Maryanne Kariuki: Trained economist who found a niche in fabricating machines

‘When you find your niche, you must continue to be confident and thrive in it.’ D’Angelo Rusell

Maryanne Kariuki, a trained economist, unexpectedly found success in fabricating machines. In September of last year, she established Drumventures Agri-Machinery Company in Kariobangi, Nairobi County.

Her company specializes in creating a wide range of machines, including interlocking blocks, charcoal briquette makers, chaff cutters, and many more. Some of these machines were ideas brought to her by researchers and institutions.

Maryanne, now 32 years old, initially studied Economics Finance at Kenyatta University, but her career path took a different turn towards engineering and fabrication. Despite not succeeding in her job search after graduation, she gained valuable experience working for a fabricator in Kariobangi.

After the contract ended, Maryanne started her own business, utilizing her existing client connections to kickstart her company. With a strong interest in the fabrication process and design, she was able to meet the demand for quality machines in the market. Maryanne’s determination and dedication to her business have led to her success as an entrepreneur in the machinery industry.

Maryanne was in need of an office for client meetings but lacked the funds. A client ordered a cereals cleaner machine, paying a deposit of Sh420,000. She used part of the money to rent a workshop with an office and hired technicians she knew. She got materials on credit and assembled the machine with her team. She was paid over Sh1 million, which was only half of the cost of an imported cleaner.

Another client ordered an animal feed mixer, and she arranged to source it externally. Later, two NGO clients ordered multiple machines for cooperatives, leading to more hires. Maryanne now employs 13 technicians in various fabrication areas. She credits her success to good client relations from her previous job. She faces occasional complaints but promptly addresses them.

She sells machines nationally and internationally, relying on walk-ins, referrals, and social media for marketing. Her story teaches the importance of building relationships with clients, adapting to challenges, and seizing opportunities for growth.

Lessons from Maryanne’s story

If you can combine determination and independent thinking, alongside with hard work, you will definitely break every barrier of limitations around you and become successful.

Don’t be afraid to dream big dreams no matter the type of background you find yourself. Remember, you have all it takes to surpass records, and become that person you have always wished to be in life.

Never trim your dream to fit in your background. Keep dreaming even when you don’t know how it will come true.

Courtesy: The Standard