This archive report was first published on 15 September 2021.
From Unemployment to Entrepreneurship: Shally Akinyi's Journey to Zuri Nail Parlour ¶
Shally Akinyi, the owner of Zuri Nail Parlour, took a bold step towards entrepreneurship in February 2021, opening her business at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. With limited options after losing her job, Akinyi had to think outside the box for a means of survival.
Her journey to entrepreneurship began with a passion for beauty, which she pursued with a Bachelor's degree in business management. Akinyi had always dreamed of owning a salon or nail salon, and after losing her job in 2020, she decided to take the plunge and open Zuri Nail Parlour.
With an initial investment of Sh1.8 million, Akinyi was able to set up the infrastructure, secure the business premises, and purchase the necessary equipment. However, the business faced significant challenges in the first few months, with many people avoiding beauty spots due to concerns about the pandemic.
Despite these challenges, Akinyi remained committed to her vision and worked tirelessly to build a loyal clientele. She attributes her success to her focus on quality, customer service, and using high-quality products. Akinyi also emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's values and ensuring that customers receive the best possible service.
As for her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, Akinyi stresses the need to stay true to quality, keep accurate records, and take that first step towards realizing one's dream. With her determination and perseverance, Akinyi has built a successful business that continues to thrive in a competitive market.
