Cynthia Simantoi Oningoi

My Maasai name Simantoi comes from a Maasai word ‘OSIM’ which means company, so it basically means someone who gives company.)

Human Rights Activist Social Change Agent

Age: 26 years ( 28th May 1993 )

Provenance: Kajiado Town, Nairobi City, Kenya

How long have you lived in Kenya? All my life

Occupations: Ever since I was in the University from 2012 I began volunteering for a different organization that dealt with people. Those that aimed to change the social as well as economic welfare of our people. Most of my time I have volunteered in trying to change my community(Maasai) perception on harmful cultural practises (Early marriage and Female Genital Mutilation FGM ). This led to me securing my first job which I am currently in Amref Health Africa.

Passions and Interests: I am passionate about fighting for the rights of the vulnerable in the society.

What do people know you for? Many people know me for my campaigns against early marriage and FGM.

Thoughts on Kenya? Kenya means the world to me, It is not a perfect place but it is a country full of fighters,people who are struggling over different issues all to make it a better place for our future generations .I am glad to be part of those fighting.

Tallulah’s Musings

Conversation & Portrait by Tallulah
july 2019, Vancouver, Canada
Published October 2019