Carey Priscilla, a multi-hyphenate entrepreneur and public figure, is leveraging her expanding brand beyond the beauty industry and into the world of reality television. The accomplished makeup artist, who runs two successful beauty schools in Nairobi, is making headlines for her role on the hit show The Mommy Club NBO.
The mother of three, has been at the center of the show’s recent on-screen conflicts, including accusations of instigating a feud between cast members Jackie Matubia and Lynne Njihia.
In an exclusive interview, Priscilla offered insights into her career trajectory, personal life, and the business of managing public perception.
On Joining the Cast
Priscilla recounted a chaotic period last December when she was first approached by the show’s production team. “Everything felt so hectic,” she said, describing a time when she was overwhelmed with the holiday season and her business. Despite the initial difficulty in connecting, she saw the opportunity as a strategic move. “I’m so grateful for this opportunity,” she stated, viewing her participation as another avenue for brand exposure.
Balancing Business and Family
When asked about the challenge of balancing her role as a business mogul with motherhood, Priscilla was direct. “Parenting is no walk in the park,” she said, stressing the sacrifices required. She credited her faith and a robust support system, including her husband Benitto and her siblings, for her ability to manage both. This structured approach to managing her personal and professional life is a key aspect of her brand identity.
A Bold Stance on Family Planning
Priscilla has been vocal about her and her husband’s family planning choices, a topic that has generated significant public debate. Having achieved her goal of having children in quick succession, she now advocates for her husband to undergo a vasectomy. “It’s simple, not complicated,” she explained, emphasizing the need for mutual commitment in a partnership. She views local male resistance to the topic as a sign of a deeper, more selfish fear of long-term commitment.
Strategy for a Public Marriage
Priscilla and her husband Benitto have become known for their public displays of affection and what many see as a model relationship. She credits her husband’s faith as the foundation of their bond. Priscilla also disclosed a proactive approach to maintaining their relationship, including taking classes with a sex therapist. “I’ve taken it upon myself to learn and grow,” she said, highlighting her commitment to investing in her marriage—a strategy akin to investing in a business.
Navigating Public Scrutiny
The entrepreneur is no stranger to public scrutiny, having been criticized for her on-screen rejection of her husband’s proposal. Her strategy for dealing with the backlash is centered on authenticity. “The key is to always be my authentic self,” she said. By maintaining her true identity, she believes she is immune to the negative impact of public opinion.
On-Set Dynamics
Regarding her on-screen clashes with fellow cast member Jackie Matubia, Priscilla was matter-of-fact. She described Matubia as someone who “projects a lot,” suggesting her reactions are rooted in personal history. Priscilla speculated that Matubia may feel “triggered” by discussions of marriage due to her past relationships, offering a calculated psychological analysis of the show’s drama.
Priscilla’s ability to navigate the complexities of her public life, from managing a business to controlling her narrative on a reality TV show, positions her as a savvy figure in the Kenyan media landscape. Investors and brand strategists will be watching to see how she continues to monetize her rising public profile.
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