A casual look at the buxom, stunningly pretty lady seated across from me conjured up the image of a woman endowed with so much beauty that it was unlikely she would also possess a measure of intellect worth talking about. However, when she tilts back that pretty head and begins to narrate her story in that easy, lilting soprano full of mirth and a little mischief, Lillian Aketch spews out wisdom and comes across as one stunningly powerful packaging of Beauty and Brains. This is what she told the writer Lawrence Jeffrey
Who is Lillian Aketch?
My name is Lillian Akinyi Aketch . I was born to Maurice Aketch and Florence Aketch of Sigomere in Ugunja sub-County of Siaya County. Currently I reside in Nairobi. I have worked in the corporate industry as a customer care executive for close to twelve years. I am the founder and Chairperson of Mawego Alumni and Ugenya Queens. I also founded Kings & Queens of Siaya besides being the national president of Warembo na Raila political movement.
What specifically do you do in customer service and public relations?
I work in the corporate industry as a customer care executive. I also run my personal business as brand influencer and brand ambassador. I do online marketing. Am a commercial model and I feature in adverts. Am also a relationship panelist who gets invites on television. I’ve been on Victoria Lounge Show on NTV and on KTN Life n Style Show. I also did a gig as Siaya County brand ambassador under former Governor Cornell Rasanga
Great! You mentioned Warembo na Raila political movement. Tell us some more about your activities
Warembo na Raila is a women lobby and advocacy group that was mooted to steer campaigns for the Right Honourable Raila Amollo Odinga in his fifth bid for the presidency. As I said in my address at the Sigand Nyi-nam gala, we were a key component of the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition. Am still proud to have played a key role in shaping the destiny of our nation, no matter the outcome of the 2022 polls. The journey has been a rollercoaster but we withered the storms and the movement remains intact as we get ready to fight other battles tomorrow
Yes, now that you mention it, you were recently feted for exemplary stewardship in politics at the Sigand Nyi-nam gala. What was it about?
That was recognition by my fellow womenfolk that my efforts to nourish communities, empower youth and build a brighter future for generations to come through advocacy has not been in vain. It was a signature confirming that together we can embrace the challenges facing us today and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
Strong words, indeed. But am I missing something? So far I haven’t heard you mention any man in your life. Lillian are you married?
I’m not married, but I have a son
Fine. How about your personal time. What do you do when you are not modelling or inspiring women?
Oh! I love dancing in my free time. Most of the time I dance indoors, but occasionally I go out. I love rhumba music, Luo music and bongo
What are your political aspirations, say in 2027 and beyond?
I have a passion for politics, that one am unapologetic about. Maybe someday I’ll offer my candidacy as Woman Representative or even Member of Parliament, who knows? But I’d love to be an ambassador- diplomacy sits well with me. Anyway, in everything I believe in God’s timing. When the time comes I will say where my interest lies, for now am concentrating on my corporate job and brand influencer business
Who is your inspiration career-wise?
I am inspired by Professor Hazel Mumbo. She is the Vice-chancellor at Great Lakes University of Kisumu. It was a singular honour being feted by her at the Sigand Luo event in Migori. I also hold Mama Ida Odinga in very high esteem and so do I hold other great women who have impacted my life, one way or the other
Any memorable experience in your youth?
I lost both parents in the span of one month as a teen. It’s something I’d not wish anyone to go through. They say time is a healer, but I’ve never healed. It hurts more, especially when people are celebrating their parents during festive holidays such as Mothers and Fathers Day
Pole sana. Any word for the girlchild?
Girls are the architects of change, and their dreams have the power to transform societies. A girl with a dream can change the world. Let’s support and uplift every girl’s aspirations. The strength of a nation lies in the education and empowerment of its girls
Splendid. Now let’s turn to Siaya. What’s your take on development and governance?
Wow! I will tell you without reservations that Governor James Orengo has exceeded my expectations. In a span of months he has transformed the county into a vibrant hub of activity. I can’t wait to appear at the launch of our world-class Siaya Stadium. I believe more development of infrastructure and specifically kitting and upgrading our health facilities are on his radar. Kudos, Bwana Governor and the whole of your team
A parting shot to your fans and haters?
To all my fans who are always pushing me up for greatness, supporting and showing me love, am humbled and I appreciate you all. Seriously, I love you all. To my haters- “mti wenye matunda ndio hupigwa mawe…..na hizo mawe naendelea kujijenga nazo”
Follow Lillyane Aketch:
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