I still remember the first time I came to Adana while searching for a place to stay.

I was going through a lot, and a lot was going through me. House hunting had completely drained me, and life felt heavier than I knew how to carry. Before I realised it, I was overwhelmed and in tears.

That’s when Mary, Adana’s manager, and Fridah, the housekeeper, did something I’ll never forget. They simply held space for me. They comforted me, listened, and reminded me that kindness still exists.

To make the day even better, there happened to be an evening dance class. 😂 And let me tell you—I shook these hips! Stress ilikuwa inanionea 18, but after that class, it didn’t stand a chance.

That was the moment I knew I wanted to stay here.

My parents and I made the arrangements, I moved in, and I was blessed with a wonderful roommate. Together, we found our rhythm and made the space our own.

Since then, life has taken me through difficult seasons—times when I was scared, exhausted, and uncertain. It has also given me beautiful moments filled with joy, excitement, and growth.

Through every season, Adana has been more than just a place to sleep. It has been a safe space where I’ve been free to feel every emotion, celebrate every win, and pick myself up after every setback.

Somewhere along the way, Adana stopped being just accommodation.

It became home.

I truly couldn’t have asked for a greater blessing or a better place to live. ❤️

Authored by Ivy Wanjiku, a young scholar studying at Strathmore University.