This archive report was first published on 21 August 2019.
Elspeth Fawcett's entrepreneurial journey began when her baby girl became fixated on playing with keys. The obsession was so intense that it led to a Sh50,000 bill for having the car towed and a new car key sorted. Determined to find a solution, Elspeth decided to make her own metal toy keys, launching Yummikeys, a business that would eventually generate Sh25 million in turnover.
Published on August 21, 2019, Elspeth's story is a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance. She emphasizes that the toys are chemical and toxin-free, with no lead, BPA, or phthalates, and are completely recyclable.
After months of perfecting the product design, Elspeth used her life insurance savings to fund her first stock order of 500 units. She recalls: 'This was pretty terrifying and felt like a huge investment for us.' Despite the challenges, Elspeth's hard work has paid off, with the business now eligible for government grants.
As a mother of three, Elspeth has had to juggle business with childcare. She admits that time pressure and small children have been the biggest challenges in getting Yummikeys off the ground. However, she remains optimistic, saying: 'It will be tiring and full on, but it will also be the best journey and you'll be amazed at what you can learn and the support you'll receive.'
