Born and raised in Kibra, Vinicky’s love for art began early. She attended Mbagathi Primary School, then Matuu Girls High School where she completed her studies in 2018. Just a year later she joined the Good Kenyan Foundation’s 2019 Cohort 5, a decision she describes as life changing.
“I knew this would be the best programme for me," she recalls. “I had already decided I wanted to do something in line with art and Good Kenyan felt like the right place to start."
At Good Kenyan, Vinicky found more than just skills, she found mentorship, encouragement and the space to dream bigger. Melody, one of her mentors, says, “Vinicky’s passion for art was evident from day one. She didn’t just create for the sake of it, she poured her heart into every piece, always seeking ways to improve and innovate."
Even after completing the programme, Good Kenyan kept in touch, following her progress and celebrating her milestones. Vinicky transitioned from being a full time art teacher to focusing part time so she could grow her craft. This leap of faith paid off.
She went on to launch her own art studio in Lower Kabete and foundedHOV (House of Vinicky) Africa, a brand dedicated to upcycling glass and textiles. Her studio has since hosted exhibitions and events, and her work has attracted partnerships with notable organisations such as Kenya Airways (KQ), ASSEK and Anza Village. Today she is also laying the groundwork for her own art academy, an ambitious step toward inspiring and training the next generation of artists.
Reflecting on her journey, Vinicky believes the Good Kenyan programme is something every young person leaving high school should experience.
“If there is a way the Good Kenyan programme can be made compulsory for young people who have just left high school, those who don’t know what to do, how to choose a career or where to start, it would be amazing. This is what we need to guide and mentor our youth and help them find direction for their future."
Vinicky’s story is proof that when talent meets mentorship and opportunity, passion can transform into purpose and purpose into a thriving livelihood.