Valentine Nekesa, the daughter of renowned trade unionist Francis Atwoli, rose to national prominence in 2017 when she emerged victorious in the Blaze Be Your Own Boss competition. This achievement not only catapulted her into the limelight but also showcased her entrepreneurial acumen. She secured a total of Sh5 million in prize money, comprising Sh3 million in capital and Sh2 million in mentorship, business support, and financial backing.
However, Valentine’s journey to success is a testament to her resilience and determination, shaped by her early life experiences. She was adopted by Francis Atwoli and his wife Rosalinda following the death of her mother. This event marked a turning point in her life, leading her to a path of entrepreneurship and self-discovery. Valentine’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident even before her victory in the Blaze competition. After completing her KCSE exams in 2014, she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey. With a passion for fashion that had been nurtured during her school years, she founded her own company, V-Design, also known as Nekesa Queens Ltd. At just 17 years old, she demonstrated remarkable foresight and ambition in establishing her business.
Valentine’s interest in fashion was not merely a passing phase; it was a passion that she had cultivated over the years. During her time in school, she had maintained a sketchbook filled with various designs, a testament to her creative prowess and dedication to her craft. This passion, coupled with her drive to succeed, laid the foundation for her future endeavors.
Despite her youth, Valentine has achieved significant milestones in her entrepreneurial journey. One of her most notable achievements was being ranked number 14 in the Top 40 Under 40 Women in Kenya in 2017. This recognition not only highlighted her business acumen but also served as a source of inspiration for other young women aspiring to succeed in the business world.
Valentine’s success story serves as a reminder that age is no barrier to achieving one’s dreams. Her determination, coupled with her passion for entrepreneurship, has propelled her to great heights. As she continues to build her business empire, she remains a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, perseverance, and a belief in oneself. Valentine Nekesa’s journey from being the daughter of Francis Atwoli to becoming a successful CEO is a testament to her resilience, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit. Her story is a source of inspiration for young entrepreneurs across Kenya and serves as a reminder that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.
By Newsmedia