Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina has ventured into the beauty and fashion industry with the launch of Skinly, a lifestyle brand offering skincare, fashion and spa services.
The business, unveiled at Bonsai Villa in Gigiri, Nairobi, has already employed six young people under the age of 25, with more opportunities expected as it grows.
Skinly offers skincare products for different skin types, facial analysis, beauty therapy, manicures and pedicures. Its fashion line includes shoes, dresses, hats and fascinators.
Maina said the business grew out of her interests in skincare and fashion, which she wanted to bring together under one brand.
“I love skincare, and I love fashion. I wanted to bring these interests together under one brand, something that speaks to women and meets their lifestyle needs,” she said.
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She said she also wanted to create a space where women could access different services while taking time for themselves.
“Women care about their skin and how it looks and feels. For many, skincare is an important part of how they care for themselves and present themselves to the world,” she said.
The business uses pink and pastel colours in its design, with Maina saying she wanted to create an environment where women could relax, shop and access personal care services.
She said the venture was also an opportunity to create jobs, particularly for young people, through entrepreneurship.
Maina launched the business amid economic uncertainty and ahead of the 2027 General Election, saying she did not want to postpone her plans while waiting for more favourable conditions.
“I believe in Kenya, and I believe in our institutions. I want this launch to demonstrate that we can continue investing, building businesses and creating opportunities even during uncertain times,” she said.
She added that leaders could encourage investment by demonstrating that it was possible to serve in public office while pursuing business interests.
“If I do not take this step now, I might find myself waiting another five or ten years for the ‘right’ time. I believe this is the time to begin. There is no perfect time,” she said.
Maina has also returned to music with the reggae single “Hit and Run”, a love song about self-serving partners.
She previously recorded under the name Carola Jayne while associated with Grandpa Records during her university years.
She is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya, runs Njeri Maina Law Advocates and serves as Kirinyaga Woman Representative in the National Assembly.