Big Kev's battle with recurring tumour

Big Kev at past events. A former  rapper, the entrepreneur owns one of the leading events organising firms in Kenya. [PhotoS:  COURTESY]

By SHIRLEY GENGA

The last time we heard about you was in 2011 after undergoing an operation in India… how is the going?

I have been diagnosed with another tumour again, I am preparing to return to India for another operation.

What went through your mind when you found this out?

This is the third time it’s happening. The first time was in 2010 and I went under the knife to extract it locally. Thirteen months down the line in 2011, following a series of migraines, I discovered the tumour had reappeared and so I left for India for a cyber knife radio surgery. 

What’s cyber knife radio surgery?

This is precision treatment performed by a robot and can be said to be a scientifically advanced offshoot of radiotherapy.

 Sad… but how are you handling the news?

It is unfortunate, but I am leaving  everything to God. The last time I flew to India I hoped it would never happen again but here I am. When you experience something like this, it makes you very aware of the time you have; I never plan for tomorrows, I try and live today to the best of my abilities. I was  to begin my MBA at USIU later in the year, but with the new diagnosis, the plan changes but I am trusting in God — I will soon be healed. This is not a time to wallow in self pity, it would not help anyone, not even me. I have to be strong for those who rely on me.

Your events company, Tru Blaq, is second to none. You have managed to create an impressive business empire, but back in the day, you were a rapper, how did you do this?

As a young boy, I was always interested in all things art. I was good at drawing and enjoyed music and acting. I went to Kilimani Primary and St Mary’s High School where my talent was nurtured.

I formed my first company — Shilton Entertainment with Big Ted, Leakey Odera and Dickson Ngari in 1998. I then joined USIU in 2000 for a degree in Administration and Management. While in campus, I did events and was also the chairman of the rugby union. I then joined Capital FM where I worked from 2001 to 2002. I was the radio host for Ethnic Fusion and also created the events department. After I left, I decided to start my own business. True Blaq was born in 2002.

What are some of the campaigns your company has been involved in?

Youth Fund launch, Tusker Safari Sevens, Don’t Drink and Drive campaign, Dance Snapp launch, Stanchart Marathon, Miss Kenya  franchise, Smirnoff Experience, the launch of Kencell to Celtel to Zain to Airtel, we have also undertaken projects with Samsung, Nokia, Multichoice Idols, EABL’s Project Fame and Pilsner Mfalme, the Vijana Tugutuke campaign and the Jaza Lorry campaign to name a few.

You were a member of a rap group… what happened to it?

It was known as the Christian Rap Community. Circuit, SOG and Big Ted were some of the members. We were the first local Christian rap group; we were on a mission to transform the industry, which was so rigid. We caused a lot of change and stirred the gospel industry. We were very radical, but at the same time preaching the gospel. But you know life happened and we all went our separate ways.

Do you still rap?

I am lucky enough to have the opportunity to be able to buy myself studio equipment and, over the years, I have recorded two albums and whenever I feel the urge, I go to the studio and rap. Rap is something that will always be a part of me.

You influenced the local gospel music scene, paving the way for Rufftone, Esther Wahome and many extroverted Christian musicians, what was the inspiration back then?

We were Christian artistes, but very radical and not everyone agreed with what we were doing. We, however, managed to change the gospel scene — you can still see the effects today.

What are your plans for Tru Blaq entertainment?

I hope it will be the biggest experiential marketing company in East Africa. In the next five years, I hope to have generated enough experience and contacts to cross over the borders. I currently have my fingers on customised vehicles, real estate, farming and the hotel industry to help push my dream.

Last year, you were part of Martha Karua’s campaign team for presidency, what was it about her that made you decide to back her?

I supported her because I believed she was the best person to deliver the Kenyan dream. By the time I left the campaign trail because of illness, she was third in ratings. Also, we worked hard on social media, she had 40,000 Twitter followers and 200,000 Facebook likes.

You have a daughter. Tell us about her and what you love most about being a father.

My daughter Shana, is the best thing that ever happened to me. What I love most about children is that they never judge. We all struggle with acceptance in one way or the other, but when I look at my daughter, I know that I am accepted just as I am.

What is the most important lesson you want to impart on Shana as a father?

To believe in God and in herself. I want her to define herself and not wait for the world, or other people to put her in a box and define her.

You have been married to your wife Tracy Kamene Ombajo since 2005, what was it about her that made you know she was the one you wanted to spend the rest of your life with?

The fact that she openly loved God. That was what stood out most about her.

A while back, your marriage went through a rough patch but you overcame that and you are now stronger than ever.What advice can you give to couples going through a rough time?

 Although we were friends for a long time, we courted for only six months. We assumed we would have time to know each better after the marriage, but this was not to be. We got pregnant in the first days of our marriage. My advice to couples is to take time to know each other, to work hard on building a healthy relationship, and build their marriage foundation on God; after all, He is the creator of marriage. Also, it is important for those who are married to always support each other’s dreams.

How do you balance your marriage and family life?

I spend a lot of time at home, I do not drink or smoke. We all love to hang out at home and watch movies. We also ensure we spend every weekend as family and do things that we all love.

What does Big Kev do for fun?

I love customised cars and bikes. I buy cars and bikes, then customise and restructure them as a hobby.

How many cars and bikes do you have?

I cannot tell you how many cars I own (smiles). What I will tell you is that I used to own five bikes, but I gave out two, sold another two, now I have one. Because of my health condition, I cannot ride bikes like I once did.

Closing word?

Every single day is a gift. Every day there is something to celebrate, but only if you are willing to take time and look for it. Sometimes we go through life without seeing things we can celebrate because we never sit back and look.