The Target Hitter

Nancy Kemuma, 33, who believes in taking risks, talks to VIVIAN MAINA about quitting her first job, hawking clothes and how LinkedIn changed her fortunes.

- Vivian Maina

When it came to picking a career, I wanted to be in a profession that dressed well. My parents used to bank with Barclays Bank and after seeing the bankers in their navy blue suits and pristine white shirts, I decided I wanted to get into the same industry.

My first job, funny enough, was at Barclays Bank. I worked in the direct sales section on the contract before quitting three years later. The bank was not hiring people on a permanent basis and that was my wake-up call. Leaving was a giant and scary leap of faith but I believe one has to take risks in life.