Every Saturday, something magical happens at the Marula Green Market. It’s more than a marketplace- it’s a living, breathing canvas of culture, creativity, and connection.
As the team behind Utu Zawadi, we show up ready – mostly to sell, but also to tell stories, build relationships, and leave a little imprint of warmth in every interaction.
This particular Saturday felt like any other.
By mid-afternoon, the market had come alive. The hum of conversations, the laughter, the bargaining, the irresistible aromas- it was all in full swing.
My partner and I had split roles, as we often do. She was the magnet, welcoming customers to check out our variety of handcrafted products, while I was behind the scenes, updating stock and fine-tuning our website. Then she had to step away to take a call, and just like that, I was back on the frontline.
Now, if you’ve ever been at a busy market, you know this- people blur. Faces pass. Moments flicker. You don’t always stop to study every person… unless something about them makes you pause. Somehow, my eyes settled on her….
She wasn’t loud. She wasn’t trying to be noticed. However, there was something about her. A quiet confidence. Effortless elegance….. The kind that doesn’t ask for attention, but commands it anyway.
And then… the handbag. Oh, the handbag!
It rested on her arm like it belonged there – as if it, too, carried a story. There was history in how she held it. Grace. Familiarity.
I didn’t know her yet, but I knew one thing: this woman understands style!
She walked towards our stall, drawn by our oversized reed hats. I stood up, ready to welcome her – partly as a vendor, partly as a curious admirer.
She tried on a hat.
It fit her perfectly.
We started talking.
Where she comes from, reeds are called “isindu.” I smiled – it sounded so close to “Khamakindu,” the name we use in my own language. Just like that, we were no longer strangers – we were two women connecting over culture, craft, and shared roots.
She preferred the hats bigger- bold, statement pieces. I teased her, telling her she clearly knew how to make an entrance. She politely agreed.
I took the opportunity to ask about the handbag.
“Over 20 years old,” she excitedly said.
Twenty. Years!
And there it was- still stunning, still relevant, still alive. A masterpiece of natural fiber and timeless design. In that moment, I knew: I like this woman.
Our conversation deepened. She spoke of travels – to Manila, to Rio – of fashion, of exposure, of creativity. I found myself leaning in, absorbing every word. My mind intrigued and thinking of possibilities- ways to collaborate with her someday – blend her bold creativity, originality, and global perspective with our handicrafts.
I brought up our weaving classes, only to discover she already knew how to weave. Imagine that! She shared how she learned the craft from a young age, and honestly, it’s amazing. She is sharp, skilled, and a natural!
Her idea is that we should not just stop at basic weaving, and I couldn’t agree more. That’s exactly the spirit of Utu Zawadi – Every piece is crafted with intention, uniqueness, and thoughtfulness. We discuss how incorporating more creativity, more personalization, and more expression will make handcrafted products unique statement pieces in Kenya.
Now I was certain: this wasn’t just style—this was an intelligently creative mind. The kind that doesn’t follow trends – it creates them.
We took photos. Exchanged contacts.
“Save me as Jedidah Utu Zawadi,” I said.
“I’m Catherine,” she replied.
Simple. Unassuming.
Then, just as she stepped away, a couple approached her excitedly- “Dr. C!” Before completely walking away, I heard them talk about filming for The Real Housewives of Nairobi.
Wait… what? I quickly grabbed my phone.
Catherine Masitsa.
And just like that, the pieces of the puzzle fell perfectly into place! She’s a phenomenal celebrity whose aura shines through in her everyday life – not just in the spotlight. Dr. Catherine Masitsa aka Dr.C of the Real Housewives of Nairobi is:
- Founder of Samantha’s Bridal.
- Mind behind Samantha Wines.
- Veterinary surgeon. Publisher. Business mogul. Media personality.
I blinked. Because what struck me wasn’t who she is.
It was how she carried it. No noise. No name-dropping. No performance. Just presence.
It hit me – True success doesn’t announce itself. Real power doesn’t need permission to be felt.
And there I was… having just shared laughs, ideas, and dreams with a woman of immense influence without even realizing it!
Honestly? That made it even more special. Because for a moment, she wasn’t celebrity “Dr. C.” She was just Catherine. Brilliant. Grounded. Formidable in the most graceful way.
If you ever find yourself in Nairobi, don’t underestimate a Saturday at the Marula Green Market. You might come for the shopping, but you’ll leave with stories. And that’s the kind of encounter that stays with you!
- Find Utu Zawadi every Saturday at the Marula Green Market, Karen.
- Explore our handcrafted products and services at utuqualityworkplaces.com, TikTok @UtuZawadi, Instagram @UtuZawadi
- Join our weaving classes (Wednesdays & Saturdays).📞 Register early via 0727115443
Remember, the way we treat others should never be shaped by who we assume they are, but by the kind of people we choose to be. And in that choice lies Utu – the quiet, powerful reward of humane attributes that feel more fulfilling than anything else you could experience!
