What is Prini kids spa? 

This is where lifestyle meets edutainment. We have a spa section for kids that does pedicure, the barbershop and salon services. At the same time, we have a smart space with entertainment and STEAME activities (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics and Entrepreneurship).

How did the idea come about?

I love being with children. I feel that children provide one with a safe space without societal judgement. The big question I had was, how was I going to accomplish my purpose and passion and monetise it at the same time? This was how Prini came to be.

What was the first action that you took that turned your dream into reality? 

I created a Vision Board around my three children.

What does it mean to you to be an entrepreneur?  

It means being limitless, challenging yourself as a woman, surviving and striving to achieve whatever you put your mind to. An entrepreneur is all I have been from a very young age; I used to manage my parents’ shop at a small town called Kagio since my primary school days. In short, all the things that I now apply in my business I learnt from my parents’ business. Working in their shop for all that long got me to know the pitfalls to avoid and how to conquer moments of doubt that often stifle or trip ideas.

What was the turning point for your business? 

When I was able to satisfy my clients. Parents who have brought their children into our space have always had something positive to say, and not only come back but also give referrals to other parents. This has seen us tap clients and enabled us to introduce a membership card.

Talking of membership, what benefits does it come with? 

You not only get a Prini package (a book, t-shirt, wristband) when you enrol but the child also gets free services twice a month. They also learn from the STEAME section as well as come for the play sessions.

Why are you so passionate about kids?  

As women, we think having children is automatic. For those who have struggled with bringing a life into this world, they know very well that having children is everything, and that is where my passion for children started after my struggle to get my children.

What is that many people don’t know about the kid’s spa?  

That a parent can leave their child here and go about their business and come pick up the child later. It’s also a SMART space for relaxing kids’ bodies and also learning.

What is it that you did that was a game-changer for your business?

The expansion of the SMART space to teach kids, STEAME (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics and Entrepreneurship).

If you were to convince new clients who don’t buy the idea of treating kids, what would you tell them? 

Exposing children will help build their imagination to solve the world problems our generation will be leaving them with. For this to happen, the kids require a safe and smart space to think and become limitless.

What age bracket are you targeting?

From one to 12.

What precaution measures do you take when handling the kids?

Safety is key and at any given point, we ensure a caregiver is watching the kids closely whether playing or just within the premises.

What are the challenges of this kind of business?

You must be able to understand each child and treat them in a way that makes him or her feel special. This takes time.

What do you love most about this business? 

There’s nothing more satisfying as putting smiles on the kids’ faces, and the positive reviews from parents. 

Children can be stubborn. How do you deal with those ones. And what are your charges?

Impact is what we put on the forefront. We don’t focus on time but output. Our charges are the standard charges that any ordinary spa would charge. They range between Sh1,500-5,000.

What are some of the lessons that have impacted the way you conduct your business?

To deal with kids effectively, you have to bring yourself down to their level and understand the world from their perspective.

What’s your advice for someone who wants to venture into business?  

Most of us have a “me too business idea” - we venture into business without considering so many other factors.