Kenyan makeup artist and content creator Dennis Karuri recently took his followers on a journey down memory lane, sharing throwback photos and reflections on the difficult experiences that shaped his career in the beauty industry. In a TikTok video posted on September 28, 2026, Karuri shared photographs from his younger years, offering a glimpse into a period when his appearance, career ambitions, and life looked very different from the person he is today.

Karuri revealed that he studied agribusiness economics and food industry management at university, with no intention of pursuing a career in beauty. He described himself during his university years as masculine and mature, with no idea that makeup and beauty would eventually become a significant part of his life. After completing his studies, Karuri secured a job in a government office but soon found himself questioning whether he had chosen the right career path.

The loss of his mother during his second year at university was a turning point for Karuri, describing it as one of the most painful experiences of his life. His mother was his biggest cheerleader, constantly encouraging him to pursue his dreams. Karuri recalled her telling him that he would become a superstar and build houses for her. Her death deeply affected him, and he went through a period of feeling lost and even contemplated ending his life.

Karuri eventually explored modelling, which introduced him to makeup and opened the door to a different side of his personality. He recalled the first time he had professional makeup applied to him, describing the experience as transformative. This experience helped him rediscover a sense of purpose and eventually drew him deeper into the beauty industry.

Karuri has since established himself as a professional makeup artist, working with public figures and building a substantial following across social media. His journey into beauty was unexpected, but he has become a well-known figure in the industry. Karuri's story serves as a reminder that life can take unexpected turns, and it's never too late to discover new passions and pursue new dreams.

Reflecting on his journey, Karuri encouraged his followers to discover who they are rather than allowing other people's expectations to determine the direction of their lives. He urged his audience to stay authentic and true to themselves, a message that resonated with many of his followers.

Karuri's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of staying true to oneself. His journey into the beauty industry was not straightforward, but he has emerged as a successful makeup artist and content creator. As he continues to build his brand and inspire his followers, Karuri's story serves as a reminder that it's never too late to pursue new passions and discover new purpose.

Key points

  • Dennis Karuri's journey into the beauty industry was shaped by his experiences with grief and career doubts.
  • Karuri's story serves as a reminder to stay authentic and true to oneself.
  • The makeup artist has established himself as a successful figure in the beauty industry, working with public figures and building a substantial social media following.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.