DJ Pierra Makena, a trailblazer in Kenya’s entertainment scene, has spent nearly two decades defying expectations and carving her own path.
At 43, the DJ, actress, and now reality TV star remains a force of nature, driven by a clear vision and an unshakable belief in herself.
Reflecting on her 15-year career milestone last December, Makena attributes her success to her relentless pursuit of her goals, undeterred by obstacles or opinions.
“If I believe in something, I go for it, no matter how tough it gets,” she says.
Recently, Makena stepped into new territory with a role on The Mommy Club NBO, a reality show that piqued her interest as a fresh challenge.
“I’ve done film and TV, but never reality show,” she explains. “It felt like the perfect opportunity to try something new.”
Balancing the spotlight with motherhood, however, is no small feat. As a single mother to her daughter Ricca, Makena is fiercely protective yet encourages her child’s independence.
“I’m the mom who panics when she climbs a table,” she admits, “but I also let her find herself.”
Motherhood, she adds, has taught her the hard truth about sleep or the lack thereof. “No one warns you that good sleep is gone forever,” she says.
Makena’s honesty extends to her views on societal pressures, particularly around marriage.
Unmarried at 43, she remains unmoved by external expectations. “Marriage must be right,” she insists.
“It’s not about society or impressing the neighbours. I’ll never marry for pressure.”
Having navigated her share of challenging relationships, she values commitment deeply and refuses to settle for less than the right partner. “I get everything a married person gets,” she says.
“I’m happy, and I’m unbothered.”
Her advice to women forging their own paths is clear, rely on yourself. “Believe in yourself, not in a man,” she urges. “You have to survive, no matter what.”
Despite her public persona, Makena reveals a surprising side that she is an introvert who cherishes quiet moments.
“If I wasn’t a public figure, I’d probably stay out of the spotlight entirely,” she confesses.
Yet, her vibrant career continues to draw attention, including a polite message from an international governor in her DMs which she admits it is rare since all the men who hits her up are the usual “thirst traps.”
“He was actually polite and such a gentleman. For once, it wasn’t the usual nonsense, which was a breath of fresh air.”