Kenyan singer Vivianne Kenya has opened up about the emotional challenges she faced after relocating abroad, revealing that life in the diaspora was not as welcoming as she had expected.
Now based in Atlanta, the Afrobeat singer-songwriter said one of her biggest surprises was encountering jealousy and competition from fellow Kenyans living overseas.
“I Expected Support, Found Competition”
Speaking about her experience, Vivianne noted that she had anticipated a strong sense of community, mentorship, and solidarity, but instead found that not everyone was willing to support others’ success.
“I was surprised by the behaviour of some Kenyans in the diaspora. I expected guidance and solidarity, but instead I encountered envy and competition,” she said.
Choosing Peace Over Toxic Relationships
The singer, who recently welcomed her second child in the United States, said the experience forced her to reevaluate her relationships and make difficult decisions for her well-being.
She revealed that she chose to distance herself from certain individuals, including those close to her, in order to protect her mental and emotional health.
“I cut off certain people, even those close to me. It was not out of anger but for the sake of my peace,” she explained.
Life After Separation and New Beginnings
Vivianne has spent recent years focusing on healing and personal growth following her 2022 separation from her former manager and husband, Sam West.
Known for hit songs like Charm and Teren Teren, she is now embracing a new chapter defined by resilience, self-discovery, and balance between life in the United States and Kenya.
