By Agnetta Shilasi.
In an era where professional recognition is a coveted aspiration for many, the journey to earning such acclaim is often marked by relentless dedication and exceptional talent.
We present a narrative of unwavering determination and pioneering spirit embodied by Ms. Asha Sisah Rashid, a 21-year-old third-year student pursuing in Social Work and Community Development at Kibabii University.
Her trajectory epitomizes a blend of ambition and providence, culminating in her remarkable ascent to the helm of Aisha Crochets as its CEO.
Join us for an exclusive interview with Asha as she shares insights into her extraordinary journey
Q: Could you share with our audience a bit about yourself?
I’m Asha Sisah Rashid, a 21-year-old third-year student pursuing Social Work and Community Development at Kibabii University. I come from Kakamega County, raised in a humble family background of five by a single mother. After attending Mbururu Secondary School, I earned admission to Kibabii University with a C+.
Q: Your entrepreneurial journey with Aisha Crochet is quite impressive. Can you tell us more about its inception?
Absolutely. While my given name is Asha, I’ve been affectionately called Aisha by many, hence the branding choice. Though I’ve been involved in crochet for some time, it wasn’t until 2022 that I began taking it seriously for commercial purposes. Most of my clientele are fellow students, although I do have some customers beyond Bungoma.
Q: What inspired you to delve into crocheting?
My mother served as my inspiration. Witnessing her crochet at home ignited my passion for the craft. Given our modest background and my mom’s struggles as a single parent, I saw crocheting as a potential income source. I wanted to contribute to our household while also standing out from the crowd.
Q: Balancing academia and entrepreneurship is no small feat. How do you manage it?
Education holds immense value for me, especially as a female trailblazer in my community. I prioritize my studies but dedicate my evenings to crocheting, often working late into the night to fulfill orders. My friend lends a hand when things get overwhelming. It’s a demanding schedule, but I manage.
- How do you get clients?
The majority of my clientele comprises fellow students from within the campus. However, I also utilize the TikTok platform for marketing purposes, which has proven to be fruitful in generating positive outcomes. My Tiktok account is Aishacrochets, you can like and follow to view my work and make orders as well.
Q: Looking ahead, where do you see yourself professionally in five years?
My goal is to establish a successful company, providing clothing support to the less fortunate, particularly those on the streets and children in need.
Q: It’s clear you’ve had guidance along the way. Who has been your mentor?
Dr. Robert Kati has been a tremendous mentor to me. Despite his academic stature, his humility and approachability make him an invaluable guide.
Q: Lastly, what advice do you have for today’s youth?
I urge young people to embrace innovation and explore avenues beyond academics. Engaging in activities that not only generate income but also serve society is crucial for personal growth and community impact.
