The tale of Kendi Kimathi resonates with the incredible force of determination, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of one’s true passion.
As a graduate in Nutrition and Dietetics from Kenya Methodist University, Kendi’s journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of embracing one’s interests and transforming them into a thriving business.
Following a stint in the demanding world of a call center job, Kendi found herself yearning for something more. The monotonous routine and the allure of a monthly paycheck no longer held the appeal they once did.
She craved the excitement of waking up each day with a sense of purpose, eager to pursue a career that aligned with her academic background.
However, the quest for a suitable job in her field proved to be a formidable challenge. Frustration mounted as she encountered roadblocks on her path to meaningful employment. During this period of uncertainty, a long-forgotten hobby from her past came to her rescue.
Brewing porridge was more than a mere pastime for Kendi; it was a passion she had inherited from her mother.
Finding solace in the art of brewing porridge, she realized that this seemingly ordinary activity brought her immense joy and satisfaction. It was during this period that the idea to turn her hobby into a business began to germinate.
Without a concrete plan, Kendi decided to take a leap of faith. With Ksh20,000 in savings, she embarked on the journey to establish her own venture.
Utilizing her mother’s kitchen as her makeshift headquarters, she set out to brew her signature fermented porridge. Meticulously blending two types of millet – pearl and finger millet – in perfect proportions, Kendi skillfully ground and mixed the grains. The next step was fermentation, a crucial process that imparted a unique flavor to her product.
Founded in 2015, Uji Benda Enterprises was more than just a business venture; it was a manifestation of Kendi’s unwavering determination to chart her own course.
As the sole proprietor and employee, she embarked on a voyage of self-discovery, both as an entrepreneur and as a creator of a product she deeply believed in. Starting small, her initial clients consisted of friends and family, but Kendi’s journey was destined for greater heights.
In an increasingly interconnected world dominated by social media, Kendi harnessed these platforms to broaden her reach. Through word-of-mouth referrals and online visibility, her customer base began to swell.
What had initially started as a humble enterprise soon blossomed into something more substantial. As demand surged, Kendi diversified her product line to include milk, catering to the nutritional needs of her expanding clientele.
Today, Uji Benda Enterprises boasts a loyal customer base of around 500 individuals and a dedicated team of eight employees. Kendi’s passion for delivering quality, nutritious products shines through as she sells 80 to 100 liters of porridge weekly, priced competitively to ensure both sustainability and customer satisfaction.
The journey was not without its fair share of challenges, but Kendi’s unwavering commitment led to recognition and success. Awards and accolades have followed, validating her unwavering dedication to her craft.
Beyond being a business success, Kendi’s story serves as a wellspring of inspiration, particularly for women and young entrepreneurs. Her narrative challenges societal norms, proving that with unwavering passion and determination, anyone can forge their own path and create a meaningful impact.
From the confines of a call center to the flourishing realm of a porridge enterprise, Kendi Kimathi’s story encapsulates the true essence of resilience and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams.
