If you mention to your friends that you own a video game shop, many will assume that you are lazy or unserious.

However, two video game shop owners in Nakuru City are working hard to challenge these stereotypes.

Luke Lekishon, also known as Zus, ventured into the gaming business in April 2021.

While in high school, Zus aspired to be a rapper. He later shifted his focus to media studies and excelled, graduating with a first-class honours degree from St Paul's University.

After unsuccessfully looking for a job, he decided to open a video game shop, where he invested Sh500,000 to buy a PS5, screens, controllers and games.

"With the support of my parents, I was able to start my business called Fifa ya Zus," he says proudly.

According to him, the aim was to create a unique shop that would be welcoming to everyone, especially parents who take their children to play.

"I have a strict policy against idling and the use of drugs or substances in my shop," Zus insists.

He points out that his main customers are university students and the working class, as secondary school students are not reliable.

Interestingly, Zus says he manages to make an average profit of between Sh1,500 and Sh3,000 from his shop daily.

Another shop owner, Vincent Odinga, known as Chibu, shares Zus' view on the importance of professionalism in catering to the diverse needs of customers in the gaming industry.

Vincent Odinga, known as Chibu at his video game parlour.

Photo credit: MERCY KIHUGU/MTAA WANGU

Despite what he describes as challenging economic conditions, the 27-year-old can support his young family through his video game shop.

Chibu worked in a video game store for two years before deciding to open his shop.

"The move to open my own shop was a worthwhile risk as I earn between Sh1,000 and Sh2,500 daily, which is enough for me and my family," he says.

"It's important to understand that gaming is a source of income for young people, especially if they play professionally. Efforts should be made to nurture and commercialise the skills and talents they possess," adds Chibu.

Together, the two entrepreneurs are defying stereotypes and striving to create a positive and enjoyable gaming experience for their customers.

mercykihugu@gmail.com

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