Where and what did you study at university or college?
I am currently studying at Daystar University. Before that, I pursued a diploma at the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC).
What was your favourite and most challenging unit on campus?
My favourite unit was Radio Production, which is where my passion really thrived. My most challenging unit was Media Ethics. It was quite intense, and I honestly do not know how I managed to pass it.
Who was your best and worst lecturer?
Madam Josephine from KIMC was incredible. Even today, when I visit, I really enjoy our conversations. She had a lasting impact on me. I do not think I had a worst lecturer. I was a bit of a teacher’s pet, to be honest (laughs). Even now at Daystar, I get along well with my lecturers. I think it helps that I am older and perhaps, better understand the learning environment.
Are you currently pracitising what you studied?
I used to, as I studied radio programme production and worked in radio for some time. However, I have since transitioned into full-time content creation, which I did not formally study, but have grown to love deeply.
Why did you quit radio? What led to that decision, and what’s next for you?
I loved radio; it was one of my biggest childhood dreams. However, I also have other ambitions, and I reached a point where I wanted to pursue them more intentionally. I decided to focus on my love for travel content creation. I am not someone who multitasks effectively. So I chose to give all my energy to content creation. I create content while travelling, which I truly enjoy. I have just returned from an East African tour covering Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania.
How was campus life?
It was good, but when you are younger, you are still figuring yourself out. There are relationships, career pressures and the struggle to break into the industry. It was not easy, but it was also a beautiful time. I met amazing people who shaped my journey.
How did you make money while on campus?
I did voice-overs for both audio and visual content, especially adverts. I also attended acting auditions, particularly at KIMC, where there were many opportunities. Sometimes I would get small roles as an extra and earn between Sh1,000 and Sh2,000.
How was your dating life on campus?
It was very interesting and quite chaotic (laughs). Being young in relationships teaches you a lot about yourself. I am someone who loves love, but I got my fair share of dust. I mean, why would I leave South B in the middle of the night to go looking for someone’s child in Murang’a? It was just crazy.
What do you think about campus relationships?
I do not have a fixed opinion. Some people meet their partners on campus and go on to build lasting relationships, even marriage. Others are simply exploring and learning about themselves. It really depends on the individual.
Where did you spend your weekends while on campus?
I spent a lot of time at the Kenya National Theatre (KNT) because I was interested in acting and wanted to break into the industry. Otherwise, I would be at home or at my aunt’s place eating sausages.
What did you do with your free time?
I would watch Bollywood films in my room. There was also a time when my friends and I would go to Homeboyz Radio on weekends, looking for opportunities. I was never really into clubbing, so I stayed away from that scene.
Which classmates will you never forget?
Mukami Muthoga and James Kero. We hustled together and shared a strong friendship. Those were meaningful connections, and I truly appreciate them.
Talk to us about your radio journey and how you rose to a morning show presenter at Kiss 100.
After completing school in 2016, I started at Ghetto FM as a radio presenter, mainly for experience, as I was not being paid. I moved around quite a bit, working in different stations, including in Kisumu, and even travelling to Dar es Salaam in search of opportunities. I spent six years hustling in radio. I also worked at Nation FM and Family Radio. When Radio Africa announced openings for presenters, I was already tired of finding a job. A friend encouraged me to apply, saying I had nothing to lose. I did, and they called me. When they called, it was on April Fool’s Day, so I thought it was a prank. At the time, I was planning to move to Namibia to start a YouTube channel. I was also working as a customer service agent. That call changed everything and marked a turning point in my career.
What mistakes do you see young people making in the industry?
One of the biggest mistakes is giving up too easily. The media industry requires passion, hunger and persistence. Many young people try a little and stop when things do not work out immediately. You have to keep showing up. My advice is simple: never give up. It may sound cliché, but it is true.
What moment in your life changed your perspective and influenced your decisions?
Losing my mother in 2014 changed everything. It made me realise how fragile life is. Before that, I think I was somewhat oblivious to reality. Her passing pushed me to live more boldly and intentionally.
What does success mean to you?
Success, for me, is fulfilment. It is about achieving my dreams and feeling content with my life. I also dream of travelling the world and giving my family a comfortable life. I want my younger brother to have access to the best opportunities and succeed in his own way. I also envision a peaceful life, perhaps a beach house in Kilifi and a Jeep Wrangler. That would be success for me.
What would you tell your campus self?
Relax and trust the process. Everything works out in the end. I used to be very anxious about the future and often made rushed decisions. With time, I have learnt that things fall into place.
Final word for young people?
If you want something, decide and pursue it wholeheartedly. Do not let anxiety hold you back. Stay focused, be patient and trust your journey.