Eunice Waithera’s journey from a young girl aspiring to be an engineer to a thriving entrepreneur in the male-dominated shoe cleaning industry is an inspiring testament to resilience and determination.
Growing up in Limuru, Eunice had big dreams of becoming an engineer. However, her aspirations took an unexpected turn when her father passed away when she was just 16. The loss plunged her family into financial hardship, and with her mother unable to afford the school fees, Eunice was forced to put her education on hold. In light of these circumstances, she was compelled to reassess her future and find ways to support her family.
Leaving formal education behind, Eunice moved to Nairobi and worked as a housemaid for five years. Despite the physically demanding nature of the job, she demonstrated a strong work ethic and a determination to persevere through life’s challenges. Yet, the desire for a more fulfilling career led her to seek better opportunities.
Her breakthrough came when she landed a job as a waitress in Nakuru. Although the role was a step forward, it still failed to provide the sense of purpose she longed for. It was during this time that Eunice discovered her innate talent for shoe cleaning. While working for an employer on Nakuru’s KANU street, she honed the skill of cleaning safari boots—a task traditionally performed by men.
Despite entering a male-dominated field, Eunice saw this as an opportunity rather than a challenge. Her expertise in shoe cleaning quickly garnered her a growing clientele, bringing in significant revenue for her employer.
After just four months, Eunice took a leap of faith and decided to go solo. With savings of Sh5000, she invested in her own future. She spent Sh2000 on a seat and the rest on shoe brushes and polish, setting the stage for her entrepreneurial journey.
Starting her own business proved to be a turning point. The newfound stability and independence not only enabled Eunice to support herself and her family, but also allowed her to save for future goals. In an interview with Nation, Eunice shared that her monthly earnings ranged between Sh30,000 and Sh40,000—an impressive sum that was a testament to her hard work and ingenuity.
However, her path to success was not without obstacles. In an industry that was steeped in gender stereotypes, Eunice faced skepticism from some men who questioned her ability to clean shoes effectively. Many suggested that shoe cleaning was not an appropriate job for a woman. Nevertheless, Eunice remained resolute, unwavering in her commitment to proving herself and achieving her goals.
Her perseverance and skill in a male-dominated industry serve as a powerful reminder that passion, coupled with determination, can overcome even the most entrenched societal barriers.
