Who is Solo? Give us a brief description.

I am an easy-going, vibrant guy who runs errands in Nairobi, mainly around Gikomba.

Where and what did you study at university?

I studied Business Administration at the Technical University of Kenya.

Your favourite and worst course units?

My favourite was Microeconomics, but my worst had to be Basic Mathematics.

Best and worst lecturers?

My best lecturer was Madam Linsey. I never missed her classes. She connected with us so well. She felt like a mother figure to me and my friend Mansa. She even became our first client. We ran all her errands.

Are you currently doing what you studied?

Yes, though not in the traditional sense. I specialised in the marketing option, and now, as a digital content creator and entrepreneur, I use social media to market both my services and other brands.

How was campus life in general?

'Kuinama' (Missing meals) was constant, but we had fun. It wasn't just me suffering (laughs). Campus helped with networking, building friendships, and forming communities.

How did you make money while on campus?

I used to source earrings and lipsticks from Dubois Road and hawk them from one class to another.

How was dating on campus?

'Mchezo wa town'. I wasn't too focused on dating back then.

Thoughts on campus relationships?

Some work, some don't. But I would say, give love a chance. You never know. I have seen heartbreaks too. Most students don't really know what they want, but that is life.

Where did you hang out on weekends?

I lived in Umoja, and I didn't have the funds to party or join friends to hang out, so you would find me at a local joint watching the English Premier League or taking long walks from Umoja Market to B-centre and back, or probably at home figuring out where to get Sh50 for supper.

How did you spend your free time?

Watching the English Premier League and acting or rehearsing at the school theatre club. It was called "Basement"

Classmates you'll never forget?

Mansa, my best friend. He is the greatest thing campus gave me.

How did the Gikomba errand business start?

We had started an errand business in Nairobi's CBD. One day, our friend Ms Katunga asked if we could take her to Gikomba to shop for clothes. We said yes, and asked if we could film the experience for social media. She agreed. We shopped, filmed, and posted it on TikTok, and boom! The video went viral. The calls didn't stop. It felt like working in a call centre. That is how the business started.

What challenges have you faced so far?

Some clients come glued to a specific design or inspiration and are unwilling to explore other options. But with mtumba (second-hand clothing), you need to be flexible. No two bales are ever the same. Also, the weather is a big factor. On rainy days, the open-air market slows down significantly.

What have you learnt about handling difficult clients?

Patience is key. You must extend grace, stay calm, and be professional no matter what. Customer service determines whether they will return or refer others. If you lose your temper or speak rudely, that's it. You have killed your brand. One mistake can destroy an entire referral chain. I always pray for more patience.

What does the future hold? Will we still find you doing this in five years?

I am going with the flow. I don't want to rush the process. I have big dreams for Kyeva Errands-expanding globally and diversifying content. I am growing slowly and loving the journey. Time will tell.

Any final words for young people seeking employment?

Gone are the days of waiting for formal jobs. Opportunities are out there. You just have to open your mind. Don't be picky. Learn a trade: plumbing, mechanics, masonry, beauty therapy, then go out and do it with pride. People will talk, but let them. Own your hustle.