Robyn Nakaambo captured the nation with both her voice and her charm as she graced our tv screens and radio airwaves. The growth of her career has been a great one to watch. In our September issue Robyn lets us in on her journey and the big plans she has installed for us.
On a hot Sunday afternoon, Robyn, right on time, patiently awaits for her well deserving and anticipated Monochrome cover shoot at TW Studio. Running late as usual, we head straight to make-up. As we try and and buy more time, we start asking her off-the-bat questions just to keep the conversation going and just as our September issue stylist, Sai Style arrives. Robyn’s make-up was done (by Melvy Macky) and we were ready to shoot.
Robyn on Life.
Who were some of your heroes growing up? Who influenced who you are today?
You could say it’s a cliché’ but my hero is my dad, he is my best friend, confidant and number one supporter. He has molded me and ensured I have more than he had growing up and that I remain morally grounded as I work for everything I want and need.
His work ethic is phenomenal and I feed off of that.
Did you always know what you wanted to do? Talk to us about the first few years after high school.
I sort of had an idea of what I wanted to do which was architecture but that did not work out as planned and now I can’t imagine how my life would have panned out if I actually became one. In my spare time at home, I always loved the idea of being in the media. I recall recording myself talking over music and pretending to be a radio presenter *lol. I did that most of my high school and being an extrovert didn’t help suppress my urge to be an entertainer. My first year at university I found myself auditioning to be a part of the campus radio (UNAM radio) after which I moved to Radio Energy. The exposure radio gave me encouraged me to want to move into television and MC’ing which helped me build the brand I am today.
What are some of the values your childhood contributed to the woman you are today?
Growing up, I was always encouraged to be myself and never loose myself for anything or anyone. I was always told that when you work hard for it, success is always so much sweeter. And that I should never forget my moral compass. With the above mentioned, I am constantly working on growing myself to be better than I was yesterday. I never forget the Almighty when embarking on any ventures and never forget who I am and where I ideally see myself.
The aim is to grow, remain humble, inspire and encourage on my journey.
Robyn on Career
What do you think is the driving force in your life?
I have so many forces that push me daily as I am one person that finds meaning and drive in the people I allow in my inner circle (family and friends) but my need to constantly out do myself is what keeps me ablaze and kicks me on days I want to succumb to the pressures of the world.
What essentially do you want to be known for?
I want to be the epitome of a young woman that constantly re-brands herself and grow into the ideal role model.
What does your portfolio look like right now?
I’m currently an External Stakeholders’ Engagement Officer, I own a hair brand called Superlative Virgin Hair where I sell Brazillian weaves, frontals, lashes and sunglasses. I’m a television presenter for Whata’Lifestyle on NBC, a master of ceremonies as well as my recent venture in catering services.
How do you manage all these jobs and career paths? What are some of your coping mechanisms?
I love everything I do, and there’s a saying that says if you love what you do, you will never have to work a day in your life. To relax, I exercise and cook.
I love keeping fit and eating good food.
What career advice do you live by?
Be the change that you wish to see – Mahatma Ghandi
If you had the opportunity to meet one person you haven’t met who would it be?
Nelson Mandela, he is iconic.
What do you appreciate about your journey? What would you take away?
I would not take anything away from my journey as I believe God had me go through what I did to grow through it.
Robyn on her Brand
What would you warn 12 year old Robyn about?
Your failures should not define you but should rather encourage you to be and do better than what you did yesterday, remember your only competition is YOU. And, always work hard in silence and let your success do the talking for you.
What can we look forward to?
I’m not letting the cat out of the bag just yet, trust my process and all shall be revealed in time.
What has been the highlight of your brand?
My growth in my journey of creating my brand has stunned me personally, I’m far from being done yet I look back in awe. I can’t single out one thing as everything had played a role in shaping my brand.
Mantra you live by?
Dreams don’t work unless you do.
Keep up with Robyn on Instagram
