Tiffany Mbugua
Tiffany Mbugua
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Age: 28 Education: Bachelor's Degree Lives in: Mathare
Age: 28 Education: Bachelor's Degree Lives in: Mathare
What do you do for work? Domestic Worker
What do you do for work? Domestic Worker
Before working with Haki Data Lab, had you ever collected data before?
Most recently, I have been involved in research focusing on waste pickers in Mathare. This work examined the role and contributions of informal waste pickers in the city’s waste management system, the challenges they face in terms of recognition, safety, and access to opportunities, as well as the possibilities of integrating them into more formal waste management structures. My role included data collection, conducting interviews and focus group discussions. I also worked on analyzing the data and supporting in drafting reports that highlight their rights, struggles, and the need for policies that dignify and protect their work.
Before working with Haki Data Lab, had you ever collected data before?
Most recently, I have been involved in research focusing on waste pickers in Mathare. This work examined the role and contributions of informal waste pickers in the city’s waste management system, the challenges they face in terms of recognition, safety, and access to opportunities, as well as the possibilities of integrating them into more formal waste management structures. My role included data collection, conducting interviews and focus group discussions. I also worked on analyzing the data and supporting in drafting reports that highlight their rights, struggles, and the need for policies that dignify and protect their work.
Tell us about your “superpowers”! Everyone has one, what are yours?
Storytelling and connecting with people. Whether it’s through research, community engagement, or advocacy, I have a way of listening deeply and helping people feel heard.
Tell us about your “superpowers”! Everyone has one, what are yours?
Storytelling and connecting with people. Whether it’s through research, community engagement, or advocacy, I have a way of listening deeply and helping people feel heard.
What brings you joy in your daily life?
The simple, human stuff: meaningful conversations, seeing someone’s confidence grow after we’ve supported them, and the creative small wins that add up a successful community meeting. I also enjoy quieter moments that recharge me: a peaceful morning with tea and a good book, cooking for friends, and spending time outdoors. Those moments keep me grounded and make the hard work of advocacy and organizing feel worthwhile.
What brings you joy in your daily life?
The simple, human stuff: meaningful conversations, seeing someone’s confidence grow after we’ve supported them, and the creative small wins that add up a successful community meeting. I also enjoy quieter moments that recharge me: a peaceful morning with tea and a good book, cooking for friends, and spending time outdoors. Those moments keep me grounded and make the hard work of advocacy and organizing feel worthwhile.
Share a memory that makes you proud of yourself!
One memory that makes me really proud was when I helped organize and document a community dialogue with waste pickers in Mathare. Many of them had never been invited to share their experiences in such a space before. I remember how hesitant some were at first, but by the end of the session, people were speaking boldly about their rights, safety, and dignity. Seeing them feel heard and valued, and knowing I played a part in creating that safe space, made me proud and it reminded me why I do this work.
Share a memory that makes you proud of yourself!
One memory that makes me really proud was when I helped organize and document a community dialogue with waste pickers in Mathare. Many of them had never been invited to share their experiences in such a space before. I remember how hesitant some were at first, but by the end of the session, people were speaking boldly about their rights, safety, and dignity. Seeing them feel heard and valued, and knowing I played a part in creating that safe space, made me proud and it reminded me why I do this work.
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