Listening and Being the Last to Speak

Listening is one of the most essential yet challenging skills to master. It often feels like a struggle because the ideas in your mind are racing, each one eager to break free and be shared.

For many years, I wrestled with this challenge. It wasn’t easy, but I recognized that improving my ability to listen was non-negotiable. Over time, I’ve discovered the transformative power of truly hearing others. I’ve learned to embrace the pause, the silence that follows a spoken word, allowing the other person time to gather their thoughts.

Here’s the truth: Listening gives you power in a conversation. Let that sink in. When you genuinely listen, people feel valued and understood. They open up, sharing more deeply and offering insights that enrich the dialogue. This simple act builds trust and positions you as a thoughtful, reliable, and respected individual.

But listening isn’t just about hearing words; it’s about absorbing and internalizing what’s being said. Before you respond, pause to reflect on the message. Tailor your response to address the heart of the conversation. This practice will enable you to respond meaningfully and avoid the missteps of answering the wrong question or missing the point entirely.

Keep working on your listening skills—it’s a lifelong journey. Listen to everyone, no matter their background or role, because every person has something valuable to contribute.

Mastering the art of listening will empower you to navigate relationships, build trust, and unlock deeper understanding. So, strive to listen well, and always aim to be the last to speak.

Trust is Earned by Asking

Read that again. Trust begins when you allow yourself to be vulnerable, letting others step in and help you through challenges. The more you ask for help, the more opportunities you create to build trust—both in giving and receiving.

At first, this realization surprised me: to build trust, you often need to ask someone for a favor, for them to do something for you. It seems counterintuitive, but there’s a clear connection here—one that links trust and teamwork.

Teamwork thrives on trust. For a team to succeed, every member must trust that others will play their roles effectively. This trust allows individuals to focus on their tasks, knowing that the collective effort will align to achieve the shared goal. When trust is present, the pieces of the puzzle come together seamlessly, and the team accomplishes more together than anyone could alone.

What makes this dynamic so beautiful is its simplicity. Yet many people hesitate to ask for help, fearing vulnerability or rejection. But here’s the paradox: being vulnerable enough to ask not only strengthens trust but also creates a positive ripple effect. Once you experience how much better things work when trust is established, you’ll crave more of it.

And what does “more of it” bring you? It opens the door to collaboration, deepens connections, and fosters growth. With trust comes stronger bonds, genuine friendships, and the joy of shared accomplishments. Tasks become smoother, relationships become richer, and life feels more meaningful.

Trust is essential—not just in teams, but in all relationships and interactions. When we build trust, we create relationships that bring lasting joy and fulfillment. After all, true happiness often stems from helping and being helped by others.

Read that again.

The Goal of Nothingness

To truly align with all that you are manifesting, the key is to embrace the concept of nothingness. It may seem counterintuitive, but reminding yourself that nothing is best can be transformative. Nothing in your mind, nothing in your possession, and nothing pulling at your attention can actually be more liberating and empowering than you might realize.

Nothingness is profound. Think about it: we enter this world with nothing, and we leave with nothing. What if you could live in that state—holding on to nothing?

But what does "nothing" really mean? It's not about emptiness in a bleak sense but about letting go. It’s about clearing your mind, freeing yourself from thoughts that occupy space for too long. It’s about embracing stillness through meditation. Until recently, I didn’t fully understand the power of meditation. Now, as I’ve come to experience its depths, I welcome nothingness with all of me—my soul, my spirit, my mind, and even my body.

In nothingness, there is liberation. When you are nothing, ego fades. When you are nothing, identity dissolves. When you are nothing, worldly desires lose their grip. Why? Because in the state of nothingness, you transcend all of these attachments.

Here’s the paradox: when you become nothing, you become everything.

Nothing = Everything by Nzioki Munyao | Journal Entry from December 10, 2024


We Are Yula

Yesterday, our family lost a light so bright it could never truly be extinguished. My sister, Yula Kajune Munyao, was more than a sibling—she was the grandmother of our family, a guiding force of love, joy, and connection. Today, as I write this, I feel the warmth of her presence in every memory, every story, and every smile she left behind.

Yula Kajune Munyao | June 22, 1982 - November 19, 2024.

Yula was the heart of our family and my dad’s best friend and confidant. If we ever needed anything from him, Yula was the one we turned to. She had a special way of communicating with him—calm, loving, and effective—that could make anything happen. She was the glue that held us all together, the first to step up when help was needed, and a constant source of unwavering support for everyone in the family.

Her home was filled with love, a reflection of the deep connections she nurtured. Pictures of family adorned her walls and shelves—especially of her nieces and nephews, who adored her endlessly. Yula had a unique ability to make each of them feel special. She played with them, laughed with them, and created moments they will treasure forever. Her love for them was evident, and their love for her was equally deep. Our family cherished every moment we shared with her, holding tightly to the joy and warmth she brought into our lives.

Yula’s generosity was boundless and selfless. She treated her friends and cousins to drinks using her Sarova discount, often putting others’ joy above her own financial needs. Even when money was tight, she gave without hesitation, never complaining. She would buy thoughtful gifts “just because,” cover bills for those in need, and offer her time and energy freely. Yula didn’t give out of obligation; she gave out of love, making everyone she touched feel valued and seen.

Her friends, coworkers, and everyone she met felt the same way about her. At Sarova, her colleagues described her as the best coworker and friend anyone could ask for. On a trip to Sarova Lion Hill, I witnessed how deeply she was loved and respected by her work family. The messages I’ve received since her passing echo the same sentiment: people who met Yula—even briefly—carry cherished memories of her beautiful heart.

Yula was a celebrator of life. One of her favorite phrases, “Yay,” was her way of acknowledging joy, celebrating the little things, and lifting the spirits of those around her. I’ve turned it into “You Are Yula (YAY)” as a call to all of us to channel the goodness she embodied. Let’s live with her kindness, generosity, and infectious joy, celebrating life as she did.

“We Are Yula” (WAY) is not just a title—it’s a legacy. It’s a reminder to live freely and openly, to love without limits, to laugh without restraint, and to give without hesitation, just as she did. Yula’s love for Land Rover Defenders brought us countless conversations, and every Defender I see now will remind me of her passion and the bond we shared.

To my sister, Yula Kajune Munyao: You are forever in my heart. I miss you endlessly and will carry your spirit with me always. Your light will guide me as I strive to live as generously, lovingly, and joyfully as you did.

We Are Yula. You Are Yula. YAY.

With all my love,

Zikki

PLEASE SEND MORE PHOTOS & COMMENT BELOW WITH YOUR CELEBRATION OF YULA.

Refining Leadership: 50 Values I Aspire to Embrace.

Leadership is a journey, and it’s often the challenges and setbacks that bring our strengths and blind spots into focus. Recently, after a misstep at work, I found myself reflecting deeply on what it means to lead with purpose, integrity, and resilience. In this reflection, I considered the values and principles that guide me and shape my vision of an effective leader. These are not just ideals; they’re the standards I strive to live by daily. Here, I’ve distilled my thoughts into 50 key lessons that keep me grounded and inspired to grow. I hope they resonate with others who, like me, are committed to refining their leadership every day.

  1. Leaders remain composed under pressure.

  2. Leaders are decisive and intentional.

  3. Leaders listen attentively and speak only when necessary.

  4. Leaders are humble and grounded.

  5. Leaders strive for excellence in everything they do.

  6. Leaders manage their resources wisely, including finances.

  7. Leaders maintain order and tidiness.

  8. Leaders prioritize physical and mental fitness.

  9. Leaders are invaluable, respected for their integrity and foresight.

  10. Leaders earn followers through their principles and respect for others.

  11. Leaders can simplify complex ideas, making them easy for anyone to understand.

  12. Leaders care genuinely about others and show empathy.

  13. Leaders can follow as well as lead, knowing when to step back.

  14. Leaders exude greatness without needing validation.

  15. Leaders engage intensely and mindfully in their pursuits.

  16. Leaders in successful businesses plan thoroughly, sell effectively, and deliver consistently.

  17. Leaders address small problems to free up focus for larger tasks.

  18. Leaders are creative and continually bring new ideas to life.

  19. Leaders form friendships widely but maintain a few close relationships.

  20. Leaders think globally, viewing the world as their market.

  21. Leaders value the power of starting small and scaling wisely.

  22. Leaders recruit and nurture other leaders.

  23. Leaders stay curious and hungry for knowledge.

  24. Leaders are lifelong learners and avid readers.

  25. Leaders use humor to connect and lighten the atmosphere.

  26. Leaders are storytellers who convey vision and values through stories.

  27. Leaders are creative problem solvers who welcome challenges.

  28. Leaders view stress as a cue to pause, breathe, and recalibrate.

  29. Leaders treat each customer as an opportunity to create value.

  30. Leaders build meaningful connections with other leaders.

  31. Leaders stay humble and never forget where they started.

  32. Leaders live in the present and bring their best to each moment.

  33. Leaders offer constructive feedback.

  34. Leaders own their mistakes and learn from them.

  35. Leaders are honest and transparent.

  36. Leaders are introspective, constantly evaluating and improving themselves.

  37. Leaders cherish family and prioritize healthy relationships.

  38. Leaders build and maintain healthy habits.

  39. Leaders embrace their humanity, acknowledging their imperfections.

  40. Leaders remain approachable and relatable.

  41. Leaders inspire growth and bring out the best in others.

  42. Leaders keep the focus on adding value to others in every interaction.

  43. Leaders foster a creative environment, where innovation is encouraged.

  44. Leaders are passionate about their work and dedicate themselves fully.

  45. Leaders prioritize effective communication and clarity.

  46. Leaders adapt and grow, learning from every experience.

  47. Leaders stay humble as they succeed, respecting everyone they meet.

  48. Leaders share credit and celebrate the accomplishments of their team.

  49. Leaders leave a legacy by empowering others to lead.

  50. Leaders eat last*, leading from a place of service and humility.

True leadership is a continual journey of learning and self-reflection. These qualities are the standards I strive to embody, knowing that there’s always room to grow. What values resonate most with you as a leader, and what have you found essential on your own journey? Let’s learn from one another—share your thoughts and insights on what it means to lead with impact and purpose. Together, we can create a space where leadership is redefined, one insight at a time.

* Just purchased Simon Sinek’s, “Leaders Eat Last” and plan to finish reading by the November 15th, 2024.

Photo. Credit: Eze Amos

Introducing Iced Cacti: The Fun Side of Munyao.art

At Munyao.art, we blend art with philanthropy, offering serious works of original art and signed prints. But we also believe art should be fun and engaging. That’s where **Iced Cacti** comes in.

Iced Cacti is the playful counterpart to Munyao.art, curated by Zikki Munyao and Remy Munyao, also known as **RZMY**. It’s where art, fun, and philanthropy meet in a vibrant, entertaining way. Iced Cacti will host exciting video content and offer a range of products like cartoon-inspired posters, merchandise, and possibly even NFTs. While Munyao.art focuses on signed prints and original pieces, Iced Cacti will feature mostly digitally created content, adding a fresh, lighthearted twist to our offerings.

Over the coming months, we’ll be curating the site at [IcedCacti.com](https://icedcacti.com), building out this fun and exciting side of the Munyao.art brand. Whether it’s playful art or engaging content, Iced Cacti will bring a smile to your face while staying rooted in our mission of creating meaningful impact through art.

Stay tuned for more updates from the world of Iced Cacti!

The Hidden Selfie to the Trillion Dollar Elephant Iced Cacti YT Video

The moment rzmy took this selfie mid-video

In the world of art, sometimes the most captivating moments happen behind the scenes, in a flash, without any planning. While recording the Trillion Dollar Elephant video for Iced Cacti, something special was captured. The moment you see here is a selfie that my son, RZMY, snapped in the middle of filming. It’s raw, unfiltered, and caught the two of us vibing, mid-creative flow, with the Trillion Dollar Elephant standing powerfully behind us.

Remy Z. aka RZMY & Zikki | Iced Cacti | Trillion Dollar Elephant YT Video | Oct 2024

This photo represents more than just a behind-the-scenes look. It gives you a glimpse into the energy and connection we share while creating these projects. You’ll see this very moment unfold in the video itself, but here’s a little challenge for you: Can you spot this exact moment in the video? Maybe you’ll catch the subtle expressions we had before or after this freeze-frame, or even recognize a connection between Trillion Dollar Elephant and my earlier piece, Empowered.

Both pieces, in their own way, represent different sides of the same coin. I leave it to you, the audience, to decide—are these two paintings really about the same individual? After watching, I’d love to hear what you think. Head over to Iced Cacti on YouTube, find this moment, and let me know—do Trillion Dollar Elephant and Empowered speak to you in the same way?

Explore the full video and the meaning behind the art—if you know me, maybe you’ll catch something familiar. And don’t forget to share your thoughts!

From Eight Students to National Champions: The Inspiring Journey of Mbaikini Girls Secondary School

Mbaikini Girls Secondary School has grown tremendously since its founding around 2020. When my family and I were there for the launch, the school had just one classroom and eight students, filled with hope and ambition. Fast forward to today, the school has grown to accommodate 86 students, and this year marks the graduation of its first class. It has been a journey of perseverance, hard work, and community support.

My family and I, along with Tunji Soroye, the founder of Just Help Africa, have been fortunate to be involved from the beginning, witnessing the school’s remarkable transformation. We’ve visited every year, encouraging the students to pursue their dreams and take full advantage of the educational opportunities they’ve been given. Now, with the school’s recent win in the national robotics competition, we are thrilled to see their talents recognized on a national stage, preparing them to compete in the World Robotics Olympiad in Turkey.

Being there every year and witnessing the students' growth has been one of the most rewarding experiences for our family. It’s not just about seeing the school expand physically, but also watching the girls gain confidence, dream bigger, and now, take their education global.

We’re excited for what’s next and look forward to sharing more stories of empowerment, education, and the impact art can have on our world.

Image Credit: Standard Media, and other Independent Photographers

A Day of Caring and Community through Art

This morning, I had the incredible opportunity to join nearly 1900 volunteers for the United Way of Greater Charlottesville's Day of Caring. It was an inspiring start to the day, with volunteers from all walks of life uniting for a common goal—giving back to our community in meaningful ways.

What made today even more special for me was seeing the painting I created for the Day of Caring featured on the t-shirts that every volunteer proudly wore. It was a humbling moment to see my art symbolizing the heart of volunteerism and community upliftment.

The design itself reflects the spirit of today—people coming together, working side by side for the good of our community. Seeing most of the volunteers in those t-shirts reminded me of how art can unite and inspire collective action.

Today’s events are a reminder that when we come together, whether through volunteerism or creativity, we make a difference. I’m grateful to United Way of Greater Charlottesville and all the volunteers for allowing me to be part of this transformative day. This isn’t just about art on a t-shirt; it’s about the beauty in action and the power of community.

Together, we’ve created something beautiful, and I’m excited to continue supporting our community in new ways.

Thank you for caring, and thank you for making today special!

Sound of Silence

In a world that constantly demands our attention, silence becomes a rare and precious commodity. My latest painting, "The Sound of Silence," captures the complex relationship between external quiet and internal noise. At first glance, the painting appears serene, minimalist in its use of color—a stark contrast to the vibrant hues often found in my other works. But as you delve deeper, you begin to feel the tension, the unease that lies just beneath the surface.

Sound of Silence by Nzioki Munyao | 36”x48” Acrylic on Canvas | Completed August 2024

This 36"x48" acrylic on canvas represents those moments when you attempt to meditate, to find peace, but are confronted by the cacophony of thoughts swirling inside your mind. The bold, yellow lines symbolize the intrusions—those random thoughts, worries, and distractions—that interrupt the stillness we so desperately seek. The face in the center is devoid of expression, reflecting the outer calm we try to maintain while inside, our minds are anything but silent.

"The Sound of Silence" invites viewers to explore their own experiences with silence and noise. How often do we truly find silence, and when we do, are we ever really alone with our thoughts? This painting is a visual representation of that inner struggle—a reminder that silence is not merely the absence of sound but the presence of internal dialogue that we must navigate daily.

As with all my work, I encourage you to ask yourself: Where does "The Sound of Silence" belong in your space? Does it resonate with your own experiences of meditation or mindfulness? I'd love to hear your thoughts and reflections.

At Munyao.art, we stand at the intersection of art and heart, tying our art with philanthropy and empowering others. Join us on this journey. #artwithheart

Sound of Silence by Nzioki Munyao

Smile! Life’s Too Short Not to Find Joy in Every Moment

Life is a journey full of layers—just like an onion. And as an artist, I’ve come to realize that each layer we peel back reveals something new about ourselves and the world around us. Sometimes, it brings tears to our eyes; other times, it brings a smile to our face. But no matter what, it’s all part of the beautiful process of living.

My latest painting, Onion, aka, R.5.O, is inspired by my experiences as an onion farmer in Kenya. Onions may be known for making us cry, but this one’s different—it’s here to make you smile!

R.5.O represents the many layers of life. Each layer holds its own story, its own emotion. And just like peeling an onion, the more we delve into life, the more we discover about ourselves and others. Some layers may be tough, others tender, but all are essential to the whole.

In this piece, I wanted to capture the essence of joy found in the unexpected. R.5.O is a cheerful onion character that turns the usual tears of cutting an onion into a reason to smile. It's a playful reminder that joy can be found in the most unlikely places, and that no matter how many layers we uncover, there’s always something to smile about.

So here’s a little nudge from me to you: keep peeling back those layers, keep exploring, and most importantly—keep smiling. Life’s too short not to try your best to find the joy in every moment.

What do you see when you look at R.5.O? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Betting on NFTs: Unlocking the Potential of Digital Assets

Unlock the potential of digital assets with Munyao Art's collection of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs). Explore unique digital artworks, music, and more, all backed by blockchain technology for verifiable ownership. Dive into the world of NFTs, where each token represents a one-of-a-kind piece of digital content. Join us in betting on NFTs and shaping the future of the Metaverse. Discover our collection on OpenSea.io/munyaoart.

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Transform Your Garage into an Artistic Haven: Creative Ideas and Inspiration

Have you ever considered your garage as more than just a place to park your cars? Join me on a journey of transforming this often-overlooked space into an artistic haven. Discover how a simple repair project evolved into a vibrant floor artwork, engaging the community and sparking countless conversations. Get inspired to reimagine your own garage and create a space where art, creativity, and connection thrive.

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Finding beauty in Everything!

Welcome to another exploration at munyao.art, where we unite art, fun, and philanthropy in every story we tell. Today, I want to share with you a journey of beauty that stretches from the bustling streets of Cleveland, Ohio, to the quiet charm of Charlottesville, Virginia.

Standing Mitt with Ball, 1973 | Steel, lead, and wood | by Claes Oldenburg

The Artistic Pulse of Cleveland

A big shout out to my friend John Shanahan, who was an incredible guide during my visit to Cleveland! His enthusiasm for the city truly enhanced my experience as he shared around the vibrant art and architecture that Cleveland has to offer.

At the Cleveland Museum of Art, I was captivated by the diverse array of paintings and exhibits. The delicate brushstrokes of Claude Monet and the bold expressions in Vincent van Gogh’s works were particularly mesmerizing. The museum also hosted fantastic exhibits showcasing art from Africa and the Byzantine Empire, providing a rich cultural narrative that spans across time and geography.

Beyond the museum, Cleveland itself is a work of art, with stunning architectural feats and picturesque landscapes. From historic buildings to modern designs, and from majestic bridges to serene parks, every corner offered a visual treat, inspiring anyone who walks its paths.

Crafting Beauty in Charlottesville

Returning home to Charlottesville, inspired by the beauty and friendship experienced in Cleveland, I decided to channel this artistic energy into creating something special for a person dear to me—my wife. With John’s shared enthusiasm still in mind, I set out to make planters that were not just functional but also artistic.

Using simple tools and materials, I crafted each planter, infusing design elements that echoed the art and architecture I admired in Cleveland. The process was captured in a timelapse, showing the transformation of raw materials into beautiful works of art. These planters now bring a piece of Cleveland’s beauty into our home.

Uniting Art, Fun, and Philanthropy

Here at munyao.art, we believe in the power of art to bring joy and make a difference. Each blog post, each story, each project we undertake is aimed at spreading beauty in both tangible and intangible ways. Whether it’s through viewing masterpieces, exploring new cities, or creating with our own hands, art is a universal language that speaks to hearts across the globe.

As we continue to find beauty in everything, we also seek to use our platform to support causes that make the world a better place. We invite you to join us in this journey, to explore, create, and contribute. Together, we can turn everyday scenes into extraordinary memories and help others see the beauty in their surroundings.

Thank you for being part of our community. Let’s keep finding and making beauty everywhere we go!

Pugsy

At munyao.art, the canvas is more than just a medium for art—it's a portal to joy and a helping hand extended across continents. Every brushstroke is a blend of vivid fun and a serious mission to make the world a little brighter, both visually and philanthropically.

Pugsy by Nzioki Munyao | 36”x48” Acrylic on Canvas | Completed 4/20/2024

Working with fluorescent paint isn't just about the bold visuals; it's an adventure in texture and light. In daylight, the colors shout from the canvas, but it's in the dark where they whisper their secrets, glowing with an inner fire.

The process is a reminder that art should always be a delight, a playful leap into the unknown with a brush as your compass. And with munyao.art, the voyage doesn't end with the drying of the paint. Each sale is a step toward uniting communities, supporting local and international causes, and painting a brighter future with every hue.

So, dear reader, as you consider bringing this glowing pug into your life, know that you're igniting more than just your walls—you're helping to illuminate paths for others. And now, a question to spark the conversation: When was the last time art not only caught your eye but also touched your heart?

Pugsy by Nzioki Munyao | Lighting up the Living Room

Share your experiences, and let’s grow this community of art enthusiasts who believe in the power of giving. Join the discussion at munyao.art, where every comment, share, and purchase helps turn the vision of a connected, compassionate world into reality.

Discover more, get involved, and let's make the canvas of the world as vibrant as our art at munyao.art.

Pugsy by Nzioki Munyao | Looking Out While You Sleep

The Unity of Golf Embodied in "The M Tiger" Painting

Golf is a sport that unites people, and nowhere is this connection better symbolized than in a striking acrylic painting named "The M Tiger." This 12"x12" canvas piece is a vibrant representation of the spirit and passion inherent in the game.

The M Tiger | 12”x12” Acrylic on Canvas | Gift from the Artist to Matthew Lewis

"The M Tiger" captures the essence of golf—a tiger lying in repose with a golf flag as a testament to the sport's blend of calm precision and inner fire. The tiger's bold yellow and black palette reflects the focus and strength required in golf, while the red flag symbolizes the achievements and shared experiences on the course.

Gifted to Matt Lewis, "The M Tiger" is not only a representation of the sport's challenges but also its camaraderie. To Matt, this piece is a constant reminder of the friendships forged and the serene beauty found in golf’s quiet moments.

Matt, as the keeper of "The M Tiger," is reminded daily of the joys the sport brings—both through solitary play and the community it creates. The painting is a nod to the countless stories and memories made among fellow golf enthusiasts.

Now, it's time for Matt to share his personal connection to "The M Tiger" and the bonds created through golf.

“I grew up and enjoying golf. It was my favorite thing to do throughout my childhood. As I grew older, Tiger Woods became the man he is today. It’s funny because I look back now and think about how much the greatest golfer of our generation impacted the game. Tiger Woods, is synonymous with golf and synonymous with one of the greatest athletes that will ever experience and a generation with likes of Wayne Gretzky of Tom Brady and Babe Ruth. There are two things about golf that I think about when I think about this game when is Tiger Woods and the other is the greatest golf tournament that we will experience the greatest major that we experience in this part this painting makes me think of those things it is truly a cherish thing that we get to see experience and I’m very lucky that my friend Zikki made this painting for me because he knows how much my love of the game is and he knows how much I appreciate greatness and the greatest of all time.”
— Matthew Lewis