As a lifestyle, beauty, and fashion creator from Kenya, Lucy Kinuthia is carving her own path as a young entrepreneur. Her journey is not just about building a business, but about empowering women to prioritize their health and confidence. In this interview, Lucy shares her insights on the challenges and opportunities women face in Kenya when it comes to embracing great well-being, and how her own experiences have shaped her approach to maintaining self-love and care.
First things first, let us know you better! Could you tell us about your life journey?
It all began with my love for makeup and learning how to manage my acne-prone skin. I wanted to share that journey in a fun and creative way because it’s always been an outlet for me. What started as a personal exploration quickly evolved into something bigger, a way to connect with others who were going through similar experiences. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see how my content resonates and inspires people along the way. Before I started creating content, I was simply a beauty enthusiast, passionate about skincare and makeup, and like many, I used beauty as a way to express myself. Now, being a business owner and content creator, I get to combine my creativity with entrepreneurship, which is such a fulfilling experience.
Can you share your personal self-care routine?
My self-care routine is my sacred time, and I’m definitely a DIY girlie when it comes to beauty and wellness. I like to keep up with regular monthly waxing, nails, and hair care. But beyond that, I focus on small daily rituals that make a big difference like skincare routines, staying hydrated, and taking time out to recharge mentally. Self-care, for me, is about maintaining balance and taking time to do what makes me feel good. It’s important not just for physical well-being, but for mental clarity as well.
What message do you want to send to young women about the importance of self-love, care, and self-expression?
To every young woman, I want to say that self-love and self-expression are your superpowers. It’s so important to embrace who you are, flaws and all. Don’t feel pressured to fit into society’s ideals. Take care of yourself because you deserve it, not because anyone else says so. Self care is an act of love towards yourself, and it reflects in how you carry yourself. Express yourself authentically, whether it’s through fashion, makeup, or any other form. When you honor who you truly are, you radiate confidence.
What do you think are the biggest healthcare challenges women face in Kenya, especially when it comes to reproductive health?
I think one of the biggest challenges women face in Kenya when it comes to reproductive health is access to safe, non-judgmental healthcare. There’s still a stigma attached to certain health concerns, and many women feel hesitant to seek help out of fear of being judged or misunderstood. This makes it harder for women to access the care and information they need, which can lead to bigger issues down the line.
How cultural attitudes in Kenya influence women’s healthcare choices and overall awareness about health issues?
Cultural attitudes in Kenya can heavily influence a woman’s healthcare decisions. For example, topics like sexual health and reproductive rights are often not openly discussed, which can make it difficult for women to make informed choices. In many cases, women are expected to stay quiet about their health issues, and this leads to misinformation and a lack of awareness about crucial health matters.
What are some misconceptions about women's health that you’ve come across in Kenya, and how do you think they can be addressed?
A common misconception is that reproductive health only concerns pregnancy or family planning. In reality, reproductive health covers a wide range of issues like menstrual health, sexual wellness, and gynecological care. Education is key in addressing these misconceptions, starting conversations early, both in schools and communities, to help women feel empowered and informed about their bodies.
How do you think social media can help raise awareness about health issues facing women in Kenya?
Social media is an incredible tool for raising awareness. It allows us to create spaces where women feel comfortable sharing their experiences and learning from each other. Through platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and even YouTube, creators and healthcare professionals can break down complicated health topics into digestible, relatable content. It’s all about creating an open dialogue and making information accessible to everyone.
How do you think the healthcare system in Kenya could be improved to better serve women, especially in terms of access to gynecological and reproductive care?
I believe that making healthcare more affordable and accessible is a major step forward. There needs to be more investment in women's health clinics and programs, particularly in rural areas where resources are limited. Additionally, normalizing regular gynecological checkups and educating women about the importance of reproductive health from an early age would also make a big difference.
And don't forget to follow Lucy on the Instagram: @_lucykinuthia