Phoina has carved a unique niche for herself. Her story, however, is not only about glitz and glamour but also about resilience, determination, and the strategic decisions that have fueled her rise. While she is a well-known figure in Kenya’s beauty industry, her recent statements about having a “sponsor” and how she manages her finances have stirred conversations about independence, ambition, and the true cost of success.
When Phoina began her career, she didn’t start with a blank slate. One of her most defining moments was working with Kenyan media personality Janet Mbugua. “When I started, the first celebrity I ever worked with was Janet Mbugua. She trusted my skills, which opened up many doors. Since then, I’ve worked with nearly every celebrity you can think of in the country,” Phoina reflects. That initial break with a trusted figure opened a floodgate of opportunities, positioning her at the forefront of the beauty industry.
Recently, Phoina joined the cast of Nai-Rich, a reality TV show that highlights the lives of influential Kenyans. For her, the decision to be part of the show was not a spur-of-the-moment choice but a strategic one. “Joining the Nai-Rich reality show was a calculated move for me. It provided a platform to highlight my journey in entrepreneurship and beauty innovation, allowing me to reach a wider audience.” As someone with a background in beauty and personal care, Phoina viewed the show as an opportunity to inspire others and share the lessons she’s learned throughout her career.
Still, the decision to put her personal life on public display didn’t come without hesitation. “I had concerns about exposing my personal life to the public, but this was a conscious decision,” she admits. However, the show allowed her to present her story as a self-made woman who built her brand from the ground up, even as the inevitable scrutiny of being in the public eye continued to build.
Phoina draws significant inspiration from global figures such as Kylie Jenner, who has revolutionized the beauty industry with her line, Kylie Cosmetics. Phoina notes, “I draw inspiration from Kylie Jenner, comparing myself to her because of my ambition to revolutionize the African beauty industry, much like how Kylie transformed global cosmetics and personal branding.” Much like Jenner, Phoina’s story is one of innovation and determination, with the added challenge of expanding her business within Africa’s unique market dynamics.
Beyond her achievements, Phoina has embraced the mindset that resilience is key to success. She likens business to makeup artistry, where blending and adapting are essential. “Reaching the point where I now run a beauty academy and clinic has taught me countless lessons. But the most important one is that business is like contouring—you need to adapt and blend in smoothly.”
However, what has garnered the most attention is her take on finances and sponsorships. In a world where perceptions are often skewed, Phoina has been forthright about her journey and how she funds her projects. “I used to spend carelessly, but now I’m much more careful with my money. There was a time when I’d be out popping champagne bottles, but now I think more about the house I’m building and how to expand my business.” She makes it clear that all her projects are self-funded, which counters the popular belief that she relies on a wealthy benefactor. “For those who think I’m just a front for someone else, I challenge them to become the face of something and see how it goes.”
Still, Phoina doesn’t dismiss the concept of sponsorship entirely. “That being said, I don’t think having a sponsor is a bad thing. If you have someone to support you, it’s great—nobody wants to go it alone.” While she proudly states she is her own sponsor, Phoina remains open to the idea of someone supporting her goals, provided it accelerates her growth without compromising her values.
Ultimately, Phoina’s message is one of empowerment and choice. Whether through personal effort or external help, she is committed to moving forward. “With or without a sponsor, my success will continue to grow.”
Phoina’s story is a testament to hard work, financial discipline, and the power of self-belief. As she continues her entrepreneurial journey, her balanced perspective on sponsorship and personal growth is an inspiration to many who aspire to make their mark in competitive industries.
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