Mixing customer service with a side hustle at 20

By CATHERINE NJERI

KENYA: At 20, Joan Wacheke Muthaiga, is a customer relations officer at an IT company and manages her own boutique. She is also an international relations student.

Who is Joan Muthaiga?

I am a young lady with a passion to better my life and that of my family by exploiting my entrepreneurial skills at a young age. I am a staunch believer that the time to shape my future is today.

How do you start your day?

My day starts at 4am. I study for an hour and a half before getting ready to leave for the gym. I work out from 6am and leave for work at 8am.

What do you do during the day?  

I work as a part-time customer service attendant and earn around Sh35,000 per month. This job keeps me on my toes and gives me a few coins to spend even when my business is not doing too well. I spend my afternoons studying for my undergraduate degree at the University of Nairobi. Once I’m done with school, I deliver clothes and jewellery that clients have ordered from my boutique. This business can give me as much as Sh50,000 a month, which I mainly use to restock my collection.

I’m usually home by 9.30pm and watch TV to unwind. I love my sleep, so I’m usually in bed by 11pm.

How do you get items for your boutique?

I buy clothes and jewellery in bulk and sell them to my schoolmates, family, friends and clients. I buy my goods from anywhere, but mostly shop online on sites like eBay, BooHoo, Zara and Misguided. Items from these sites are unique and affordable; I’m able to give my customers things they would otherwise find overly expensive locally.

How did you start out?

I started by buying my own stuff, and then I realised that I could make a little extra cash if I sold some of these things to my classmates. They were soon asking for more, so I started shipping in more.

How are you able to juggle your responsibilities?

I allocate each one the time and attention required. But it is sometimes difficult to attend to my customers, especially when I have exams, though I strive to deliver no matter what.

What is the biggest lesson you have learnt so far?

Never give up on your dream. Also, many people want a good life and to succeed, but it takes more than just saying — it requires doing and trusting God and being patient.

What is your biggest challenge?

Lacking the financial muscle to support or expand my business. Also, with shopping online, goods ordered can take quite some time to get to you, and this might look bad for business.

What is your biggest dream?

To become an ambassador representing Kenya and a successful entrepreneur on the side. Fashion for me will always be in the frontline because I love looking good. I hope to someday have my own shoes and clothing line.