Bungoma Rentals CEO Debra Kisongochi (centre) displays her Zuri Awards trophy presented to her by Royal Media Services Corporate Affairs Manager Renee Makau (left). On the right is runners up, Margaret Maina from Nation Media Group. PHOTOS/Z.URI AWARDS

A Bungoma-based journalist was on Friday last week feted for her Covid-19 innovation during the Zuri Awards gala held in Nairobi.

Ms Debra Kisongochi, 29, was among the 200 nominees from across the country that had lined up for the coveted gala.

The former model was awarded under the media category for using her knowledge in the industry to impact the lives of the people in the society and helping individuals and businesses find clients and products using her Facebook page, Bungoma Rentals.

Kisongochi, who also runs a You Tube channel, started Bungoma Rentals as a marketing agent two years ago when the Covid-19 pandemic had been declared a national disaster in Kenya. The platform gives locals an opportunity to find accommodation at hotels and rental houses as well as tenants.

Bungoma Rentals has grown to be a big platform with 13,000 Facebook subscribers already following the brand by the time of publishing this post.

Speaking to Wakajuaness Live.Com, the journalist stated that she was surprised to win the award as she was competing against big names among them journalists from leading mainstream media.

“I didn’t expect to win this award because it was a tough competition from established media personalities,” said Kisongochi.

“Out of nearly 600 admissions, only 200 qualified for the final nominations each hoping to become among the 15 winners and I’m happy and humbled that I was among the 15.”

Debbie, as commonly referred to, added that sharing her story with Zuri Awards was the genesis of her journey, saying Bungoma Rentals also provides training to young women on financial empowerment including chamas and Saccos, which must have earned the attention from the organizers.

Ms Kisongochi (left) and her friend, Daisy Nekesa, showcase Bungoma Rentals during the training session in Nairobi. PHOTO/COURTESY

Zuri Awards is a platform that recognizes, celebrates, supports and gives a voice to women who are impacting and changing the lives of others in our communities and is part of the annual International Women’s Day Celebration.

The organization was holding its sixth edition since being founded.

Debbie now hopes to use her recognition to inspire many young women and help the society become a better place.

By WAMBOI NYAMBURA

Wamboi Nyambura is a security expert and an ardent investigative journalist on matters human interest. A crime editor at WakajuanessLive.Com.

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