Who is Joseph Styles? Kindly give us some insight.
I am a media personality, content creator and influencer with a deep love for entertainment, from radio and club hosting to crafting engaging brand content.
Beyond the spotlight, I am committed to inspiring others, staying true to my passions and creating experiences that bring people together. In short, I am someone who turns creativity into impact.
Where and what did you study at university/college?
I recently graduated from Strathmore University’s Digital Storytelling Masterclass. I also studied Communication and Public Relations.
Favourite and worst unit while on campus?
My favourite unit was Media Law; my least favourite was Freelance Writing.
Best and worst lecturer?
My best lecturer was Dr Stephen Macharia. Worst? (Laughs) Unataka I get into trouble?
Are you currently doing what you studied in campus?
Yes, I am. I am involved in many media-related projects.
How was campus life generally?
It had its ups and downs, especially juggling work and studies. It was tough working night shifts on Fridays, finishing work at 5am, rushing home to change, then making it to a 7am class. Uweh, it was intense. And don’t get me started on the school rules! (laughs).
How did you make money while on campus?
I have always been a hustler. I started before high school. My first venture was with my friends Jibril and DJ Tryce when we organised the Coachella Party at Skyllux Lounge.
The idea came after high school: “Why don’t we host a party and charge people Sh500?” DJ Tryce helped with the venue negotiations since he was our main link. The event didn’t perform well financially, but it was a valuable learning experience.
While at campus, I volunteered with an NGO earning Sh6,000 a month. I was also passionate about radio, which opened the door for me to lead Amnesty’s podcast, and that’s when things started looking up.
How was dating life during your time on campus?
I actually enjoyed it.
I met someone in my first year and we ended up dating for eight years until they recently moved abroad. COVID-19 happened while we were together, so we even quarantined as a couple, which brought us closer.
I always say I don’t know how to be single because I started dating at a young, but legal, age. (laughs)
What do you think of campus relationships?
They can be great if both partners are mature. They teach you a lot, but boundaries, focus and self-respect are key. If it helps you grow, stay; if it drains you, leave.
Where did you hang out on weekends?
Mostly at Tots near USIU, Alchemist, and various events. But you would also find me at The Mall grabbing food or watching a film. That was my usual vibe.
What did you do in your free time?
Watching movies, and lots of E! Entertainment.
Classmates you will never forget?
This is my chance to shout out Pierre (my manager), Kathy, Freddie, Ngala and Nimmo.
How did you get into radio?
I started radio in 2019. I had two interviews that Friday, one at KBC and another at an upcoming online station called Need Radio. Azeezah was the Head of Radio then.
When I walked in, she said, “Imagine you have Jay-Z in the studio.
How would you handle that interview?” I did my best, and three days later she called to say I had got the job. I ended up hosting the mid-morning Hit Parade show with Ms Blonde.
About a year later, we joined Emsta Radio, now Fresh M, where Azeezah and I co-hosted the Drive show from 3pm to 7pm.
You’re now involved in club hosting — tell us about the shift.
I actually started club hosting a while back at Blue Door in Westlands — big shout-out to DJ Tryce, because he’s the one who really brought me into the game.
Then, last year, I made a comeback and began hosting at Blackstars Lounge.
From there, things took off: I started getting gigs outside Nairobi