Josephine Mbuthia: Breaking barriers and overcoming challenges as a female emcee

Navigating a male-dominated industry is no easy feat, but Josephine Mbuthia - better known as MC Joss - is proving that female emcees can thrive in the world of events and entertainment. 

As more and more women make their mark in this dynamic field, Joss stands out for her energy, professionalism and undeniable stage presence.  

What began as a hobby has quickly become a full-fledged career - one she embraces wholeheartedly.  

"As an MC, you are the face and voice of an event. You set the tone, create the atmosphere and ensure that attendees have the best experience possible," she explains.  

Her journey began in 2019, when she took on her first gig as a hype lady at a wedding. Nervous but determined, she embraced the opportunity and used the experience to identify areas for growth.  

"I was worried that I wouldn't be able to engage the audience, but I took it as a learning experience. I even did it for free," she recalls.  

From there, Joss actively sought out opportunities to hone her craft. She volunteered at a variety of events, regardless of audience size, gaining experience through hands-on practice and self-assessment. 

Fellow emcees played a crucial role, inviting her to events and offering her moments on the mic to build her confidence.  

Two years later, she landed her first paid gig - earning Sh2,500 for a wedding. Since then, her rates have increased significantly, with some events now paying her up to Sh25,000.  

Despite her success, the journey hasn't been without its challenges. Breaking into the industry as a female MC comes with its own set of hurdles, from securing gigs to overcoming prejudice.  

"Clients often hesitate when they hear that a female MC has been recommended. Many assume a male MC is more authoritative," she says.  

Understanding her audience is key to her approach. She carefully curates her set based on the nature of the event, ensuring she strikes the right tone and connects with attendees.  

Preparation is another essential part of her process. "I always meet clients for rehearsals at least a week before the event. For weddings, I rehearse with the bridal party to build rapport and ensure a smooth flow on the big day," she says.  

Beyond her success, Joss hopes to inspire other women to break barriers in the entertainment industry. 

Her vision includes organising events that uplift female MCs and hype ladies in Nakuru, helping them gain visibility and establish their names in the industry.  

With resilience and passion, MC Joss is not only commanding the stage - she is redefining the industry for the next generation of female entertainers.