The bustling city of Nairobi is home to countless stories of ambition, resilience, and success.
Among the latest names to shine in the vibrant world of fashion and beauty is Deqa Salad Mohamed.
As a self-taught makeup artist, Deqa has carved out a niche in a field that was once underappreciated in Kenya but is now flourishing alongside the ever-evolving global beauty industry.
A Journey of Determination and Discovery
Deqa Salad’s story began in Moyale, a small town in Kenya, where she was born into a large family of 10 siblings—9 sisters and a brother.
Her parents, Salad Mohamed and Lula Siraj Muzayin, provided a solid foundation rooted in education and entrepreneurship.
Her father, the director of Moyale Hospital, tragically passed away in 2001, leaving her mother, a businesswoman, to support the family.
Despite these early challenges, Deqa was inspired by her mother’s entrepreneurial spirit.
This influence shaped her mindset and prepared her for future opportunities. After relocating to Nairobi, she lived with relatives while seeking her footing in the city.
In Eastleigh, a vibrant and diverse neighborhood, she discovered her passion for beauty and makeup artistry.
Initially self-taught, Deqa spent hours perfecting her craft. Her determination paid off as she began gaining recognition for her work. She soon opened her own beauty shop, where her reputation grew rapidly.
From weddings and birthday parties to baby showers and graduations, Deqa became the go-to makeup artist for women in Eastleigh, celebrated for her ability to enhance natural beauty with precision and creativity.
Overcoming Personal Tragedy
Deqa’s journey has not been without heartache. Her family endured immense loss over the years, starting with her father’s death.
In 2015, her sister Duniya passed away, leaving the family devastated.
Tragedy struck again in 2019 when another sister, Toto Salad, was tragically murdered in San Diego, California, in a case of domestic violence.
The incident, which made headlines, profoundly affected Deqa, as Toto had been a pillar of emotional and financial support.
“Toto was my biggest cheerleader,” Deqa shared. “She always encouraged me to face life with courage and positivity.”
Despite these hardships, Deqa found strength in her memories of her sister and used her pain as fuel to push forward in her career.
Thriving in the Beauty Industry
Today, Dekha Salad is a celebrated figure in Nairobi’s beauty scene. Her shop in Eastleigh is not just a hub for makeup artistry but also a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit.
In addition to offering makeup services, Deqa produces her own line of beauty products, tailored to meet the diverse needs of her clients.
Her clients often describe her as not just a makeup artist but a confidante and mentor. Deqa takes pride in sharing beauty tips and secrets with her clientele, fostering strong relationships built on trust and mutual respect.
“My clients always come back for more,” she says with pride. “It’s not just about makeup—it’s about making people feel confident and beautiful.”
A Bright Future
Deqa’s success story is an inspiration to many young Kenyans, particularly women, who dream of forging their own paths in the competitive world of business.
Her resilience, creativity, and determination have propelled her from humble beginnings to the forefront of Nairobi’s beauty industry.
As Deqa continues to expand her business, she remains committed to empowering others.
Through her work, she hopes to inspire the next generation of makeup artists and entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles.
Deqa Salad Mohamed embodies the essence of resilience, artistry, and entrepreneurship, proving that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.