From fame to faith: 5 Kenyan celebrities who left the spotlight for religion
Fame may open doors, but it does not always fill the soul. Over the years, several Kenyan celebrities have found that the spotlight was not enough to bring them peace or lasting joy.
Instead, they chose to turn their backs on fame and follow a different calling—one rooted in faith. Their choices have surprised fans but also inspired many who see their transformations as a sign of something deeper. Let us take a look at some of them who walked away from the limelight to pursue spirituality.
1. Amani (Cecilia Wairimu)
Cecilia Wairimu, professionally known as Amani, emerged as a dominant force in Kenya’s secular music scene in the early 2000s. With chart-topping hits like “Move On”, “Ninanoki” featuring Nameless, and “Bad Boy” with Nyashinski, she captivated audiences across Africa.
Her collaborations with international artists, including R. Kelly on the One 8 project, further solidified her status as a pan-African pop sensation.
In 2018, Amani announced a significant shift in her life, embracing Christianity and declaring herself born again. This spiritual awakening led her to release gospel tracks such as “My God” and “Upendo”, marking her commitment to her newfound faith. Reflecting on her journey, Amani shared, “I have turned a new leaf. I am now born again. I count all joy.”
2. Michelle Ntalami
Kenyan award-winning entrepreneur and CEO of Marini Naturals, Michelle Ntalami, is yet another high-profile public figure who left tongues wagging in 2023 after revealing she had ditched her fleeting party lifestyle and whirlwind of publicity to seek God.
A year later, in December 2024, she marked her first full year devoted to spirituality and disclosed that she had learnt so much during that period that she felt compelled to part with certain things she once held dear in her former life.
According to Michelle, it was God who instructed her to burn specific items — including alcohol, drinking games, masks, and other prized possessions.
At the time, the socialite also revealed she had chosen to abandon certain habits, such as engaging with specific social media pages and listening to particular genres of music.
Then, aged 38, she admitted she had no idea what God had in store for her when He called her to be born again but expressed deep gratitude for choosing to heed the call, noting that she was now filled with peace.
“At the time, I had no idea why God was leading me to do this — it was a first for me. I filmed this video so that a year later, I could understand exactly what He was up to. Now, I can’t even begin to explain the world of difference it has made in my life. So many temptations, anxious moments, painful experiences, and strange happenings simply vanished.”
3. Wahu Kagwi
Wahu Kagwi, a celebrated Kenyan singer and actress, first gained prominence with her hit single “Sitishiki” in 2005. Her music, characterised by a blend of R&B and Afro-pop, resonated with a wide audience, earning her accolades such as the inaugural MTV Africa Music Award for Best Female Artist in 2008.
In 2017, Wahu experienced a spiritual awakening that inspired her to delve into gospel music, culminating in the release of the song “Sifa”.
This transition reflected a deepened faith and a desire to explore themes of spirituality in her artistry. Beyond music, Wahu is also an entrepreneur, owning the Afro Siri salon, and continues to inspire many with her multifaceted career .
4. Size 8 (Linet Munyali)
Linet Munyali, popularly known as Size 8, began her music career with secular hits like “Shamba Boy” and “Vidonge”.
However, in April 2013, she underwent a profound personal transformation, embracing Christianity and rebranding herself as Size 8 Reborn. Her debut gospel single, “Mateke”, marked the beginning of a new chapter, leading to subsequent releases such as “Afadhali Yesu” and “Jemedari”.
In December 2021, Size 8 was ordained as a pastor at Jubilee Christian Church (JCC) Thika Town, a milestone she described as a testament to God’s grace in her life.
Furthering her ministry, she launched Christ Revealed Ministries in early 2023, aiming to provide spiritual guidance and support to her congregation. Reflecting on her journey, Size 8 acknowledged the challenges she faced, stating, “God rescued me from the pit of darkness and saved me by His grace, yet I was one of the chief of sinners” .
5. Nairobi West Niccur (Ali Abdi Lole)
Ali Abdi Lole, once widely recognised by his online alias Nairobi West Niccur, was a high-profile Instagram influencer celebrated for his impeccable fashion sense and digital savvy.
At the height of his popularity, he ranked among the most followed personalities in Kenya’s online scene and was also known as a “growth plug”—helping others grow their Instagram following and personal brands.
During his influencer prime, he frequently collaborated with fellow Instagram stars and fashion tastemakers such as Mchina and Kaloleni Niccur, the latter of whom tragically lost his life in a road accident on March 1, 2022.
In a surprising turn, Ali publicly embraced Islam in 2022, reverting to his birth name and announcing his commitment to a spiritually grounded life.
He later relocated abroad, where he has continued to share heartfelt updates on his spiritual journey. More recently, he revealed that he has enrolled in a nursing course, marking yet another chapter of personal reinvention. His evolution from digital stardom to spiritual and professional fulfilment reflects a profound search for meaning beyond the fleeting nature of online fame.
