Hey guys.As I type this I’m listenig to Ne yo’s song ‘Forever now’ and I’m here thinking how Ne yo can do no wrong.I think he always makes great music.His songs make you put yourself in his shoes even though you’re not exactly in that kind of situation.Speaking of music,I have had the chance to interview radio presenter/Emcee/TV show host Hailey Gachoka. Here’s what she had to say…
- Having your own radio show. That’s a dream of many! How did you get to become a radio presenter?
It is! Thank you. I actually had no idea I had the talent until I met Rae (of HomeBoyz Radio) at school (USIU). She convinced me to try out for the breakfast show at school since she was leaving. I got it and really enjoyed it, so I started looking for job opportunities in that area a few months later. I did voice tests at Capital, Hits FM (where I now work) and Kiss100. A year later I finally got feedback from Hits, and the rest, as they say is history.
- How is the experience of hosting alongside JB (Masanduku Junior)?
It was fun. He’s hilarious and kept me in stitches for 4 hours every day, which is great. I’d never worked with a comedian before so it was a good experience for me.
- What are some of the challenges you face as a young female presenter?
I’d have to say being taken advantage of. You really need to exert yourself and show your employer that despite being young and female, you know your worth and what you’re capable of.
- Does it come with any perks?
Definitely, we get a lot of free stuff like complimentary tickets to events. You also get a lot of exposure to everyone in the business, so networking is way easier.
- Anything in the works for Hailey the radio presenter? What are your future plans?
First of all I’m not big on titles…Haha. I find them limiting. Because I’m not planning to stay on radio forever. So it’s just Hailey Gachoka, that’s the brand.I have so much in the works. TV shows, an events company, an urban clothing line, and eventually opening up my own media house.
- First 3 songs on your playlist are?
That changes a lot, but right now:
History-Ryan Leslie
Safe and Sound-Capital Cities
Skelewu-Davido
NOW TO MATTERS FASHION…
- How would you describe your personal style?
It’s not something I can exactly categorize, but mostly urban, retro, hippy, and chic are the best words I’d use to describe my style.
- On a scale of 1 to Coco Chanel, how much do you love fashion? What is it to you?
I’d say Coco Chanel! I remember not really caring about school and drawing sketches at any chance I got in high school. I actually wanted to go study art and fashion design at Savannah College of Art and Design in Atlanta, but my dad wouldn’t have it! So it was kind of pushed to the backseat.Fashion to me is an expression of the soul, the true essence of what a person feels about themselves.
- Love your hair colour. The cut is also amazing! Which products do you use on your hair and where do you get your hair done?
Thank you! I use Motions, Sunsilk hairspray, and TCB hair food. I actually do my own hair, but when it’s absolutely necessary I go to Ashley’s at The Mall, Westlands.
- What’s your stand on weaves? Love or hate ‘em?
Or don’t mind ‘em?Oh lord. Ok, I personally would never be caught dead in one, but I don’t mind them if they’re done well and well maintained.
- Stilettos or wedges?
Depends on the situation, because I love them both. But judging from my closet, I have more wedges than stilettos.
- What are your favourite shopping spots for clothes, shoes, accessories?
I’m not really picky about shopping spots, because I shop all over. If I see something I like and I have the money, I’ll buy it.
- Your favourite designers?
Internationally: Prada, Dolce & Gabbana , Chanel, Gucci, Jimmy Choo
Locally: Sara Karay
- What do you think about the Kenyan fashion industry currently? Do you think we’re there or do we still need to work at it? Are we at the levels on Paris, New York, London…to mention but a few…?
I think that it has so much potential. The creativity and ingenuity is there, it’s definitely headed in the right direction. I would say we have a lot of work to do, but with the current players in the fashion industry, I have faith that in a few years, we can be considered as a fashion destination.As for being on the same level as some of the fashion capitals in the world, no. Can we get there someday? Yes, definitely.
- Would you buy something for the label, or are you more after quality/functionality?
The old me would buy something just for the label, but now, I like to buy things that give me value for the money I’m spending.
- Which items do you never miss in your handbag?
My phone, wallet, lip gloss, hand lotion, deodorant, hairbrush, extra hairbands, handkerchief, eye drops, my mini make-up kit and some candy 🙂
- Recount to us your worst shopping experience…
I don’t think I’ve ever had one….
- Your most prized fashion item is…
A pair of orange Prada wedges I got a few years back. They’re just amazing!!!:)
You can like here facebook page here and follow her on twitter here .Don’t forget to tune into her show called ”The Low Down” on
1FM’s, OneDrive at 91.5 or on the website www.915hits.co.ke every Saturday from 2-4 PM.
Remember to also show some love by liking my facebook page here or follow me on instagram @winniethefashionista .
Thank you for passing by!
Do have a fruitful week.
Cheers!
🙂
Winnie THE fashionista. 