Big dreamer juggles poultry keeping, IT and movie store

Who is Erick Mukundi Murithi?

I am a 23-year-old man from Embu County. I am a firm believer in accomplishing my dreams and desires, and thus work tirelessly towards the fulfilment of my goals.

How do you start your day?

My day starts at 6am. I have taught myself to say a word of prayer every morning after waking up.

What is your work about?

I am a jack of all trades with multiple businesses.

I start the day at my chicken coop in my compound, and ensure the birds have adequate food and water. After this, I leave for my movie store in Embu town. I am also an information technology technician and make time during the day to visit various schools to market school management systems, or supply the same to institutions that have not found a supplier for these products.

What do you consider your After 5 business?

My movie business. I am a licensed businessman selling and delivering entertainment videos, such as computer games and movies, to clients.

How did you get started in business?

I realised my passion in business when I was a second-year student at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). After graduating, I decided to go into business and raised my initial capital from distributing computers from Nairobi to schools in Embu. My family has also given me a lot of moral and financial support.

I wanted to get into the entertainment field, so I ventured into movies, computer games and Play Station accessories. My business did well, so I diversified into rearing broiler chicken.

Rearing poultry is very interesting and it is fascinating to see day-old chicks grow into chicken, which means more money. I have also seen this venture do well since I started with 150 chicken and I now have about 300. I want to continue expanding — business is all about expanding.

Who are the key clients for your businesses?

For the entertainment store, my clients are mainly the young generation. For the poultry business, I target big and small hotels within and outside Embu. I go after secondary schools and private boarding schools for the school management systems. I market my products through networking, use of business cards and client referrals.

What are your biggest challenges?

The greatest challenge has been managing the different ventures. Also, my county has been undergoing political turmoil that has really derailed development and affected businesses. Finding and retaining a market has also become a challenge, forcing me to keep rebranding my products to keep up with the standards of my competitors.

The biggest lesson you have learnt?

That hard work is actually the key to success; it helps you fulfil your goals.

Where do you see yourself in the next few years?

Selling household products and interior décor items, as well as creating job opportunities for the youth.

What is your main inspiration?

Seeing people fulfil their dreams.

Parting shot?

Chase after your dreams relentlessly and do not let negativity get in the way of your desire to succeed. The buck stops with you.