This Kenyan start-up is modernising the beauty industry with innovative tech

Co-founder and Chief Product Officer Kebati Calvin revealed how Nakili is transforming the way salons and barbershops handle bookings and checkouts, addressing longstanding issues like queue management and inconsistent customer service.

In an interview with Global South World, Calvin discussed what inspired the idea and how challenging it has been to build the concept and operate the business in Kenya.

Nakili seeks to address the common issues faced by salons and barbershops in Kenya, where walk-in appointments often lead to chaotic queues and inconsistent customer experiences.

"So, what we found out is that sometimes it's hard for them to manage the queues. Sometimes it's hard for them to manage their bookings because you'll find a lot of people coming in almost the same time," Calvin said. "And therefore, the customer experience is not good."

Calvin's solution to this problem is Nakili. "our solution was solving just two things, one booking and checkouts and being able to help the management and Basic operation of salons," he explained.

Calvin shared that Nakili encountered several challenges along the way. "Getting technical people is not that easy. Most people have got very interesting CVs. But when you tell them to do something, it's not very easy. Calvin said. "But we have been able to gradually and systematically overcome that, the team is now gelled together."

Studies indicate that an appointment booking system can improve customer experience, which is essential for building a loyal customer base. Customers can schedule their appointments at their convenience and select their preferred barbe which allows them to build a relationship with their barber, which can lead to repeat business.

"When I came up with the idea, I talked to friends who ended up also becoming my co-founders. I pitched to them just like you pitch to any particular investor, showed them, and took them through it. They were receptive to the idea," Calvin told GSW about the support he received.

While the Kenyan government hasn’t directly invested in Nakili, supportive ICT policies and infrastructure have provided a solid foundation. "Kenya is a leader in ICT usage and also infrastructure. You know, the government has invested very well in that. That gives us a very good platform for us to build on."

Calvin’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to remain resilient and adaptable. “challenges are global, but solutions are local. So what works here might not work there,” he advised.

Watch the full interview: