Story by; John Kipchirchir
In Summary;
•She is a microbiologist from JKUAT
•Her company is purely organic
Shayna, that's a unique name isn't it?
"Laughing" yes it is. It goes to show that my parents had well planned about my coming into existence. I am the second born child of a family of seven. We are six girls and one gentleman.
.jpg "Shayna Cherop") |
| Entrepreneur Shayna Cherop displays her product. She is the founder of AYNA line of cosmetics based in Uasin Gishu County. (Photo courtesy) |
Tell us about you
I went to Segero Highschool for my O-levels then joined JKUAT for my degree. I studied Microbiology. It is while in campus that I got interested in the makeup business. During my 1st year I was already doing business in school.
After campus, I began training people how to apply make up. I took it up as a business and I started earning from it. I still do.
A microbiologist, how did you find yourself in business?
I come from an entrepreneurial family. My parents are in business. When I told them that I'd be going into business, they supported me unconditionally. I also have always had a dream of owning my own production company and when I got a chance, that's what I did.
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| Some of the products from AYNA cosmetics. The products are purely organic. |
So, when did you start production of your cosmetics?
Initially, I started production back in August 2022. However, due to health conditions, I had to halt production for about five months as I recuperated. I got back into production January this year. It has been going on well and I am thankful for the team that has been working behind the scenes to ensure that our product stays on the shelf and maintain the highest quality during production.
How has the uptake of your products been?
Firstly, to understand the background, I got into production after interacting with various women when I was working as a make up artist. ( I still do). Women would complain of how the products they were using wasn’t good enough, or how their skin would react with the chemical components of the makeup used and such like problems. I saw this as an opportunity to come up with something that would cater for such clients.
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| Some of the organic products by AYNA Cosmetics |
I must say that the uptake has been very good. Since my product is of high quality and organic, they are safe to use by families. So you'll find once someone buys it, they would definitely come back for more.
How do you market your products?
Mostly, it is done through word of mouth. Once a client buys from me and they like the product, they then inform their friends and the chain goes on and on.
Since I also work in the beauty industry as a make up artist and a tutor, I have been able to reach out to my long list of clients. In future I am looking foward to get a national platform to push my products.
Our products include; body scrubs, essential oils and makeup products all organic, from locally sourced ingredients.
What are some of the challenges you face?
Well, there are a number of challenges we face. Startups in Kenya are strained financially. We also face a challenge of already established brands in the market and an influx of products from China.
Also, we have a challenge of getting information on our products out there to the clients.
Still, there is some bit of skepticism by the client on Kenyan made products. However, once they use our product, they change their minds.
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| Shayna of AYNA applies essential oils, part of her products |
Any word for someone looking to venture into business?
Business is good. Once you have the product you want to move, be the brand ambassador of your product. Talk about it to your potential clients enthusiastically, be proud of what you are doing. It is sometimes a painful, lonely journey but it has to be done.
Parting shot
To my fellow youth venturing into business, do not be afraid. Get in boldly, do your thing.
To order her products, you can reach her on 0726989027
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