Jeremy Damaris, a renowned philanthropist, is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and the transformative ability of God’s grace. His story begins in the humble surroundings of Ngegu, Kiambu County, where he grew up in a poor, single-mother-led household. Life, at that point, offered few promises beyond completing primary school and working on the coffee plantations where his mother, aunties, uncles, and grandfather labored as seasonal workers.

Despite these challenges, young Jeremy found inspiration in Pastor Pius Muiru, a preacher who broadcasted on radio and TV. Jeremy admired him deeply and dreamt of one day preaching like Pastor Muiru. He would even imitate newscasters, developing a passion for speaking and performing.

High School Life and Humble Beginnings

After completing primary school, Jeremy never imagined he would continue his education. However, his mother, whose sacrifices were endless, surprised him by securing a spot for him at Kiambu Township Secondary School. “I didn’t know they were ladies’ shoes, so it didn’t bother me,” Jeremy recalls, humorously reminiscing about how, in his early years of high school, he wore what others considered girls’ shoes simply because his mother had done everything in her power to ensure he had what he needed.

With his mother’s struggles etched in his heart, Jeremy was determined to make the most of his education. He realized that the reason his mother worked in the plantations was to ensure that he wouldn’t have to. However, life was not easy, and Jeremy had to hustle to support his education. He began hawking cakes in paper bags, walking long distances, and later hired a bicycle for 40 shillings to make his work easier. One day, he cycled from Kiambu to Ngomongo, Githurai, and Kahawa West and back to Kiambu, determined to sell his products.

The insults and ridicule he received from passersby, especially from motorists and touts, inspired him to write a song titled “Nikuri Mwihoko” (“There is Hope”). “I cried as I sang the song,” Jeremy remembers. It was this song that sparked the beginning of his music career. In 2008, he managed to raise enough money to record and release his music, selling over 1,000 CDs in three months, despite not having any promotions or radio airplay.

From Struggles to Success

Jeremy’s journey was far from easy. His persistence and determination, however, led him to unexpected opportunities. He managed to land a job as an MC at various events, even though he had no prior experience. He had the conviction that he could do it better than anyone else, and his confident and persuasive nature won over audiences. Over time, his MC skills developed, and he started to gain more recognition for his work.

In 2012, Jeremy ventured into business, starting a small hotel in Ngegu where he sold chapatis, fries, tea, and mandazis. He also sold charcoal during the week when he wasn’t MCing. The business flourished, but jealousy from others soon led to competition, as four women began selling charcoal and fries at lower prices. His once-thriving business was soon left without customers, and Jeremy’s life took a devastating turn when his son fell ill and tragically passed away. This loss, coupled with the collapse of his businesses, left Jeremy devastated, questioning God’s purpose for his life.

In his lowest moments, Jeremy decided to leave Ngegu, feeling emotionally broken and financially depleted. He moved to Kiambu town and, despite his personal loss, managed to turn his life around. With newfound hope, Jeremy’s fortunes began to change. During one of his MC gigs, he caught the attention of one of President Uhuru Kenyatta’s campaign strategists, who invited him to join the campaign. Jeremy became an integral part of the campaign in Central Kenya, earning Sh40,000 a day and gaining recognition as a man who had dined with the President.

A Testament to God’s Faithfulness

Jeremy’s rise to success was not just about financial gains; it was a testimony to God’s faithfulness. From working in the coffee plantations for a mere Sh4,000 to making Sh20,000 a weekend, his transformation was nothing short of miraculous. He worked as a presenter for “Githima Kia Muoyo” on Property TV, where he interviewed various Kikuyu gospel musicians, and continued to build his philanthropic efforts.

One year after the loss of his son, Jeremy released an album titled “Ndoiga ni Wega” (“It Is Well”), as a tribute to God for sustaining him through that difficult time. Jeremy’s message to those facing trials is clear: “Examine your heart to know if you’re going through these hardships due to sin or as a test from God.”

Jeremy’s past struggles have fuelled his passion for giving back to others. He has built houses for poor families, paid hospital bills, and empowered many young men through his Jeremy Damaris League / Man of Value Program, which rescues young men from the grips of alcohol and drugs. He has touched countless lives by offering them hope, opportunity, and guidance, striving to be a ladder for others to reach their dreams, all for the glory of God.

A Global Impact

Now living in the United States, Jeremy’s work continues to impact lives worldwide. From the struggles of his youth in Ngegu to becoming a philanthropist with a heart for helping others, Jeremy’s story is a powerful reminder of how far faith, hard work, and perseverance can take you. As he continues to change lives, his commitment to God and his mission to help others shines through every aspect of his life.

“I want to be a ladder to someone else achieving his dreams to the glory of God,” Jeremy says. His story is not just about his journey—it’s about how God can transform lives and provide opportunities for those who trust in Him, no matter their circumstances.

Jeremy Damaris, a concerned advocate for parents who work tirelessly abroad to provide for their children back home in Kenya, has strongly condemned the actions of some children who misuse the resources sent by their hardworking parents. In his heartfelt remarks, he highlighted the struggles and sacrifices that many parents go through while working overseas in order to give their children a better life. Unfortunately, some children fail to understand the hardships their parents endure and, instead of appreciating their efforts, they engage in reckless behaviours like excessive alcohol consumption and irresponsibly squandering the money sent by their parents.

Jeremy pointed out that many of these parents are nearing retirement age and are more than willing to return to Kenya. However, the thought of their children not living a responsible or prosperous life often causes them to reconsider. With heavy hearts, some elderly parents choose to remain abroad for longer than they initially planned, hoping that the financial support they continue to provide will lead to better outcomes for their children. Yet, this hope is often dashed when they realize that their efforts are being undermined by irresponsible actions back home.

In his plea to Kenyans with parents working abroad, Jeremy urged the younger generation to reflect on the sacrifices made by their elderly parents. He emphasized the need for responsible use of the financial resources sent from abroad, encouraging children to invest in creating better environments and ensuring their well-being instead of squandering what could be life-changing support. Jeremy called for greater empathy and responsibility, advising that those whose parents are working overseas should support them through prayer, respect, and gratitude.

The key message in Jeremy’s plea is the reminder that these parents, despite their age and weariness, continue to work hard with the sole purpose of providing a brighter future for their children. It is crucial that children acknowledge and value these sacrifices by using the resources wisely and fostering a culture of responsibility at home.