BALANCING FOOTBALL AND HUSTLES: HOW HARAMBEE STARTLETS' MIDFIELDER LUCY NJERI IS VENTURING INTO THE BAKING INDUSTRY

Kayole Starlets’ midfielder Lucy Njeri is a perfect example of a footballer who has found success beyond the field.

Her football journey dates back to Kariobangi Sports, before moving to Old is Gold, Makolanders, Soccer Sisters, and is currently a valuable member of the Kayole Starlets team.

Her entrepreneurial spirit is what led her to think of life beyond football, and she applied for a scholarship with the help of the Kenya Footballers Welfare Association (KEFWA).

Njeri completed her pastry coursework, thereafter venturing into the baking industry.

"I ventured into the business with the help of KEFWA and I was able to complete my coursework, starting my own shop. Work has been good since now I can pay for my bills," she notes.

In yet another powerful testament to the importance of diversifying income streams and planning for life beyond football, she has managed to balance her football and business effectively.

"Most of my customers are my fellow players, and I usually engage in business at the stadium and after matches, making it easier for me to balance football and business," she added.

As Njeri rightly notes, football is a short career, and it's important to plan for life beyond it. She encourages other footballers to engage in coaching, start a business, invest in Saccos, or gain skills and experiences by furthering their education.

She recently graduated with a FIFA/FKF CAF D coaching course license, which will enable her to coach both senior and junior teams.

“I really appreciate organizations like KEFWA for consistently being at the forefront of providing support to players. Their commitment to members' well-being has allowed many of us footballers to thrive in our careers both on and off the pitch."

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