From studying Mechanical Engineering at the University of Nairobi to building a digital brand and founding Safirii, Wabosha Maxine has blended technical knowledge with creative energy. In this chat, she reflects on her campus days, leaping into entrepreneurship, and the mantra that keeps her grounded: ‘Always remember to work hard and have good intentions.’
Briefly introduce yourself.
My name is Wabosha Maxine. I’m a Mechanical Engineer by training, a content creator, a creative director and the founder of Safirii.
Where and what did you study at university?
I studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Nairobi.
Favourite and least favourite course/unit while at university?
Favourite: Material Science — the lecturer made it genuinely exciting.
Least favourite: Fluid Mechanics. I don’t think that even needs an explanation!
Are you currently practising what you studied?
Not at the moment. While studying engineering, I discovered my true passion, and I chose to follow that instead.
What was campus life like for you?
Busy! I spent most of my time juggling between building my brand and keeping up with studies. I really tried to strike a balance so I wouldn’t miss out entirely on the university experience.
How did you make money while at university?
I worked as a make-up artist and a content creator. Those side hustles kept me going.
What was dating like on campus?
Campus introduced me to a whole new mix of people. It was fun connecting with different individuals on deeper, more personal levels.
Your thoughts on campus relationships?
I believe relationships serve different purposes for different people. For some, it’s a lifelong partnership; for others, it’s companionship for a season — or even a lesson.
Where did you usually hang out on weekends?
I was quite the homebody. If I wasn’t editing content I’d just shot, you’d likely find me curled up, catching up on my favourite series.
How did you spend your free time?
Mostly filming and organising shoots for content. I was very focused on building my brand whenever I wasn’t studying.
Classmates you’ll never forget?
My university squad made those years unforgettable. From first-year hangouts at Uhuru Park to treating ourselves to ice cream at the end of tough weeks — those memories are priceless.
Advice to young aspiring entrepreneurs?
Jump — and grow wings on the way down. The most successful people move with urgency. Don’t wait for the perfect time; it rarely comes.
Any chance we’ll see you shift to full-time engineering?
Highly unlikely. My focus right now is on growing Safirii into a household name and expanding our in-house workshop to support others looking to build their own brands.
Challenges you’ve faced as an entrepreneur?
The biggest challenge has been learning on the job — which often means making costly mistakes. But I choose to see those as “school fees” for the invaluable experience I’m gaining.
How do you balance creating content for brands while maintaining your own brand identity?
After eight years as a content creator, it’s become second nature. I feel very much at home in front of the camera. It brings me so much joy.
By Ronald Kipruto
