Media personality Shaffie Weru, now at the helm of the county events team for Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, has unveiled the hurdles he confronted upon entering public service, primarily due to his unconventional appearance.
The man known for his numerous tattoos and distinctive earrings remains resolute in his commitment to making a positive impact in his newfound role.
In an exclusive interview with Nairobi News, Shaffie candidly acknowledged the skepticism and criticism he faced during his transition to public service due to his unconventional appearance.
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“When my boss appointed me for this role, there was a lot of backlash, from the earrings to the ink and beards, but the governor appointed me to do the job. These things have never hindered me from fulfilling my duties before. There are numerous young people working for him,” Shaffie explained.
Shaffie Weru’s appointment as the head of the county events team for the Nairobi Governor’s office took place in April, and his unique appearance was undoubtedly part of the package.
Reflecting on his experience working for the government, Shaffie highlighted how this opportunity had broadened his perspective and exposed him to a different side of life.
“Three years without a job can lead you down many paths, but I am working for someone who is cool and familiar to me. People perceive us differently [based on our outward appearances]. Working with the government has provided me with insight into another facet of life. In entertainment, you mostly know your friends and the party scene, but working for the county is an entirely different experience. We visit places like Kayole, Korogocho, and various other slums to serve the people there,” Shaffie shared.
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Meeting individuals facing challenging circumstances as part of his role for the county has had a profound impact on Shaffie, altering his perception of life beyond the glitz and glamour often associated with the entertainment industry.
“There is more to life than the hype and the party scene. It’s not just about making money; there are people who survive on one meal a day, and you have to be on the ground and witness that to appreciate life differently,” he emphasized.
Shaffie also took the opportunity to address misconceptions about his lifestyle, particularly those related to partying and drug use.
He clarified that, while some may harbor these assumptions, his track record of holding a radio job for 17 years is a testament to his commitment to conveying meaningful content and engaging with the public in a substantial manner.
“Some people still value me, but there is a misconception that people have about me, that I am only about drugs and alcohol. Had I been using drugs, there is no way I would have held my radio job for 17 years, consistently delivering valuable content to the public,” Shaffie affirmed. BY NAIROBI NEWS