Truphena Muthoni, who recently completed a 72-hour tree hugging challenge, has shown his commitment to environmental advocacy is not only evident in her record-breaking tree hug, but also in the way she presents herself.
In an exclusive interview with TV47’s Betty Kyalo, Muthoni explained that her hair is a powerful medium for storytelling, with 17 braids representing each of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Each color carries deep symbolic meaning, connecting personal expression to global responsibility.
“Black representing the African colour, green for reforestation, regeneration and hope, red for indigenous resistance and frontline courage and blue representing water protectors and human defenders,” Muthoni explained. By integrating these symbols into her appearance, she has created a visual narrative that reflected her values, blending culture, environmental consciousness, and advocacy in a unique way.
The materials she used were equally deliberate. “These are waste totally, they are yarn scraps and I have been reusing them like the green ones for 4 years and the rest of the colour for one year. So, I just wash and wear,” she said, highlighting her dedication to sustainable practices and recycling. For Muthoni, the hair is more than decoration. it is a statement about mindfulness, creativity, and the power of small actions to make a larger impact.
Her hairstyle also symbolizes resilience and personal commitment. In a world where environmental messages can often be overlooked, Muthoni found a way to make sustainability both visible and personal. By merging art, culture, and global goals, she has transformed herself into a living ambassador for the planet, inspiring others to consider how even the smallest actions like reusing yarn can contribute to a larger, global change.
Through her bold, symbolic hairstyle, Muthoni demonstrated that advocacy is not only about words or actions it can also be a vibrant, creative, and deeply personal expression that sparks conversation and inspires change.
