Vape Nation: Unmasking the Growing Vaping Culture Among Kenyan Youth

 Vaping has rapidly gained traction among Kenyan youth, particularly in urban centers like Nairobi and Mombasa. Marketed as a trendy and less harmful alternative to traditional smoking, e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches have become increasingly popular among adolescents and university students. A 2025 study by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) revealed that 31% of university students use vapes, while 30.7% use nicotine pouches 

The appeal of vaping among youth is multifaceted. Flavored products like mango and cotton candy, sleek and discreet device designs, and aggressive marketing on social media platforms contribute to its allure. Peer influence plays a significant role, with over 66% of students reporting that friends introduced them to these substances . The misconception that vaping is harmless further exacerbates the issue

However, the health risks associated with vaping are substantial. Many young users are unaware that e-cigarettes often contain nicotine, leading to addiction and potential progression to traditional tobacco use. Health experts warn of severe lung conditions linked to inhaling certain flavoring chemicals, such as diacetyl, which can cause "popcorn lung"—a disease that damages the small airways in the lungs .

Regulatory responses in Kenya have been evolving. While the Tobacco Control Act of 2007 prohibits the sale of tobacco products to individuals under 18, enforcement remains a challenge. In 2025, the Ministry of Health suspended all existing licenses for the importation and distribution of nicotine products, mandating reapplication under stricter guidelines 

The rising trend of vaping among Kenyan youth underscores the need for comprehensive public health education and stricter enforcement of regulations. Addressing misconceptions about the safety of vaping and highlighting its health risks are crucial steps in curbing this growing epidemic.

Jean Chepkirui: A Passionate Model with a Heart for Community Impact

 Jean Chepkirui is a vibrant Kenyan fashion and pageant model from Nairobi who is gracefully blending beauty, talent, and purpose. As she contests for Miss Kasarani 2025, Jean brings more than just elegance to the stage—she brings a deep-rooted desire to inspire and uplift her community.

With a natural love for fashion, Jean expresses herself through bold styles and confident runway appearances. Her modeling journey is fueled by her creativity and her passion for performance, which also extends to her love for dancing and singing. Whether on stage or in front of the camera, Jean radiates charm, confidence, and authenticity.

Beyond the glamour, Jean is grounded in service. She holds a diploma in Community Development and Social Work, and is set to graduate later this year. Her academic background has shaped her into a compassionate and socially aware individual who is determined to give back. She hopes to use her platform to address youth issues, promote mental health awareness, and support underprivileged communities in Nairobi and beyond.

As a Miss Kasarani 2025 contestant, Jean is driven not just by the crown, but by the opportunity to be a voice of positive change. She believes that true beauty shines brightest when it uplifts others and leaves a lasting impact.

Jean Chepkirui is a shining example of grace, talent, and purpose. With her eyes on the future and her heart set on making a difference, she’s a role model in the making—ready to represent Nairobi with pride and passion

Exploring Career Paths in the Hospitality Sector

 The hospitality industry is one of the most dynamic and rewarding sectors globally, offering a wide range of career paths for individuals passionate about service, travel, and creating memorable experiences. In Kenya and around the world, this industry continues to grow, providing endless opportunities in hotels, restaurants, travel, tourism, and event management.

One of the most common career paths in hospitality is hotel management. Roles in this area include front office operations, housekeeping, guest relations, and general hotel administration. With the right training and experience, one can rise from a receptionist to a hotel manager or even a resort director.

Food and beverage services also play a major role in hospitality. Careers in this path range from chefs, bartenders, and waitstaff to restaurant managers and catering coordinators. Creativity and customer service are key skills in this field.

Event planning and management is another exciting area, involving organizing weddings, conferences, exhibitions, and social events. This path is ideal for individuals who enjoy coordination, logistics, and working in fast-paced environments.

Travel and tourism careers include tour guides, travel consultants, airline customer service, and destination marketing. These roles are perfect for people who love exploring and sharing cultural experiences.

There are also opportunities in cruise ship hospitality, spa and wellness management, and hospitality entrepreneurship, where individuals can start their own ventures such as guest houses, restaurants, or tour companies.

The hospitality industry values interpersonal skills, adaptability, and passion. With formal training and a commitment to excellence, anyone can build a successful and fulfilling career in this exciting sector. Whether you're people-oriented, creative, or adventurous, the hospitality industry has a place for you

Say It with Flowers: Uplifting Floral Choices for Hospital Visits

 Visiting a loved one in the hospital is a meaningful way to show care and support—and bringing flowers can brighten their day, lift their spirits, and help speed up emotional recovery. The right flowers send a beautiful message of hope, strength, and encouragement. But which blooms are best for a hospital visit?

1. Daisies
Bright, cheerful, and simple, daisies symbolize innocence and positivity. Their uplifting colors and soft appearance make them a perfect get-well choice for someone recovering.

2. Sunflowers
Known for their bold beauty and optimism, sunflowers radiate warmth and strength. They symbolize vitality and good health, helping to inspire joy and resilience.

3. Carnations
Carnations are long-lasting flowers that come in a variety of colors. Light pink and yellow carnations are especially comforting, symbolizing admiration and encouragement.

4. Tulips
Tulips are associated with new beginnings and renewal. Their soft, elegant form and vibrant colors help communicate comfort, care, and hope.

5. Roses (in soft colors)
While red roses are romantic, soft-colored roses—like white, pink, or yellow—are more appropriate for hospital visits. They represent friendship, healing, and gentle affection.

6. Orchids
Orchids are exotic and elegant, symbolizing strength and beauty. A potted orchid can be a lasting gift that keeps the recipient’s spirits high.

When choosing hospital flowers, always consider allergies, scent sensitivity, and hospital policies. Go for flowers with mild fragrances and calming colors. Ultimately, it’s the thought and love behind the gesture that matters most—let flowers help you say, “I wish you quick recovery'

Skylar Lexie: Rising Kenyan Fashion Star with Pageant Dreams

 Skylar Lexie is a bold and stylish Kenyan fashion model whose love for fashion and poise on the runway have made her one to watch in Nairobi’s modeling scene. Known for her elegance, confidence, and creativity, Skylar continues to make her mark in both fashion and pageantry. She is now stepping into the spotlight once again as a contestant for Miss Kasarani 2025, representing Nairobi County with grace and ambition.

Skylar’s modeling journey began with a deep passion for fashion. She finds joy in expressing herself through unique styles, bold outfits, and trendsetting looks. Her love for fashion goes beyond clothing—it's a statement of self-love, identity, and empowerment. She believes that fashion has the power to uplift and inspire, and she channels this energy in every shoot, show, and appearance.

In addition to her work in fashion, Skylar is a dedicated pageant model. Her journey through various modeling experiences has taught her discipline, self-confidence, and how to shine under pressure. Competing in Miss Kasarani 2025 is not just about the crown for Skylar—it’s about using the platform to grow, inspire others, and push boundaries in the modeling world.

With her eyes set on the title and her heart full of dreams, Skylar Lexie is ready to light up the Kasarani stage. She stands as a symbol of strength, style, and ambition—proof that with passion and determination, Kenyan models can rise and shine both locally and globally

Are Lead Batteries a Sustainable Solution to Environmental Challenges?

 In the quest for sustainable energy solutions, lead-acid batteries have remained relevant for decades. Often used in vehicles, solar power systems, and backup energy storage, lead batteries are cost-effective and widely available. However, their environmental impact has sparked debate—are they truly a solution, or part of the problem?

Lead batteries are among the most recycled products globally, with a recycling rate of over 95%. This high recyclability gives them a strong sustainability profile compared to many other battery types. In Kenya and other developing countries, lead-acid batteries are used in solar installations, powering homes in off-grid areas and promoting clean energy access. Their affordability and reliability make them a practical option in remote regions.

However, lead is a toxic heavy metal. Poor recycling practices, especially in unregulated environments, can expose people and ecosystems to harmful effects. Inadequate safety measures during manufacturing and disposal can lead to soil and water contamination, posing serious health risks. Children and workers in informal recycling sectors are especially vulnerable.

To ensure lead batteries support environmental goals, proper regulation, safe recycling, and public awareness are essential. Governments and manufacturers must enforce standards that reduce emissions and ensure safe handling throughout a battery’s lifecycle.

While not perfect, lead batteries can still play a vital role in sustainable energy systems when managed responsibly. They offer an accessible bridge to clean energy, especially in areas where lithium alternatives are too expensive. The future lies in improving recycling systems, advancing battery technology, and transitioning gradually to cleaner, safer energy storage options.

In conclusion, lead batteries are not the ultimate green solution, but with the right practices, they can contribute positively to environmental sustainability. Responsible usage, innovation, and policy enforcement will determine their true impact

Meet Mercy Wanja: The Bold Kenyan Fashion Model with Big Dreams

 Mercy Wanja is a Kenyan fashion model whose confidence, poise, and unwavering focus continue to inspire many in the modeling and pageantry world. With a strong presence and magnetic personality, Wanja has already made a name for herself through past pageant wins and is now eyeing the national spotlight as a contestant for Miss Kasarani 2025.

Her journey into pageantry began with grace and success. In 2019, Wanja was crowned Mrs. Personality Mwala, a title that celebrated her charm, authenticity, and warm spirit. The following year, she earned the Mrs. Confidence Mwala 2020 crown, solidifying her reputation as a bold, self-assured woman who commands attention both on and off the runway.

Now preparing for the Miss Kasarani 2025 pageant, Wanja is more focused than ever. She embodies the qualities of a modern model: disciplined, determined, and passionate about the fashion industry. Her ambition is not only to win but also to use the platform to elevate her modeling career to regional and international stages.

Wanja dreams of modeling across East Africa and eventually stepping onto global runways. She believes that with consistency, professionalism, and staying true to one’s roots, anything is possible. As she continues to grow in her journey, Wanja remains a symbol of resilience and inspiration for young aspiring models across Kenya.

With her head held high and dreams set far, Wanja is proving that confidence and vision can take you anywhere

Why Bluetooth Earbuds Are the Future of Personal Audio

 In today’s fast-paced, tech-savvy world, Bluetooth earbuds have become the go-to audio accessory for music lovers, fitness enthusiasts, and professionals on the move. Compared to traditional wired earphones, Bluetooth earbuds offer a modern and convenient listening experience that aligns with the needs of everyday life.

One of the biggest advantages of Bluetooth earbuds is wireless freedom. Without tangled cords, users can enjoy their favorite playlists or take calls effortlessly while walking, commuting, or working out. This freedom of movement enhances comfort and convenience, especially in active or multitasking environments.

Bluetooth earbuds also offer compact and sleek designs, often paired with portable charging cases, making them ideal for people constantly on the go. Many models now include advanced features such as noise cancellation, touch controls, and voice assistant integration, giving users a high-tech and immersive audio experience.

Unlike traditional earphones that depend on a headphone jack or USB port, Bluetooth earbuds connect easily to most devices, including smartphones, laptops, and smartwatches, regardless of port compatibility. This universal connectivity adds to their practicality in a world moving away from headphone jacks altogether.

Additionally, with better battery life and sound quality, Bluetooth technology has significantly improved over the years, allowing for longer listening hours and richer, more detailed audio.

While traditional earphones may still serve a purpose for some, the shift to Bluetooth earbuds marks a step into a wireless future—where mobility, style, and functionality come together. For those seeking comfort, convenience, and quality, Bluetooth earbuds are clearly the sound choice

Unlearning the Mirror: How Western Mindsets Have Colonized African Beauty Standards

 For generations, African beauty was rich in diversity, deeply rooted in cultural pride, and shaped by traditions that celebrated natural features such as dark skin, coily hair, full lips, and curvy bodies. But in today’s globalized world, these traditional ideals have been increasingly challenged—and in many cases, replaced—by Westernized beauty standards that continue to influence how African people, especially women, perceive themselves.

The colonization of African beauty did not end with political independence. From colonial times to the modern media age, Eurocentric ideals have been pushed through television, fashion magazines, beauty advertisements, and now, social media. Light skin, straight hair, slender bodies, and sharp European facial features are often upheld as the epitome of beauty. These ideals have created unrealistic expectations and contributed to the rise in skin bleaching, hair straightening, and cosmetic surgeries in many African societies.

This western infiltration of beauty standards has led to a dangerous disconnect—young African girls grow up seeing little representation of their natural features in the media, leading to lowered self-esteem and identity struggles. Many feel the pressure to conform to what is considered “beautiful” by global standards, rather than embracing their authentic selves.

However, a movement of cultural reawakening is taking root. African creatives, models, designers, and influencers are increasingly using their platforms to redefine and reclaim African beauty. From proudly wearing natural hair to celebrating melanin-rich skin, the tide is turning as more Africans challenge the old narratives and celebrate their heritage.

To truly decolonize beauty, we must go beyond trends and build a society that educates and empowers people to love themselves as they are. It means shifting how beauty is portrayed in schools, media, and entertainment—and promoting diverse, authentic African beauty across the board.

Beauty is not one-size-fits-all. It’s time Africa celebrates its own reflection in the mirror.