A highly educated Kenyan man with a PhD in Nanochemistry has sparked widespread discussion online after making the bold decision to quit his job in Scotland and become a full-time stay-at-home father.
David Opar, a father of two, shared his emotional journey in a viral TikTok video that has since attracted thousands of reactions across social media platforms. After four and a half years in a demanding professional role, he said the pressures of work, combined with personal tragedy, forced him to reassess what truly matters in life.
Opar revealed that the turning point came after the painful loss of his brother, who died from blood clots in the lungs. The tragedy deeply affected him, especially because he had previously suffered a similar health scare while pushing through work despite serious symptoms. He said that experience alone made him question the culture of overwork and sacrifice often expected in high-level careers.
According to his account, workplace challenges continued even after his return to normal duties. He requested reduced working hours after the birth of his second child, but the company reportedly declined, insisting on full-time commitment. A tense HR meeting followed, which he described as emotionally draining and discouraging.
Faced with mounting stress, limited family support abroad, and growing responsibilities at home, Opar made the life-changing decision to step away from formal employment. He now plans to focus on raising his children while exploring entrepreneurship and building his own source of income.
His story has triggered mixed reactions online. While many praise him for prioritizing mental health and family, others argue that leaving a stable academic career is a risky move.
Still, Opar insists the decision was not about escape but about freedom—the freedom to be present for his children, support his family, and rebuild life on his own terms. His journey continues to fuel conversations about work-life balance, masculinity, and the pressures faced by modern parents living abroad.