Bringing together young and seasoned entrepreneurs as well as corporate chiefs, inaugural event added fire to the participants’ bellies, making them more resolute and focused to excel in their respective fields
Held on 1st November 2024, at the Movenpick Hotel, Westlands, StunnerBiz brought together a diverse audience from industry leaders, young enthusiastic entrepreneurs and change makers who were the highlight of the event after coming to explore the latest trends shaping the future of business. StunnerBiz 2024, being the first of its kind and themed : ‘Unlocking Your Full businessPotential’, was buzzing with energy as attendees took part in thought provoking key-notes and roundtable discussions together with interactive panel discussions on various issues ranging from embracing new technology to building resilient teams.
The keynote speaker (Dr. George Wachiuri, CEO and founder, Optiven Group) and the panelists offered invaluable insights on entrepreneurship. However, StunnerBiz was not just about strategy; it was also about sparking collaboration and building connections. Throughout the event, entrepreneurs found a common ground, discussed potential partnerships and shared their visions and expectations for the future. It was a great opportunity to network.
Dr. Wachiuri, set the pace for the day. He gave a very powerful account of his journey as an entrepreneur. Before gaining a foothold in real estate, he had set up several businesses – for instance bottling water and renting cars – and they had all collapsed. At some point, he was operating a brief case office from Uhuru Park as he struggled to make ends end. The temptation to go back to formal employment was real – but he never gave up! He had also once taken a huge loan from a leading commercial bank to settle debts owed to investors lured by an unscrupulous partner to venture into greenhouse farming. This venture ended up being a long con – both for Dr. Wachiuri and the hapless investors. To safeguard his personal and corporate brand in a business whose hallmark is trust, the only option was to take a loan. That wise decision paid off and the rest as they say is history. With an eye on the regional market, Optiven Group is one of the leading real estate companies in Kenya.
EVENT OVERVIEW
From insightful talks on talent acquisition and leveraging the power of technology to elevate businesses, to hands-on workshops and networking opportunities, the event delivered actionable strategies and fresh perspectives. Here are some of the key highlights of the events.

Round table discussion: Unlocking the challenges and opportunities for entrepreneurs
The roundtable event brought together a dynamic mix of entrepreneurs, business experts, and enthusiasts, all eager to share ideas and tackle the challenges entrepreneurs face in Kenya. Divided into focus groups, the discussions spanned key aspects of entrepreneurship, offering practical solutions to both common and complex problems.
What hinders the growth of entrepreneurs in Kenya? (Led by Jennifer Kinyua)
Jennifer Kinyua led the first discussion, identifying major obstacles to entrepreneurial growth in Kenya. Policy inconsistency was highlighted as a significant issue, with many entrepreneurs struggling to navigate unclear and shifting regulations. The challenge of duplicating licensesalso emerged as a key barrier, particularly for small businesses. Furthermore, the group emphasized the importance of integrity in financial management, noting that many businesses falter when personal and business finances are not clearly separated.
How to source affordable funding for your start- up (led by Joash Ombuna)
Joash Ombuna’s group tackled the perennial challenge of securing affordable funding. Entrepreneurs were urged to first define what ‘affordable’ means for their business, considering not just the amount but also the terms of the funding. Research and preparation were stressed, with a focus on understanding the full terms, including interest rates and repayment schedules. The group also discussed the importance of insuring funding sourcesto provide a safety net in case of unforeseen challenges.
Leveraging technology to unlock the full potential of your business (led by Andrew Shonko)
Andrew Shonko’s group explored the transformative role of technologyin scaling businesses. They discussed how digital marketingand artificial intelligence (AI) powered toolscan streamline operations, enhance brand visibility, and automate tasks like customer experience. The importance of data protectionwas highlighted, stressing the need for secure digital infrastructures as cyber threats increase. Entrepreneurs were also encouraged to utilize communication toolslike Slack and Zoom to improve team collaboration, particularly with remote workers.


Challenges faced by entrepreneurs at the start-up stage (led by Caroline Murimi)
Caroline Murimi’s group examined the unique challenges faced by start-ups, including lack offunding, talent acquisition, andregulatory hurdles. The group underscored the importance of having a clear brand strategyat the outset and discussed how many entrepreneurs struggle to effectively market their products or services.
Talent acquisition was another hot topic, with many entrepreneurs finding it difficult to compete with larger companies for skilled labour.
As the round table discussions came to a close, there was a sense of unity among participants, many of whom realized that the struggles they face are shared by others. A recurring theme was the need for better policies and more streamlined processes, particularly in licensing and funding. Technology emerged as a game-changer, with many entrepreneurs now viewing it as an essential for growth and efficiency. The event provided a renewed sense of optimism and collaboration, showing that while entrepreneurship is tough, the solutions and support needed for success are within reach.
The roundtable discussions at the StunnerBiz 2024 event were a powerful reminder of the shared challenges and opportunities that entrepreneurs in Kenya face. From navigating regulatory hurdles and securing funding to leveraging technology and building resilient teams, the discussions offered practical insights and solutions that entrepreneurs can apply to get good results. The key takeaway was the importance of collaboration and adaptation. Whether through improved policies, smarter use of technology, or stronger networks, entrepreneurs can overcome obstacles and unlock their full potential. With a renewed sense of purpose and community, attendees left the event ready to tackle the entrepreneurial journey with confidence and resilience.
PANEL DISCUSSION
The StunnerBiz 2024 panel brought together visionary leaders to share their journeys and insights on navigating the complex world of entrepreneurship. Through incisive stories and thought-provoking advice, the panelists painted a vivid picture of resilience, risk-taking, and customer-centric leadership as the cornerstones of success.
Dr. Patrick Gathondu: Balancing Innovation and Risk
Dr. Patrick Gathondu captivated the audience with a compelling message that growth andinnovation are inseparable companions. Entrepreneurs,he emphasized, must constantly seek gaps in the market and strive to fill them, even if the road ahead is uncertain.
“Failure is inevitable,” he acknowledged, but leaders must plan for it. Developing broad, flexible frameworks and mitigating risks are essential for survival. He reminded the audience that while insurance is important, it’s not a cure-all. Instead, entrepreneurs must explore creative solutions to navigate unforeseen challenges.
His advice to leaders was simple but profound: think beyond the present. “What opportunities lie ahead?” he asked. “How will your vision prepare you for tomorrow?” With meticulous planning and a proactive mindset, leaders can turn potential setbacks into opportunities for growth.
Emma Omany: Overcoming fear to create impact
Emma Omany’s story began with a personal frustration—the lack of effective skincare solutions for eczema tailored to African skin. From this gap, Busu Naturals was born, a business built on the belief that risk is the path to extraordinary results.
Emma inspired the room by reframing failure as a stepping stone. “The greater the risk, the bigger the impact,” she explained. But her approach to risk is calculated. She encouraged entrepreneurs to evaluate when to invest and when to pull back, ensuring every decision aligns with their long-term goals.
Her journey serves as a powerful reminder: within every challenge lies the seed of innovation, and fear should never overshadow the potential for greatness.
Collins Wanyonyi: Building prosperity through inclusive business models
Representing Equity Kenya Limited, Collins Wanyonyi shed light on how businesses can drive both profitability and shared prosperity. Equity’s transformative initiatives, such as the Wings to Fly programme and targeted funding for underserved communities, illustrate that empowering others can lead to collective growth.
He shared the story of a women’s group whose entrepreneurial journey began with just Kshs.10,000 in funding. Today, that same group has access to a Kshs.200 million facility, demonstrating the power of resource diversification and community-driven business models.
Collins’ message was clear: entrepreneurs should never rely on a single resource. By diversifying and fostering inclusivity, they can build models that not only sustain them, but also uplift entire communities.
Carolyne Gathuru: Winning Hearts and Loyalty
Carolyne Gathuru brought a human touch to the discussion, emphasizing the importance of understanding customers on a deeper level. “Before you attract a customer, you need to knowhim or her,” she said, urging entrepreneurs to define their audience and build genuine relationships.
Listening to customers, she noted, is the key to retention. Asking questions like “Am I servingyou well?” not only improves customer satisfaction but also transforms customers into advocates who bring others on board. For Carolyne, the foundation of business success lies in creating value and maintaining trust.
Reuben Mwaura: Timing, mindset, and the power of action
Reuben Mwaura’s journey as an entrepreneur has been marked by failures—more than he could count. Yet, he views each setback as a stepping stone. “It’s all about timing,” he explained, likening success to a dance between fear and courage.
When others are greedy, he advised, be cautious. When others are afraid, seize the moment. This mindset, that he calls ‘ BeDoHave’ , starts with envisioning success, then taking the actions necessary to achieve it.
Reuben also reminded entrepreneurs of the long game. “We overestimate what we can achieve in a day but underestimate what we can do in three years,” he said. Faith and action, he believes, are the bridges to unlocking one’s full potential.

A collective message for entrepreneurs
The StunnerBiz 2024 panelists shared a unified message: entrepreneurship is not for the faint-hearted. It requires boldness, strategic thinking, and a relentless focus on the customer.
• Embrace risk: Innovation and growth come from stepping into the unknown, but always with a calculated plan.
• Think beyond today: A leader’s vision must stretch far beyond the present challenges.
• Empower and uplift: Whether through inclusive funding models or community-driven initiatives, shared prosperity leads to lasting impact.
• Listen to customers: Their voices are the compass that guide sustainable growth.
• Act with Faith: The first step, though uncertain, sets the journey into motion.
The discussion served as a beacon for aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs alike, leaving them inspired to turn challenges into opportunities and build businesses that not only thrive but also transform lives.
Mentorship clinic and networking
After that mind-blowing discussion equipped with so many insights on how entrepreneurs can unlock the full potential of their businesses and hence grow to the next level, the young together with the seasoned entrepreneurs took to their respective tables. They got a chance to speak individually and to know each other on a deeper level in order to foster networks and business relationships. They put into practice one of the key lessons in this event – expanding their network and meeting with likeminded individuals.
HOW STUNNERBIZ HAS CONTRIBUTED TO THE ENTREPRENEURIAL ECOSYSTEM
StunnerBiz has significantly enriched the entrepreneurial ecosystem by fostering a platform that bridges knowledge gaps and inspires innovation. Through its events, like the 2024 panel discussion, it provided actionable insights on risk management, leadership, and customer engagement, empowering entrepreneurs to build resilient and forward-thinking businesses. The organization emphasizes inclusivity, with examples like promoting community-driven funding models and showcasing success stories of under – represented groups. By connecting thought leaders, business experts, and aspiring entrepreneurs, StunnerBiz has cultivated a supportive network that drives shared prosperity, stimulates economic growth, and nurtures a culture of innovation across industries.
What next for StunnerBiz?
Building on the momentum of the StunnerBiz 2024 event, Asante Media is poised to further empower entrepreneurs by deepening its focus on practical solutions, innovative strategies, and inclusive business practices. Future initiatives may include more interactive workshops, mentorship programmes, and partnerships with financial institutions like Equity Bank to provide access to capital and resources. Additionally, StunnerBiz aims to foster a wider network of entrepreneurs, expanding its reach while championing risk-taking, customer-centric leadership, and community empowerment as cornerstones for sustained growth and impact in the business world. This is achievable through its plans to expand its entrepreneurial networks by going from county to county preaching business and how to nurture the spirit of entrepreneurship.