The Chic In Me - Actress Joyce Maina
By: Judith Mutua
Posted on Monday, March 9, 2020
Joyce Maina - Her character is lovable and intriguing. Although she is an actress, she also describes herself as a commercial model; a super talented model as a matter of fact. It does not end there, she is also a fitness enthusiast.
How did you end up on the Switch TV’s ChatSpot show, and what is it about?
I got a call from the producer asking me if I’d be interested in being a guest host. It’s a talk show where we tackle real stories around the world and we give opinions on the same. We also play games and interview guests.
Is there anything about the show that makes you anxious?
When the camera is on me and only me I get a bit nervous cause I know thousands of people are watching.
When did you spark an interest in media?
I had my first experience as an actor when I was in a school play at the age of 11 years. Then my friends introduced me to commercial modeling while I was in university, which opened other doors for me like acting and now tv hosting.
So you followed this into university?
I studied International Business Management in university. I have acted as an actress for several years now, mostly local productions (TV series and movies). I have also done TV commercials. I am looking to take my skills international.
How was that experience?
I wasn’t very confident back then. I took rejection to heart and sometimes almost gave up cause of always being rejected and never getting any jobs. But I grew thicker skin and here I am now.
Tell us about your fashion journey
I was a bit of a tomboy growing up. I was actually looking at my baby pictures the other day and I noticed I was rarely ever in a dress.
I looked closely and I could see all the scars gotten from my tomboy shenanigans.
How does your work as an actress influence your style?
To be honest, I don’t think it does. Am aware of my fashion sense; my likes and dislikes, what I feel comfortable in and what I don’t.
But because it’s a character, I never say no to the wardrobe assigned to me during my acting roles. When I play the character, I try to commit 100 percent to being that person, including how I dress.
But I do end up picking a few things here and there. Like I wasn’t into wigs and doing my nails until I started playing the role of Collete on Selina (a Kiswahili telenovela).
What do you splurge on the most?
Am addicted to thrift shopping. I feel it’s the best way to mix and match outfits and come up with a unique look.
Who is your style icon?
Vanessa Mdee. Her style is so unique and she can pull off anything. The sexy long gowns, the short shorts, even just sweat pants and crop tops.
What would you say was your biggest break?
My acting skills landed me a major deal that involved me being featured the lead role on Sumu la Penzi, in 2014, a romantic comedy in Kenya.
What’s in store for you this year?
You’ll just have to wait and see. I like to work hard in silence and let my success makes all the noise.
What one word would you use on each of your ChatSpot’s co-hosts?
Nana- Sweetheart
Kush- Bold
Mwikali- Confident
One word to describe yourself?
Quirky. I have very peculiar behaviors and my traits are very different from what people expect. There is more to me that meets the eye. I believe that I am easy to get along with and tend to have a “can do attitude”. I believe everything is possible if you put your mind to it.
Are you single?
No
What is your thought on relationships?
They are great. Human beings weren’t built to be alone forever. Companionship and friendship is a great thing. But it takes work to make a relationship work. It not all rainbows and flower petals.
