Brenda Amunga, originally from Busia, Kenya, worked as a hairdresser in Kayole, Nairobi County before being given the opportunity to travel to Dubai through an agent. After arriving in Dubai, she worked as a housemaid for a while before her boss, who was also a salon owner, discovered Brenda’s background in hairdressing and offered her a part-time position at the salon. Six months later, she was requested to work at the salon full-time, which she did for two years before returning to Kenya for vacation.
Upon her return to Dubai, Brenda decided to start her own business, inspired by her father’s successful apartment rental business. She began by renting a bed space and organizing jobs for Kenyans interested in working abroad while also providing accommodation for Kenyans already working in Dubai without their own homes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, her business grew due to the number of people inquiring for affordable bed spaces. From the proceeds of her bed space business, Brenda acquired her first residential two-bedroom apartment, which she used for monthly rentals or as a guest room.
Brenda’s monthly rental apartments and guest room business has been running for over three years now. She got into the business due to competition in the bed space business and started by renting out her fourth flat. The business picked up quickly, and she was able to add more rental properties and guest rooms due to good services and recommendations. Currently, she manages six flats and continues to thrive despite the challenges of the business. Brenda says she receives support from fellow Kenyans and tries her best to give her clients the best services.
