Winnie Odinga: My EALA MP Job is Just a Side Hustle

East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Winnie Odinga says her job at the regional parliament is not her primary source of income.

Winnie, who is the last-born daughter of opposition leader Raila Odinga, said she earns most of her income from her digital communications company dubbed The Brick House Counsel.
 
"I have been around the world; I have met kings, queens, celebrities and world leaders. I have been a photographer in my past life, a campaign manager, a writer, and now am a CEO of a digital communication firm. I do this side gig where I am the youngest female MP for Kenya in the East Africa Legislative Assembly," said Winnie.

The 33-year-old, who describes herself as the “child of the struggle”, spoke in Karen during a luncheon to commemorate one-year anniversary of beauty brand Phoina Beauty, which is owned by entrepreneur Phoina Tosha.

Winnie underscored the importance of women to have self-confidence and competence to succeed in life.

"We (women) are the only group in this country who are told how to do everything; how to dress, how to look, how to speak, when you should be married and when you should have children. We are the only group that's brought down and controlled every single thing," said Winnie.

"In those maandamanos nobody is told how to dress. When I go for political rallies in Marsabit, I have to wear a hijab. When I go to church in Luo Nyanza I must wear a dress and It has to be floored. When I go anywhere the first thing that we are judged on is our appearance but those things only have power as long as we give it to them. Your confidence begins with what you allow people to tell you about yourselves,” she added.