Dr Jephnei Orina, an advocate of the High Court of Kenya, has successfully established an immigration law practice in the United States while pursuing a doctorate in law. His journey from Kisii County to running a firm in Boston reflects resilience and dedication.

Early Life and Education

Born and raised in Kisii, Orina attended St Charles Carolina Primary School and St Joseph School Rapogi for his secondary education. He graduated from Kisii University in 2018 with a Bachelor of Education (Arts) before moving to Nairobi to pursue his lifelong ambition of becoming a lawyer.

He enrolled at the University of Nairobi for a law degree and simultaneously pursued an MBA at Kisii University’s Nairobi campus. After graduating in 2021 and completing the Kenya School of Law, he was admitted as an advocate in 2023.

Transition to the United States

Shortly after, Orina relocated to the US to further his education, completing a Master of Laws at Northeastern University and enrolling for a PhD in Law at Suffolk University, expected to graduate in 2026. Financing his studies required significant sacrifices, including selling land and a car, taking student loans, and working up to 100 hours weekly at a care facility.

His initial days in America were challenging. Arriving at Boston’s Logan International Airport with no accommodation arranged, he spent nights sleeping in classrooms and at the airport before being hosted by a family connected through a former Airbnb guest.

Legal Career and Bar Admission

After completing his master’s degree, Orina sat for the Massachusetts bar exam, a rigorous test with a pass rate below 40% for first-time takers. Passing the exam in May 2025, he opened his own immigration law firm the following month.

Choosing immigration law allows him to represent clients nationwide while managing his doctoral studies, as the practice primarily involves paperwork rather than court appearances.

Connection to Kenya

Despite his success abroad, Orina remains deeply connected to Kenya. He actively follows local news, participates in politics and community development, and returns home about four times annually. He views his achievements in the US as a way to gain knowledge and experience to contribute to Kenya’s growth.

Orina’s story exemplifies determination and the pursuit of education and professional excellence, overcoming early hardships to build a career that bridges two continents.