Celebrating a Journey: The Launch of Mwenda Thuranira’s "Taking Up Space"

On the evening of May 30, the Villa Rosa Kempinski buzzed with an atmosphere rich in warmth, laughter, and a profound sense of reverence. Friends, family, and industry leaders gathered to celebrate not just the launch of a new book, but to honor a remarkable journey of resilience and ambition. The spotlight was on Mwenda Thuranira, the CEO of MySpace Properties, as he unveiled his debut book, Taking Up Space.

A Transition from Entrepreneur to Author

The event marked a significant transition for Thuranira, who has long been recognized as a successful entrepreneur in Kenya’s real estate sector. However, this evening was about more than just business; it was a celebration of personal growth and the power of storytelling. Thuranira’s journey is one that defies expectations, and through his book, he aims to inspire others to do the same.

“This is more than just my story,” Thuranira stated during his address. “It’s a tribute to every person who’s ever been told to shrink or wait their turn. Today, we take up space—boldly, proudly, and unapologetically.”

The Essence of Taking Up Space

With the subtitle Success Secrets from a Real Estate Mogul, Taking Up Space encapsulates over two decades of personal and professional lessons. Thuranira’s narrative begins in his childhood in Meru and Isiolo, traverses his experiences abroad in the airline and hospitality industries, and culminates in the founding of one of Kenya’s most recognized property brands. His story is not just about success; it is anchored in values and vision.

The book is thoughtfully organized into 20 chapters, each exploring a key theme from Thuranira’s life. For instance, in “Firm Foundations,” he reflects on how his grandfather’s business wisdom and strong family ties shaped his mindset. In “Employment Pays,” he challenges the glorified narrative of “quit your job,” emphasizing the skills and discipline he gained while working for Air France and in the U.S. hospitality sector.

“My journey didn’t start with millions—it started with mindset,” Thuranira reflected, highlighting the importance of perspective in achieving success.

Heartfelt Tributes and Personal Stories

The evening was not just about Thuranira; it also featured heartfelt tributes from those closest to him. His wife, Venessa Magiri, delivered an emotional tribute that resonated deeply with the audience. “My husband left Meru with nothing but hope in his pocket and faith in his heart,” she said. “This book isn’t just paper and print—it’s a map for every young Kenyan who’s ever been told they’re dreaming too big.”

Adding a touch of humor, she remarked, “When he was writing this book, he’d wake me up at 2 a.m. with ideas. So tonight, I’m proud—but I’m also relieved. At least now, I can finally sleep!”

Lessons in Leadership and Resilience

Taking Up Space transcends mere biography. In chapters like “Success Habits” and “Failing Forward,” Thuranira candidly shares the routines, setbacks, and breakthroughs that have shaped his leadership style. He speaks openly about losses and the mental resilience required to bounce back, offering readers a glimpse into the challenges he faced along the way.

In “Working the Market” and “Investing in Real Estate,” he provides practical insights, from leveraging data and technology to anticipate trends, to making strategic investments in a rapidly changing economy. These chapters serve as a guide for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals alike.

A Call to Action

At its core, Taking Up Space is a call to action. Thuranira expressed his hope that the book would reach those who need it most: “My prayer is that this book lands in the hands of a young person in rural Kenya, a father who’s lost hope, or a millennial stuck between jobs,” he said. “Because this isn’t just a book. It’s a journey filled with hope, mixed with tears. Love mixed with aura. Determination mixed with doubt. And focus mixed with faith.”

The final chapters encourage readers to think beyond mere success and towards significance. Thuranira urges his audience—especially the youth—not to wait for permission to lead, create, or take initiative. “Too many people wait to be told it’s their turn,” he said. “I want to challenge that. Taking up space means you stop shrinking. You show up. You lead. You dare to do more.”

A Moment, A Movement

As the night drew to a close, it was clear that this was not merely a book launch; it was a message, a moment, and a movement. For many in the room, Taking Up Space was not just Mwenda Thuranira’s story; it resonated as their own. The evening served as a reminder that every individual has the power to take up space in their own lives, to challenge the status quo, and to pursue their dreams unapologetically.

In a world that often encourages conformity, Thuranira’s journey stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration, urging us all to embrace our unique paths and to take up space boldly.