Nkatha K: From coffee hawker to chic thrift queen

Nkatha K: From coffee hawker to chic thrift queen (Photo: Nkatha_K/ Instagram)

Maureen Nkatha aka Nkatha K is an online content creator and an entrepreneur with a thriving clothing brand. She shares her campus journey from selling coffee on Nakuru streets to building a successful second-hand clothes empire after being laid off from an internship.

Briefly, who is Nkatha K?

I’m a daughter, sister, friend, and woman whose love for sharing has created a beautiful online community.

Where and what did you study in campus?

I studied Food Science and Technology at Egerton University, Njoro, Nakuru County.

What was your favourite and least favourite unit?

I loved Biotechnology and Quality Analysis/Assurance. My least favourite was Analytical Chemistry—or Chemistry in general.

Who was your best lecturer?

Mr Faraj—may his soul rest in peace. He was so kind, and I’ll always remember how he helped many of my coursemates and me secure food science jobs and internships.

Are you currently working in the field you studied? If not, why?

No, I’m not. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I was laid off from my internship, where I had hoped to be absorbed as an employee. So, I focused on my thrift business, which has since become my full-time job.

How would you describe your campus life?

It was a very chilled time in my life. Honestly, I was just focused on my studies and nothing else.

How did you make money while on campus?

In my second year, I started selling bracelets. In my third year, I wasn’t selling much, but by my fourth year, I was hawking coffee on the streets of Nakuru town, and selling thrift clothes to friends and course mates.

What was dating like on campus?

(Laughs) In my second year, I liked this one guy, but he moved to another country, so it was short-lived. I wouldn’t even qualify it as dating.

What’s your opinion on campus relationships?

I think they’re alright and can blossom into something beautiful. Two of my best friends are married to partners they met in campus, which speaks volumes about their potential.

Where did you hang out on weekends?

I spent most weekends at the mtush (thrift) markets in Nakuru town or my best friend’s house, as they lived nearby.

How did you spend your free time?

I was mostly online watching vlogs or movies, or I was busy making money. I also used to do hair on the side back in campus!

Are there any classmates you’ll never forget?

All of them! Our class had about 35 members, and I can confidently say I remember each one.

How did you start your thrifting business?

I always dressed well—if I may say so myself—and the compliments I received gave me the idea. I decided to actualise it and turn it into a business.

What challenges have you faced in your business so far?

The Covid-19 period was tough since clothes weren’t coming into the country, making it hard to find good thrift pieces. Balancing thrift sales, designing our “Made in Kenya” pieces, and managing personal projects were also challenging before I hired somebody to help.

How do you balance content creation and running your thrift business?

Hiring people who love Kairetu’s Apparel as much as I do has been a game-changer. It has allowed me to focus on creating content and delivering for other brands.

What’s your view on the future of the fashion industry in Kenya? What are your plans for Kairetu’s Apparel?

I see talented designers emerging and gaining global recognition. I’m hopeful for more diverse designs in the ‘Made in Kenya’ space, rather than repetitive styles. I plan to bring innovation into the industry, cater to a diverse market, and focus on sustainability.

Any advice for young people or aspiring thrift entrepreneurs?

It’s simple, just start. Be the best at what you do, focus on building a community, and the sales will follow.