Beneath the Fame - Laureen Natalia (Artist )

Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your background?

My name is Lauren Natalia from Samburu county. A 22 years old student at Mount Kenya university and an upcoming artist.

I have always believed that i make a positive impact in people's lives. I am a youth representative at lulu community empowerment organization

How did you get started in your career?

I loved the thought of helping young girls understand the disadvantages and dangers of FGM and making then understand why they need to be independent and that's why I joined lulu community empowerment organization also started music. Me and my sister heard each other singing and we hyped ourselves to the studio. We were shy and didn't really know if that's what we wanted to do but we did and we loved it

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Being able to stand in front of people while performing has given me a lot of courage and it has made me engage with a lot of people who have helped me grow a bit more in the industry

What are some of the challenges you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them?

My greatest challenge has been staying in the career because, as a girl the society doesn't expect me to be out entertaining people with my music. I got a lot of lectures but doing what I do makes me happy so i kept pushing. I have had problems with having a long term producer who is there for long hence having multiple once and ending up with unfinished projects but I'm yet to find one that is available when i need to record I also have had financial problems where paying for a music video that is quality has been a challenge. I am working hard towards having quality videos to my songs

Are there any particular projects or roles that have been especially meaningful to you?

I just released my first original song "you”. most days, mostly I do covers of other people's songs but i went on to write my own and it felt really good

What is your biggest accomplishment that you're most proud of?

My biggest accomplishment has been getting to campus. For me it's been a big win because where i come from, it’s challenging to get here

Who or what has been your biggest inspiration?

My mom has been my inspiration. Watching her find her way to success has helped me push myself to find what i want. she always has me setting goal and asking me to write down where i see myself in 5 years

What keeps you motivated in your work?

Support from people that have watched me grow

How do you handle criticism and setbacks?

I talk to myself and make sure that i understand that i have to be me. i also tell myself that if people don't criticize you, it means you are doing nothing with your life. I use it as an encouragement to work harder

How do you balance your personal life with your career?

I just live in the moment, if i am at work i do things relating to work and if I'm doing personal things, I don't involve work. I also make sure i know what to keep for myself and what to share with the world

What do you like to do in your free time?

I like to travel. something about traveling gives me a lot of peace and i also love seeing new places and beautiful environment. I also read novels and watch movies

Is there a particular hobby or interest that you enjoy outside of your work?

Yes, i enjoy traveling and swimming

What advice would you give to aspiring individuals who want to pursue a career similar to yours?

The rule is to always push forward even when it gets tough

What upcoming projects or ventures are you excited about?

I am excited about joining new summits to help girls and mother’s. it’s been a journey that i started and want to continue helping them find their voice

Where do you see yourself in the future, both personally and professionally?

I see myself changing a lot of lives. I see myself sitting in a room with big people and sharing my ideas on how to make a change. I also see myself super successful having things I've dreamt of

Favorite book/movie/song?

My favorite song is no body by Bien ft Darassa

Best piece of advice you've ever received?

Always choose you

One thing you can't live without?

For now, i need my mom but what i can't really live without is my sanity and peace of mind

Any hidden talents or surprising facts about yourself?

I'm kind hearted and i wear my heart on my sleeve

Your Social Media handles and platforms?

Instagram:official_.misstalia TikTok:samburu_sweetheart

Duke Entertainment Desk