From heartbreak to headlines: Naomi Wasike's viral triumph

Who is Naomi Wasike?

I’m a 28-year-old lady, currently a tutor—some call me a college lecturer at a Polytechnic here in Kenya. I consider myself jovial and cheerful, but ultimately, I would say I’m simply a person doing life, how it’s meant to be lived, not necessarily following how books or people have prescribed it. I’m also really into cartoons and animations, which is something I enjoy doing during my free time.

Where and what did you study in campus?

I attended the University of Kabianga, where I studied Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Hospitality Management.

What was favourite or worst unit while on campus?

My worst unit was definitely financial accounting. I hated it with a passion. You see, I didn’t study business in high school, so when I got to campus and realised I had to balance ledgers and deal with accounts, I really struggled. I didn’t like accounting at all.

Best/Worst lecture?

I honestly can’t pinpoint a best or worst lecture. I didn’t have any particular stand-out moments, so nothing really comes to mind.

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Are you currently doing what you studied in school, if no, why?

Yes. I’m a trainer in hospitality and tourism, specialising in food and beverage management, catering, accommodation, and tourism. I’m really grateful for this because, as we know, many people don’t end up working in the fields they studied for.

A post shared by Niomi Madregal (@naomiwasike)

How was campus life generally?

In my first and second years, campus life was a bit tough, but by the time I reached my third and fourth years, things got easier. I wouldn’t say it was always smooth, but it wasn’t that hard either. The first two years were challenging, but I had a small bedsitter by third year, which made things more bearable.

How did you make money while on campus?

I ran a small business selling second-hand clothes. I would go to the market, buy tops and trousers, and then sell them at school.

How was dating on campus?

I dated someone while in campus, and we continued our relationship after graduation, but eventually, we took different paths. We broke up, but the relationship was good while it lasted. He was my first boyfriend, and if things had been different, perhaps we would still be together today.

What do you think of campus relationships?

I think some campus relationships can turn out well. Some people end up together long after campus, and some even get married. So, I wouldn’t say campus relationships are bad at all—they can lead to something really good.

Where did you hang out on weekends?

Since I’m an introvert and our school was in quite a rural area, you’d often find me at a waterfall, which was about a kilometre from the school. I used to chill there on weekends. If I wasn’t there, you’d find me at home, watching anime or catching up on my cartoons.

What did you do with your free time?

I joined a Karate class once (chuckles) back in the day when I still had some extra energy! But mostly, I spent my free time watching anime and reading manga (a style of Japanese comic books and graphic novels). My life pretty much revolves around anime; I absolutely love it!

or Classmates you will never forget?get?

I’ll never forget two classmates. One was a guy who was a very good friend. We weren’t best friends, but we were close. The other is a lady I’m still in touch with to this day. We ended up working near each other, so we meet often.

T Tell us a bit about your idea of creating content dressed as an elderly woman. How did the character come about?

So, in 2022, I was in a stable relationship—or so I thought. We were having fun, going out, and everything seemed great. But then one day, he just woke up and said he didn’t want to be with me anymore. I fell into depression, spent almost three months crying, overeating, and gaining weight. By 2023, I realised I shouldn’t stress over someone who wasn’t even paying attention to me. So, I decided to try something new to get my mind off it. That’s when the idea to create content was born. One day, while shooting some content, I decided to try on a suit and dance in it. I posted the video, and to my surprise, it went viral, with around a million views. People in the comments section encouraged me to embrace the character and make it my trademark. So, I stuck with it, and it helped me let go of the past.

How do you relate with your students and ensure separation between class work and social media?

My students have a lot of respect for me. When we’re in class, we maintain a professional distance, and I make sure not to mix my personal life with my work. You’ll never see me shooting content at school because I respect my job and my workplace. I’ve never told anyone where I work, and I prefer to keep it that way. I’ve seen some social media speculations about my workplace, but I’ve never confirmed or denied anything. I maintain professionalism, and content creation is just a part-time passion for me.

What are some of the challenges you have faced creating content online and being in class instilling knowledge?

One challenge I’ve faced is with some colleagues. Since I’m among the younger staff, I get some funny looks and questions like, “How can you do that? Why would you do that?” But my students don’t mind. They actually respect my side hustle. Content creation for me is natural, though. My dance routines and steps come easily, so I don’t spend much time shooting content—it usually takes just about five to 10 minutes.

What does the future of content creation look like for you? Do you plan to diversify to other characters or even leave class and pursue it full-time?

I wouldn’t say I plan to pursue content creation full-time, but if I ever do, everyone will know. I’ve been practising as a tutor for nearly five years now, and I find it very fulfilling. I enjoy it, and it’s hard to imagine leaving that behind. For now, content creation is a part-time passion, and I’m happy with the balance I have.

Any final word to the youth out there and your students?

Follow your passions and never give up, even when you face setbacks. I started my page in 2023 with very few followers, a broken heart, and no idea where it would lead. But now, I’m able to earn something from it. To my students, always separate your work life from your personal life. Stay focused on your studies, and remember why you’re in school. Eventually, everything will work out if you stay dedicated.