DJ Pierra Makena stands as a powerful example of grit, talent, and resilience. Celebrating two decades in Kenya’s entertainment industry, the actress, event host, and groundbreaking DJ has not only carved a niche for herself but has also shattered gender stereotypes in the male-dominated DJ industry. At 43, Pierra reflects on the challenges she overcame to rise to the top without compromising her values a journey she hopes will inspire other women to follow their dreams without succumbing to pressure.
Pierra began her career on the airwaves as a radio DJ during a time when the profession was still budding in Kenya. Back then, women in DJing were rare, and female DJs were almost non-existent. Yet, Pierra was undeterred. Already a known TV and radio presenter, she embarked on her DJ journey, joining a profession that she was told “wasn’t her space.” She started her career at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) but quickly grew beyond conventional media, determined to explore the freedom and excitement that came with DJing. “I wanted to do something bold,” she recalls, looking back on her decision.
Her success, however, was met with a barrage of criticism, prejudice, and resistance from both her peers and society. Pierra’s path to success was challenging, often lined with judgments from a conservative society that looked down upon women in nightlife entertainment. “I went through hell. I was called a whore, a stripper, simply because I performed in clubs,” Pierra reveals. Despite this harsh labeling, she held firm in her ambition, fueled by a desire to prove that women could thrive in the industry without sacrificing their integrity.
The pressures extended beyond public opinion. Pierra faced direct hostility from male colleagues in the industry, many of whom felt threatened by her presence. Her success was attributed to fabricated stories rather than her undeniable talent. “I was told by some male DJs to quit because they believed DJing wasn’t for women,” she shares. Rumors started circulating that she must have slept her way into gigs a narrative that ignored her hard work and tenacity. “I still have messages from those who spread these lies, hoping to push me out of the business,” she says, reflecting on the toxic environment she endured.
Yet, despite the negativity, Pierra stood resilient. She expanded her portfolio from small club gigs to major concerts, honing her craft with each performance. In 2013, she decided to go commercial, making DJing her sole source of income. This bold move was a testament to her confidence and conviction that her skills could sustain her. “Going commercial was my way of showing other women that they can succeed in this industry without compromising themselves,” Pierra states proudly.
Before fully committing to DJing, Pierra had worked at Scanad Group, a marketing agency, but eventually left the corporate world to pursue her passion. This transition marked a pivotal point in her career as she moved from stability to the uncertain yet thrilling world of entertainment. It wasn’t an easy decision, but one that she has never regretted. By venturing into DJing, Pierra created a pathway not just for herself but for other women in Kenya who aspire to follow unconventional careers.
As she looks back on 20 years in entertainment, Pierra hopes her journey will resonate with young women facing similar obstacles. Her message is one of integrity, resilience, and staying true to one’s values, no matter the circumstances. “No one can say I slept with them to get a DJ job. I have always stood firm in my principles,” she asserts, hoping to dispel the toxic myths around women’s success in entertainment.
In celebrating her achievements, Pierra has shown that success in male-dominated fields is not only possible but sustainable when built on a foundation of talent, hard work, and integrity. She remains an inspiring figure, paving the way for future generations of Kenyan women who dream of success in entertainment without compromising who they are.
