Thrive Community: A Safe Haven for Autoimmune Warriors

On 7th July 2021, Joy Ng’etich founded the Thrive Community, not just as a support group, but as a lifeline. The date, famously known in Kenya as Saba Saba, is a day that honours the courage of those who fought for multi-party democracy. It is a day of resilience, of warriors insisting on change. By purpose or providence, Thrive was born on this very day, a community built by warriors, for warriors.

What began as a small circle of people navigating the silent storms of autoimmune illness has grown into a strong, hopeful movement. A home where no one has to justify their pain, hide their fears, or walk their journey alone. At Thrive, we don’t just survive. We grow. We uplift. We reclaim our strength together.

With time, as Thrive grew, Joy noted the need for a team. Thrive was morphing faster than she had imagined. She set up a team. A steering committee- individuals who shared and understood the mission and vision of a successful support group. She also invited Natasha Muloko and shortly after Mikeson Mugo to be Co-Founders- brilliant Co-leaders with a wealth of experience in autoimmune advocacy, events, and partnerships. There’s a saying many of us know well: if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, walk with others. Thrive chose the long road, together.