi continues her culinary ascent, she remains thankful for the doors
