Nzula Munyao is a popular, award-winning actor, formerly known as Kamene in the ‘Classmates’ show and currently appearing as Katunge in ‘Vitimbi’. She talks on how she juggles acting with managing her tour venture, Lodes Safaris.
Tell us a bit about yourself, both professionally and personally.
Professionally, I wear two hats that I deeply love: acting and entrepreneurship. As an actress, I find joy in telling stories that touch hearts and inspire others. Every role I play allows me to explore different aspects of life and connect with people on an emotional level. As the CEO of Lodes Safaris, an award-winning tour company based in Kenya, I get to share another passion of mine: travel. I love helping people discover the beauty of Kenya and beyond through unique and memorable experiences. Leading my team and seeing travellers fall in love with new places is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. Personally, away from the cameras and meetings, I’m a simple, down-to-earth person who enjoys laughter, good company, and quiet moments in nature. I am deeply family-oriented and draw strength from my faith. I believe in kindness, gratitude, and continuous growth, both as a woman and as a leader.
Share with us the story behind founding your tour venture.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved exploring new places, meeting people, and discovering the beauty and diversity the world has to offer. That passion for adventure eventually grew into something deeper—a calling. In 2022, I decided to turn that lifelong love of travel into something tangible. I saw an opportunity to do what I truly enjoy while helping others create lasting memories and, at the same time, earning a living from it. It felt like the perfect blend of passion and purpose. Starting Lodes Safaris wasn’t just about business for me. It was about sharing joy, connecting cultures, and helping people see the world through the same eyes of wonder that inspired me from the very beginning.
Why tourism? What drew you to this particular industry?
Tourism feels like home to me. Tourism is more than an industry; it’s a way to showcase the heart and soul of my country. I’m deeply passionate about promoting Kenya—our wildlife, our warm people, our breathtaking landscapes, and our rich traditions. There is so much magic here, and that’s why I love being part of Magical Kenya. Every trip I organise is a chance to show visitors that Kenya isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. Through tourism, I get to celebrate who we are, support local communities, and help the world see the beauty that makes Kenya truly magical.
It’s often said managing two demanding careers isn’t easy. How do you make it work?
When you truly love what you do, you find a way to make it work. Both careers, though different, are deeply connected by creativity and passion. Acting allows me to express emotions and tell stories that inspire, while tourism gives me the opportunity to create real-life stories through travel experiences. Both fuel my soul in different ways. Balancing the two comes down to discipline, careful planning, and staying true to my purpose. I’ve learned to manage my time wisely, surround myself with a supportive team, and give my best in every role I play, whether on set or while planning a dream safari.
What would you say has been your biggest milestone so far?
One of my biggest milestones so far was winning the 2023 People’s Choice Award as Tour Agent of the Year. That recognition meant so much because it came in our very first year of operation, proving that passion, hard work, consistency, and faith really do pay off. From the very start, Lodes Safaris began attracting international clients—a dream that quickly became reality. It was humbling to see travellers from across the world choosing to experience Kenya with us.
How has your celebrity status influenced your business?
My public profile has played a significant role in growing Lodes Safaris. Being in the public eye as an actress has helped me build trust and visibility for the brand. My platform has become a bridge between my passion for storytelling and my love for travel. People who know me from the screen also get to see the real me—someone who genuinely loves adventure, culture, and connection. That authenticity has drawn many clients. At the end of the day, my public profile isn’t just about fame—it’s about using my voice and visibility to inspire others to explore, to travel, and to witness the magic of Kenya for themselves.
What is your parting shot for aspiring entrepreneurs and dreamers?
If I can turn my love for adventure into a business that touches lives, you can turn your passion into something beautiful too. Adventure awaits you—in life, in business, and in every dream you dare to pursue.