Category: Fashion and Lifestyle

By Chelangat Caren,

Between 8 AM lectures, group chats blowing up with assignment deadlines, and the eternal struggle of finding a seat in the library, it is easy to think that fashion is a luxury you will worry about “after campus.” But walk through any quad at noon, and you will see something else: campus is a runway, even if it is unspoken. The way you dress on campus is not just about looking good for Instagram but also about identity, confidence, and survival in a space where first impressions happen in the 30 seconds between lecture halls. Fashion and lifestyle on campus are not separate from student life—they are student life, lived out in what you wear to a 7 am class, what you throw on for a club meeting, and how you carry yourself when you finally make it to the weekend hangout.

 

Fashion on campus thrives on creativity born from limitation. Most students are not working with influencer budgets or personal stylists. Instead, you see thrifted denim paired with a branded hoodie from last year’s hackathon, sneakers cleaned until they look new, and accessories that tell a story—beaded bracelets from home, a watch borrowed from dad, a tote bag that has seen three semesters of photocopied notes. This is where style gets interesting. When money is tight and time is shorter, you learn to mix, match, and make do. The result is a unique campus aesthetic: part streetwear, part corporate casual, part “I slept 3 hours, but I’m still here.” It is messy, practical, and often more original than anything on a store mannequin.

 

Lifestyle ties it all together because how you live shapes how you dress. Pulling an all-nighter means you will probably reach for that oversized hoodie and slides the next day. But a group presentation means you will dig out the one clean shirt and attempt to iron it with a hot water bottle. Campus fashion is reactive. It responds to the pace of assignments, the weather, and the unspoken dress code of your faculty. Law students lean toward smart casual, engineering students live in cargo pants and tees, and arts students experiment with color and layering like its a project. None of it is accidental. Every outfit is a small decision about how you want to be seen in a space where you’re constantly meeting new people and forming your adult identity.

 

The beauty of campus fashion is that its low-stakes experimentation. This is the safest place to try a bold color, test out a new hairstyle, or wear that jacket you are not sure about. Outside campus, judgment feels heavier. Here, your peers are just as broke, just as busy, and just as figuring-it-out as you are. That freedom lets you build a personal style without fear. And style is more than clothes—it influences how you walk into a room, how you present in interviews, and how you feel on days when nothing else is going right. A good outfit will not solve a failed CAT, but it can give you the two minutes of confidence you need to walk into the retake.

 

What you learn about fashion and lifestyle on campus sticks with you long after graduation. You learn that confidence does not come from expensive labels but from wearing something that feels like you. You learn that a simple outfit, kept clean and well-fitted, beats a closet full of clothes you do not understand. And you learn that lifestyle—how you manage time, money, and self-care—shows up in your appearance whether you like it or not.

 

Years from now, you will not remember every grade you got, but you will clearly remember the nights you spent altering a thrifted jacket at 2 am the first time you felt “put together” for a presentation and the friends who told you to keep that ridiculous hat because it suited you. Campus is where you stop dressing for other people and start dressing for yourself. Carry that forward. Because the most memorable style is not what is trending; it is what is unmistakably yours.

By Chelangat Caren,

 

Every student has that one thing at the bottom of their bag or tucked on their desk that makes no sense to anyone else. A chipped keychain from Mombasa, a faded wristband from a music festival, a smooth stone picked up on a random trip home. It is  not valuable in a shop, it does not match your room décor, and if you lost it, no one would notice. But to you, it is a time machine. One glance and you are back to that bus ride with friends, that first taste of independence, and that moment you realized campus life was not just about lectures. A souvenir is never just an object. It is a pause button on a memory, and on campus, where life moves fast and changes faster, those pause buttons matter more than we admit.

 

Souvenirs on campus do not look like the polished fridge magnets tourists buy at airports. They are rougher, cheaper, and often accidental. Maybe it is the flyer from the club fair you attended on a whim and ended up joining. Maybe it is  the handwritten note from a friend who graduated and left last semester. Maybe its the coffee mug with a chip on the rim that you refuse to throw away because it was your first “adult” purchase with your first HELB disbursement. These objects survive because they carry weight that is not measured in shillings. They survive campus moves, laundry accidents, and the ruthless cleaning of your room before your parents visit. They survive because when you hold them, you remember who you were in that moment—and who you were becoming.

 

What makes souvenirs powerful is that they anchor you. University life can feel like a blur of deadlines, new faces, and constant change. One week you are a part of a tight group working on a project until 2 AM; the next week you’re studying alone for finals and wondering where everyone went. In that blur, a small object gives you something solid to hold onto. It reminds you that the chaotic, sleepless, brilliant years you are living right now are real and worth remembering. Psychologists call this “material anchoring”—the idea that physical items help us preserve emotional experiences. On campus, where emotions run high and goodbyes happen too often, that anchoring is crucial.

 

There is  also a quiet kind of storytelling that happens with souvenirs. You will notice it during late-night chats in the hostel. Someone pulls out an old lanyard from a leadership camp, and suddenly a 20-minute story unfolds about getting lost in Nakuru, meeting strangers who became mentors, and deciding to change courses. Without that lanyard, the story might never have been told. Souvenirs become conversation starters, identity markers, and proof that you have lived, not just studied. They tell future employers you have traveled, future friends that you are sentimental, and future you that you did not just survive campus—you collected moments.

Years after graduation, you will l forget the exact mark you got in that statistics CAT, but you will remember the feeling of holding that souvenir and knowing you were alive in that moment. That is why it is worth keeping the little things, even if they seem useless now. They are not clutter but evidence that you took risks, made friends, got lost, found yourself, and laughed until your stomach hurt in places you might never see again.

 

So the next time you pick up a random bead from a market stall, a ticket stub from a play you almost skipped, or a pebble from a trip home, don’t toss it. Put it somewhere safe. Future you will need that reminder that campus was not just a place you passed through. It was a place that changed you—and you have the souvenirs to prove it.

By Joe Aura, aurajoe6@gmail.com

Sir David Attenborough is the defining voice of nature. For over 70 years, he has bridged the gap between scientific wonder and human emotion – turning the living world into a shared experience for billions.

What makes him truly great is not just his longevity, but his unwavering authenticity. He is a man who writes his own scripts, sits in the mud waiting for a shot and shares his “authentic wonderment” rather than just acting for a camera.

The Eras of an Icon

The Broadcaster’s career evolved from simple curiosity to a powerful, urgent plea for the planet’s survival.

• The Pioneer (1950s–1970s): Starting with Zoo Quest (1954), Attenborough brought live animals into British homes for the first time. This era culminated in the landmark Life on Earth (1979), which revolutionized the genre by filming animals in the wild and featuring Attenborough on location rather than in a studio.
• The Landmark Era (1980s–2000s): During this time, he completed his “Life” trilogy with The Living Planet (1984) and The Trials of Life (1990). In 2001, The Blue Planet provided the first comprehensive look at our oceans, followed by the global phenomenon of Planet Earth (2006), which set a new standard for high-definition nature cinematography.
• The Advocate (2010s–Present): As environmental crises deepened, his work shifted. Blue Planet II (2017) sparked a global conversation on plastic pollution, and Our Planet (2019) for Netflix reached over 100 million households with a direct focus on conservation. His recent 2025 series, Ocean, continues this urgent register, pairing beauty with a “sharpened clarity” about the climate crisis.

 

The Gift of the Voice

Beyond technical brilliance, his voice is frequently described as having a raspy, fireside warmth and acts as a trusted guide through the planet’s most vulnerable places. It is a voice that cuts through noise with wisdom and quiet urgency. His whisper is coupled with pure enthusiasm and whether he is howling with wolves or whispering next to a gorilla, his love for life is palpable. He doesn’t just show us nature; he makes us fall in love with it, operating on the philosophy that “no one will protect what they don’t care about”.

By Chelangat Caren,

In the heart of Nairobi, where the scent of fresh produce and the hum of haggling fills the air, Gikomba Market’s traders are fighting for their slice of heaven – and their livelihoods. The government’s demolition plans have sparked a David-vs-Goliath battle, pitting progress against people, and leaving thousands wondering; what is the cost of progress?

As bulldozers loom on the horizon, Gikomba traders are digging in their heels, their livelihoods and legacies hanging in the balance. For many, the market is not  just a place to sell goods – but  a community, a support system, and a lifeline. “This is our home,” says Jane, a vegetable vendor, “Where will we go?” Her plea echoes through the crowded stalls, a testament to the human cost of progress.

Gikomba Market traders are facing a tough time. The government wants to demolish the area to make way for a housing project led by President William Ruto’s administration. The traders, who occupy 14 acres of land, are pushing back, citing concerns over their livelihoods and lack of consultation.

The traders argue that the government’s decision will plunge over 100,000 people into poverty, affecting not just traders but also suppliers, transporters, and casual labourer’s. They are seeking court intervention to stop the eviction, claiming it violates their property rights and right to public participation.

On the other hand, the government is pushing forward with plans to upgrade the area, promising modern markets with amenities like cold rooms and cyber services. President Ruto has directed officials to process a title deed for Gikomba Market within 90 days, aiming to address land grabbing concerns.

The situation remains tense, with traders protesting and seeking alternative solutions. The court will decide the fate of Gikomba Market, but one thing is for sure  certain – the stakes are high for the thousands of people who call this market home.

The traders have been given a warning to relocate, but they are not going down without a fight. The court has allowed them to file a fresh petition to prevent eviction, citing lack of proper notice and consultation.

The case highlights the challenges of urban development and the need for balanced solutions that consider the rights and livelihoods of all stakeholders. It is  a complex issue, with no easy answers. But one thing is certain ; the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the traders, their families, and the wider community.

As the court battle continues, the traders are holding on to hope that they will be able to stay in their homes and businesses. But for now, the uncertainty hangs in the air, leaving many wondering what the future holds.

As the Gikomba market saga unfolds, one thing is clear: the threads of livelihoods, dignity, and community are being carefully woven into a fragile fabric, threatening to unravel at the seams. Will the courts weave a new path, or will the fabric fray, leaving thousands bare? Only time will tell.

By Cindy Maloba,

You must have heard the popular phrase “Mombasa Raha.” Ah, the pure joys of the island. The hot summer weather, the coastal plains, breezy beaches, and Swahili dishes that leave your taste buds dancing. Add in the warmth of the Swahili culture and you forget the city’s endless hustle and bustle.

But my dear reader, that is only the beginning. The true raha (happiness) lies further south, in Diani. This jewel of the Kenyan coast is the very definition of relaxation. It is a tourist magnet, especially from July through August, when holidaymakers flock here to soak in its magic.

 

First Impressions

I discovered Diani after quitting my office job. One month into freedom, I packed my bags for my first real vacation. The Jacaranda Indian Ocean Resort was my chosen hideaway, and from the moment I checked in, I knew I had found my slice of paradise.
I arrived in the quiet hours of Saturday morning. My room welcomed me with cool air conditioning, an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower, and even a private balcony. A minibar stood ready, alongside tea and coffee facilities. The best part? My balcony opened to a
sweeping view of the ocean, framed by lush tropical greenery. That sunrise became my personal masterpiece.

Lazy Mornings, Easy Afternoons

Saturday morning rolled in slow. I let my body sink into stillness, recovering from the long road trip. By afternoon, I dipped into the resort’s large outdoor pool, the water melting away the last traces of fatigue. Later, at the spa and wellness center, I surrendered to a deep tissue massage that left my body light and recharged.

The Food

When evening fell, magic unfolded at the Jungle Village. The waiters arranged fine dining under tall palm trees. Plates of fresh seafood, smoky grilled meat, and fragrant pilau arrived in turns. Old Taarab music floated in the air, tugging me back to days when bands like the famous Jandwani Boys ruled the coastal nights. Dinner wasn’t just food, it was an embrace of culture. The next day’s lunch was equally unforgettable. At the ocean terrace, I was served Swahili coconut curry, soft chapati, and samaki wa kupaka. Each bite carried the flavors of the coast; spicy, creamy, unforgettable.

The Adventures

Sunday was built for thrill-seekers. Alongside fellow tourists, I set out for a marine excursion at Kisite – Mpunguti Marine Park. We dived into clear waters and watched dolphins dance near Shimoni. Later, we wandered through the sacred Kaya Kinondo forest, its silence echoing with
history. Every step whispered stories of the ancestors. By evening, the resort invited me to join in games: beach volleyball, darts, table tennis, and even Zumba classes under the fading sun. Time in Diani doesn’t tick, it dissolves. You lose the
pressures of life and find instead the stillness of the moment.

The Highlights

The Jacaranda Indian Ocean Resort holds many charms. It offers direct access to the Indian Ocean, perfect for sunrise strolls on powdery sand. Ukunda Airstrip is just a 15-minute drive away, while Moi International Airport in Mombasa is about 45 km off. Nearby attractions
include Shimba Hills National Reserve, Wasini Island, and the Colobus Conservation

(https://theholidaydealers.com/, n.d).

The Drawbacks

Like every paradise, Diani has its shadows. The resort sits far from basic amenities; malls, convenience stores, fuel stations, and even some health facilities. Getting supplies or urgent services can be inconvenient. A few rooms carry the weight of age; they whisper rustic charm rather than modern luxury. Wi-Fi, too, can be stubborn, fading in and out depending on where you stand. And if you crave a vibrant nightlife during the week, you might find the evenings too quiet.

Recommendations

Still, the pros shine brighter than the cons. My advice? Pack light, carry your essentials, and prepare to switch off. Diani rewards those who come ready to let go. Go for the food, the culture, the sunrises, the music, the ocean, and most of all, for yourself. Because sometimes, dear reader, happiness is just a south coast sunrise away.

 

 

References
(n.d). Retrieved from https://theholidaydealers.com/:
https://theholidaydealers.com/destinations/kenya/diani/jacaranda-indian-ocean-beachresort/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0BMABhZGlkAFTBRmipujcBHt8Vuxw8QK0ADTosYLt8gezRXRpFmz0fV_nLHmbGcUJtohW8jnzqCvYv8m4_aem_62P_VwSmQPVnJX5vVwCa0A&utm_mediu
m=paid&utm_source=fb&utm_

By Chelangat Caren,

Nairobi Restaurant Week 2026 is making waves in the culinary scene, positioning the city as a leading food destination in Africa. This 10-day festival, running from January 22^nd to February 1^st, 2026, brings together over 70 top restaurants, showcasing the city’s diverse flavors and culinary expertise. Governor Johnson Sakaja emphasizes the importance of food culture in shaping Nairobi’s global brand, highlighting its potential to attract business travellers and food enthusiasts alike. The event is officially endorsed by the Ministry of Tourism, Magical Kenya, and the Nairobi City Council, marking it as a key highlight on the tourism and hospitality calendar.

Some of the top participating restaurants include Sarabi Pool and Supper Club, which does not only serve world-class cuisine but also  stunning views of Nairobi’s skyline, Talisman Restaurant, blending local ingredients with international culinary techniques, Mama Oliech Restaurant, serving traditional Kenyan dishes, Carnivore Restaurant, famous for its iconic nyama choma, and Java House, a popular spot for delicious coffee and hearty meals.

Nairobi Restaurant Week is more than just a food festival , it is a testament to the city’s vibrant culture and diversity. By showcasing local talent and promoting culinary tourism, the event aims to position Nairobi as a premier culinary hub in Africa.

Nairobi Restaurant Week 2026 is serving up more than just a taste of the city’s culinary delights – it is  dishing out a side of culture, diversity, and pure entertainment. Imagine savoring traditional Kenyan dishes at Mama Oliech Restaurant, complete with the sounds of local music and warm hospitality. Picture yourself at Sarabi Pool and Supper Club, indulging in world-class cuisine while taking in the breath-taking views of Nairobi’s skyline. These experiences are just a sneak peek of what is in store for you.

The event is a big deal, folks! With over seventy top restaurants participating, you are  spoiled for choice. From fine dining to casual eats, Nairobi’s culinary scene has something for every palate and preference. Governor Johnson Sakaja puts it best: “Food is a growing driver of tourism, attracting business travellers and food enthusiasts alike.” And with the Ministry of Tourism, Magical Kenya, and the Nairobi City Council on board, you know this is an event worth marking on your calendar.

But Nairobi Restaurant Week is   not only just about food but also   showcases the city’s vibrant culture and diversity; while supporting local talent, promoting culinary tourism, and putting Nairobi on the map as a premier culinary hub in Africa. So, are you ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure like no other?

By Joe Aura (aurajoe6@gmail.com)

Nairobi offers a wide variety of niche events, from art and music to specialised workshops and immersive cultural experiences. One such event is Spectra, a celebration of music and culture by WhoWhatWhere Magazine in collaboration with Friends of the Artist (FOTA).

The third edition of Spectra was hosted at The Rift, Manohar Centre, on 20th December 2025, exactly a year after the Spectra Femme Edition—a celebration of womanhood. The R&B-themed Spectra Vol. 3 featured an impressive lineup including Maya Amolo, Ankh, N’Jiru, Thulanii, Monzo, Burugu, Trent, Zowie Kengocha, and Ashe.

I arrived at The Rift around 11 p.m., and the place was already buzzing. The rooftop venue at Manohar Centre in Westlands offered an open, intimate atmosphere with a clear view of the Nairobi skyline. FOTA and WhoWhatWhere did a commendable job curating a gritty, dark, yet vibrant space, while also ensuring guests were comfortably accommodated when rain threatened to interrupt the night. Downstairs, a mini art pop-up showcased treats, fashion, and even a PlayStation setup, adding to the layered experience.

Musically, the live performances were outstanding. Maya Amolo and N’Jiru delivered soulful, intimate sets that resonated deeply with the audience. The open setup allowed the crowd to experience the performances up close, creating a shared emotional connection. Big Yasa joined N’Jiru on stage for a surprise performance of Tempo, which electrified the room and became one of the night’s highlights. The DJs in between sets maintained the mood with well-curated selections, ensuring a seamless musical journey throughout the night. The organisers were also visibly present and attentive, consistently checking in on attendees.

One of the most memorable interactions I had that night was with a fellow introvert—something I immediately connected with. Her outfit sparked our conversation: a leather jacket layered over dungarees, black skin-tight inners, and a cool hat resting atop her beaded braids. She shared that she was a medical researcher who had just completed her degree, and that she spends much of her time reading. Attending the FOTA event alone, she explained, was a personal challenge she had intentionally set for herself.

On a personal level, attending events has not always been easy for me. I struggled with self-esteem and anxiety growing up, and social spaces can still feel overwhelming. However, I have been deliberately pushing myself to step out of my shell, and Spectra Vol. 3 proved to be a worthwhile experience. As FOTA’s tagline reminds us, “everyone is invited.”

People are drawn to niche events like Spectra Vol. 3 for several compelling reasons.

First, there is the power of authentic connection. Spectra brings together individuals who share common interests and passions, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging. It creates a space where like-minded people can meet, exchange ideas, and form meaningful relationships that often lead to lasting friendships and collaborations.

There is also the appeal of unique experiences and discovery. Spectra events are intentionally intimate, allowing attendees to deeply engage with specific cultures, sounds, and artistic expressions. The experience often introduces audiences to new artists, ideas, and perspectives they may not encounter elsewhere.

Another key factor is personal growth. Participating in carefully curated events like Spectra can spark self-development—learning new sounds, building confidence, and gaining creative inspiration. The alternative, non-judgmental environment makes it easier for individuals to step outside their comfort zones.

Niche events also serve as a form of mental escape. They provide a break from routine and work-related stress, allowing people to be present, relaxed, and emotionally refreshed.

Finally, attending such events helps support local culture. Spectra directly contributes to sustaining Nairobi’s creative ecosystem and offers a platform for emerging talent. Showing up to a Spectra event means becoming, quite literally, a friend of the artist.

–

For story pitches, commissioned writing, or collaborations, connect with Joe on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/aura-joe-digitalproducer/recent-activity/articles/

 

By Chelangat Caren,

Style in the Everyday: How Fashion and Beauty Are Being Redefined

Fashion no longer lives only on glossy runways or behind boutique windows. Today, it is found in everyday spaces — on morning commutes, in offices, at weekend markets and family gatherings. Style has become less about perfection and more about expression, comfort and
confidence.

Across cities and towns, people are embracing fashion that works for their lives. Clean lines, relaxed fits and versatile pieces now take
precedence over trends that look good only in photographs. A single outfit is expected to move easily from work to social spaces, reflecting a
shift toward practicality without sacrificing personal flair.

Beauty, too, is undergoing a quiet transformation. The heavy, layered looks that once dominated social media are giving way to softer, more
natural aesthetics. Skincare has taken centre stage, with many opting for routines that focus on health rather than concealment. Glowing skin, neatly groomed brows and subtle makeup have become everyday staples.

This shift is also changing how people shop. There is growing interest in locally made clothing, handmade accessories and natural beauty
products. Consumers are asking more questions — about where fabrics come from, how products are made and who benefits from their
purchase. Supporting small designers and artisans is no longer just a trend; it is a statement.

Sustainability has become part of the fashion conversation. Shoppers are choosing quality over quantity, repairing old favourites and
reworking classic pieces instead of constantly buying new ones. Thrift shopping and clothing swaps have gained popularity, offering both
affordability and creativity. In this space, style is less about excess and more about intention.

Beauty standards are also expanding. There is greater acceptance of diverse body types, skin tones and hair textures. More people are
celebrating their natural hair, experimenting with protective styles or wearing it simply as it grows. Beauty is increasingly defined by
individuality rather than conformity.

Social media continues to influence fashion and beauty, but its role has evolved. Instead of dictating trends, it now acts as a showcase for
personal style. Ordinary people — not just models and influencers — are shaping what is considered fashionable, proving that style does not
require a large budget or a famous name.

Ultimately, fashion and beauty have become tools of self-expression rather than rules to follow. They reflect how people see themselves and
how they want to move through the world. In embracing comfort, authenticity and creativity, everyday style is proving that looking good is
not about impressing others — it is about feeling at home in your own skin.

 

 

By Chelangat Caren,

In today’s fashion and beauty landscape, trends are no longer followed blindly —
they are reinterpreted. What once arrived as rigid rules from runways and
magazines now takes shape through individuality, creativity and lived
experience. Contemporary style is being reimagined in ways that feel personal,
expressive and refreshingly real.

Take makeup, for instance. The modern beauty look is not about perfection, but
intention. Bold eye colours sit comfortably alongside bare skin. Graphic liners
coexist with soft, glowing complexions. Beauty enthusiasts are experimenting
freely, blending minimalism with drama, tradition with modern flair. Makeup has
become a language — one that allows wearers to tell their own stories.

In the accompanying photo, a group of young women pose confidently, their
makeup varied yet cohesive. One wears a sharp, defined eye paired with nude
lips; another embraces radiant skin with a pop of colour on her cheeks. Their
looks are different, but together they capture the spirit of contemporary beauty:
fearless, inclusive and unapologetically expressive.

Fashion follows a similar path. Silhouettes are relaxed, styling is layered and
gender lines continue to blur. Streetwear borrows from couture, while vintage
pieces are styled with modern confidence. Trends are no longer about copying
what is “in” — they are about adapting ideas to suit personal identity and
lifestyle.

Social media has played a key role in this evolution. Instead of dictating
standards, it has opened space for diverse voices. Everyday creators, makeup
artists and stylists are redefining beauty norms, proving that style does not need
approval to be valid. Representation has expanded, and with it, the definition of
what is considered beautiful.

What stands out most in this era is confidence. Whether through a bold lipstick,
a bare face, or a carefully curated look, the message is the same: beauty works
best when it feels authentic. Contemporary trends are not disappearing — they
are simply being reshaped, one face, one outfit and one idea at a time.

In reimagining trends, today’s generation is doing more than changing how
fashion looks. They are changing how it feels — inclusive, expressive and deeply
human.