Jemimah Waceke Mwithiga from Kenya wins 2026 IAPA Au Pair of the Year Award

Sofia, Bulgaria, March 18, 2026 – The International Au Pair Association (IAPA) is delighted to announce Jemimah (Mimah) Waceke Mwithiga from Kenya as the winner of the prestigious 2026 IAPA Au Pair of the Year Award. This award recognizes au pairs who exemplify the spirit of cultural exchange, resilience, and dedication, and Mimah´s journey is a remarkable testament to these values.

Winner Jemimah Mwithiga and IAPA Managing Director Patricia Brunner

A Journey of Cultural Exchange and Growth

Jemimah´s au pair adventure began with Family Enevoldsen in Denmark, where she embraced a life that was entirely new to her. From adjusting to the cold Scandinavian climate to navigating a different lifestyle with a lot of freedom, Mimah approached every challenge with an open heart, braveness and a willingness to learn. Her commitment to cultural exchange was evident in her efforts to learn Danish, allowing her to connect more deeply with the family and the local community.

For the two children in her care, their beloved Mimah was more than an au pair: she became a beloved older sister with whom they could have fun, even share their secrets and at the dame time help her to learn the language. Her warmth, patience, and genuine care created a bond that transcended cultural differences, making her an integral part of the family. Her ability to blend into the family dynamic while sharing her own Kenyan traditions enriched everyone’s lives, embodying the true essence of the au pair program.

A Proud Moment in Sofia

At the WETM-IAC Conference in Sofia, Jemimah received the 2026 IAPA Au Pair of the Year Award from IAPA´s Managing Director Patricia Brunner in front of a moved audience.

The audience was touched by her winning video, which beautifully captured her au pair journey in Denmark and the deep impact she made on her host family and the lasting im

left to right: Patricia Brunner (IAPA), Karina Volff (Apairagent),Winner Jemimah Mwithiga, Enda Kelleher, SPRINTAX- sponsor of the Award evening

pression they left on her. In her emotional acceptance speech, Jemimah shared how the au pair program transformed her life, calling it “the best way to experience real cultural exchange.”

Her heartfelt words reminded everyone of the power of connection, understanding, and love that programs like this create across borders.

The placing agency, Aupairagent from Denmark, was also there to celebrate this special moment. The agency’s owner Karin Volff, who attended the ceremony, was visibly moved and proud of Jemimah´s remarkable achievement.

Jemimah´s former host family had sent a short congratulations video that was shown to and the audience. Once again they expressed how proud they are of her, how much she deserves the award and that they are looking forward to seeing her again soon.

Placing Agency:

Jemimah is now again a successful au pair in The Netherlands showing once more her adaptability to new environments and circumstances and her love for the program. She now learns Dutch and Italian is getting to know the Dutch way of life.

A Story to Inspire Us All

Jemimah´s journey is a powerful reminder of how the au pair program changes lives and brings cultures together. She has shown that cultural exchange is more than just adapting to a new place. It’s about building bridges, creating understanding, and forming bonds that last a lifetime. Her dedication, braveness, warmth, and resilience make her a true ambassador for the au pair community.

IAPA International Au Pair Association invites everyone to celebrate Jemimah´s remarkable achievement. Her story inspires au pairs, host families, agencies and all who believe in the power of cultural connection.

If you want to know more about Jemimah watch her winning video here on YouTube.