From Prison to Purpose: Nolega’s Story

When Nolega was released from prison in Kenya after serving 15 years, she entered a world that had changed dramatically while she was away.

She had no home, no reliable way to get food, and no family waiting to welcome her back. Because of the stigma surrounding her incarceration, Nolega and her children had been rejected by members of their family.

But Nolega did have faith, determination, and skills she had learned while in prison.

During her years of incarceration, Nolega came to know the Lord as she watched prayers for her children answered. Her faith became central to her life, and she eventually became a worship leader inside the prison. She also received practical training in salon work and tailoring—skills that would later help her rebuild her life.

Rebuilding Life After Prison in Kenya

After her release, some well-wishers gave Nolega a place to sleep, and she found work waiting tables in a small restaurant. She earned very little, but rather than focusing only on her own needs, she used what she could to help pay school fees for her older children, who had been unable to attend high school because the family could not afford the cost.

Jana O'Guin watched as Nolega made difficult but responsible choices despite having almost nothing.

Nolega didn't need someone to build a life for her. She needed an opportunity to use the skills she already had to build one for herself.

Jana and Nolega found a small space where Nolega could open a salon and tailoring business. Jana paid six months of rent in advance—about $30 per month—and purchased a few supplies. The total investment was approximately $300.

That relatively small investment gave Nolega the opportunity she needed.

She built a successful business, began supporting herself and her children, and reconnected with her family.

The Inspiration for Building Families For Tomorrow

Nolega's experience revealed a much larger problem.

Jana realized that there were likely many other women leaving prison in Kenya with the desire and ability to rebuild their lives but without the home, employment, family support, or resources needed to begin again.

Helping women after incarceration required more than meeting an immediate need. They needed a pathway toward independence—and their children needed to be part of that restoration.

Nolega's journey became part of the inspiration for the founding of Building Families For Tomorrow, which today helps women leaving prison rebuild their lives through counseling, biblical discipleship, vocational and business training, family reunification, and transitional support.

And Nolega's story has come full circle.

Today, Nolega serves as the Matron at Building Families For Tomorrow, caring for and overseeing children whose mothers are currently in prison.

The woman who once left prison with nowhere to call home is now helping provide safety and stability for children experiencing the effects of their own mothers' incarceration.

Nolega didn't simply rebuild her life. She became part of helping other families rebuild theirs.