Beyond the Desk: Issabelah Mutuku

What hobby or interest are you passionate about that might surprise people? 

I am passionate about cosmetology. My interest in beauty and cosmetics started as a teenager and intensified at university. I experienced a serious breakout on my face, which prompted me to understand my skin type and identify the best products to use. Over time, I have researched and gained extensive knowledge of skin, hair, and nail care products.  I understand skincare well and often advise others on appropriate routines and products that suit their specific needs. This passion has led me to monetize my expertise on several occasions. Currently, I am an ambassador for two brands, a cosmetics brand and a nail care product in Kenya.

What is the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?

I am not a very adventurous person, but one that comes to mind is when I joined my father on a village hunting expedition to protect our crops from hedgehogs that would destroy the maize and sweet potatoes on our farm in Machakos. The thrilling expedition turned into a not-so-good experience when a huge wild pig charged at us, forcing me to end my adventure early. From this experience, I learned that a hunter must be prepared for anything and should have tools to attack the enemy. I only had a piece of log, which disappeared during the encounter.

If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go and why?

The Maldives archipelago, just to enjoy the oceanic breeze.

What book, movie, or TV show do you think everyone should read or watch at least once?

Ikigai, co-authored by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles. Everyone deserves to be happy and uncover their life purpose, “ reason to live,” by adopting the four elements of Ikigai;

  1. Your passion (what you love)
  2. Your vocation (what you’re good at)
  3. Your mission (what the world needs)
  4. Your profession (what you can be paid for)

If you could have dinner with any three people, who would they be, why, and what would you talk about?

Michelle Obama tops my list! She is a role model for many young women, including myself. Her achievements, resilience, and advocacy for various important causes are quite inspiring. I admire her composure, courage, and her push to see women succeed in all they do.

There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.” – Michelle.  

We would probably talk about public service and advocacy: What motivated her to focus on initiatives like Let’s Move! and Reach Higher? How can young people get involved in community service and advocacy?”

Sheryl Sandberg’s influential role in business, her advocacy for women’s leadership, and her insights on balancing professional and personal life are worth noting. Our conversation would be about Sandberg’s own career journey, achievements, and experiences.

Dr. Myles Munroe (the late): I feel like he lived in the future! I live on his teachings on purpose, leadership, vision, potential, and personal development. Our conversation would be all about releasing and maximizing my full potential.