How one girl’s passion for bags is transforming her life immensely

MARIA KERUBO, 24, is a budding entrepreneur who besides being a political analyst has put her passion for bags to good use. She spoke to ROSE KWAMBOKA

GN: When did you discover you had great taste in bags?

It was after high school when I got enrolled in a college in Nairobi. I would go to college with a handbag and return home with my items in a paper bag, having sold my bag. At times people would stop me in the streets or in the matatu just to compliment my bag. That is when it occurred to me that I could sell bags on the side.

GN: Where do you get your bags?

A friend used to bring them for me from the UK but I now buy them from Gikomba. I would go to Gikomba at 6am and sometimes got late for class.

GN: How did you manage to continue the business even after you joined Moi University in Eldoret?

It was difficult but I was determined because I had seen the potential in the business. I travel to Nairobi over the weekends to buy the bags and go back in time for class. Furthermore, the market in Eldoret is untapped and there is great potential. Thanks to my friends who have been great marketers of my business, I was able to get loyal clientele among college mates, lecturers and the general neighbourhood of Moi University.

GN: What are you studying?

I am pursuing an undergraduate degree in Political Science. I look forward to being a political analyst someday even as I thrive in my business.

GN: How do you manage school and business?

I love and have a passion for what I do so I find a way to balance and do well in both, although it is not easy. I travel to Nairobi when it was absolutely necessary.

GN: What other challenges do you face?

My greatest challenge is travelling. Sometimes I have to postpone my travels because of CATS, assignments and classwork. Other times I send friends to get me the bags, which is risky because their tastes sometimes do not match mine.

The orders are sometimes so many that I cannot meet them because I lack sufficient capital. I also have a baby who I have to take care of, so my life sometimes gets very hectic.

GN: What do you love most about your business?

I love the fact that everyday is a learning experience. Customers are always different and have unique tastes. I can say I am ten times better in terms of experience than when I sold my first bag.

GN: What advice would you give to young people intending to venture into self-employment?

The will to succeed comes from within. Do not sit and wait for someone to do stuff for you. Get up and do something!