By SHIRLEY GENGA
VIOLETTE NDUKU WAMBUA is an entrepreneur who connects brands and people online. SHIRLEY GENGA found out what this involves.
Tell us about your work…
I run an online marketing company called Scarlett Media, where I market brands, personalities, products and services, as well as events and campaigns. This venture is a year old and was formed out of the need to bring organisations online and manage their presence. So far, we have managed several brands successfully, with great results. My job is to expand business portfolios and manage client accounts.
What else do you do?
I am also the founder of Networking in Heels, a women’s networking event that happens every three months in Nairobi. We are soon going to launch in other African capitals. We provide a forum for women from different sectors, whether business or corporate, to get together, network, exchange ideas and inspire each other with their life stories. We have held seven events since May 2011, with great response from the attendants and support from corporates. My job at Networking in Heels is to create partnerships, value propositions for business expansion and also market the event across all platforms.
What is your job history?
I did communication and marketing in various companies and non-governmental organisations from 2007 until last year, when I ventured into private business.
What do you like about your job?
I love the fact that it fits my personality. I feel I have found my sweet spot and it is not a struggle to go to work. I am not saying it is easy. It is just that I am excited to wake up in the morning and go about my business.
What challenges have you faced so far?
Just like every entrepreneur, I faced initial startup challenges. However, with hard work, strategic thinking and planning, I have overcome most of the challenges. I have been fortunate to have support from friends, family and business associates who have offered useful insights.
What are the highlights of your career so far?
I am excited to be the founder of Nairobi’s premier women-only networking cocktail for women in business and career, which will be two years old on May 9, when we will be holding the next event. Scarlett Media is also proud to have successfully managed Governor Evans Kidero’s social media campaign.
What and where did you study?
I studied for a Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resource Management at Catholic University of Eastern Africa and, finishing in 2009.
How do you think your degree has propelled you to your current position?
Education is very important. Nothing beats the discipline of the educational system and the exposure one gets at school. Sadly, many people go through school, but gain very little. It is, however, important to combine book smarts with street smarts.
You also give back to society; tell us about that…
I love giving back to society and as such I am a trustee of Pad Heaven, an outfit that seeks to reduce girl absenteeism from class during their menses. We provide sanitary towels and panties, and educate girls about menstruation to help them stay in school and embrace womanhood.
What do you do when you are not working?
I like hanging out with my friends and siblings. I also love dancing, taking road trips, going to parties and engaging in physical activities such as wall climbing and GP Karting. I am also into fine dining and love trying out new restaurants.
What are your future plans?
The future is in God’s hands, but I hope to extend my ventures and to be the next business mogul.
