Evans Munzaa is a father who grew up in eastern Kenya. After graduating from college, he hoped to work in IT (information technology). But he couldn’t find a job.  

“I have been forced to find ways to survive and earn a daily wage,” he says.  

What’s Mr. Munzaa doing instead? He is learning the Chinese martial art of kung fu. Wait, why kung fu?  

Mr. Munzaa wants to stay active and maybe become a full-time coach one day. He could also earn money from coaching one day. 

He’s not alone. Many young people in Kenya are learning kung fu to bring in income too. 

A coach named Kennedy Murimi trains dozens of children and youth in Nairobi’s Kawangware neighborhood. “This year, there have been more young people joining us,” he says. “Most of them are saying they’ve lost their jobs and are trying out kung fu to see if they can become coaches or compete in tournaments and get paid.” 

Some students feel kung fu has helped them stay out of trouble and learn discipline.  

“Since I started, it has changed my life, and it has given me a purpose in life,” student Elvis Munyasia says.  

God gives many tools to guide us closer to Him and away from evil. Prayer, Bible study, good friends, honest work, and wholesome activities all play a part. He is the one to give us purpose and direction in life. For some people, He provides kung fu. 

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. — Jeremiah 29:11