Damaris Bell is a single mother whose life took an unexpected turn when she was fired from her job one morning. This unfortunate event became the catalyst for a remarkable breakthrough that would see her rise to become the founder of a thriving interior design company.
Her story is a one full of resilience, and through the kindness of strangers, and her unwavering determination to create a better life for herself and her son she has founded a successful company in interior design.
Here is her story as told by WoK.
Early Life, Family, and the Power of a Mother’s Support
Born into a humble family, the entrepreneur early years were shaped by her remarkable mother, who instilled in her the values of resilience and perseverance. Her mother became her biggest cheerleader, providing unwavering support and belief in her potential.
Damaris faced setbacks, including the untimely loss of her father, but her mother’s unwavering love and guidance propelled her forward.
A Sudden Turn: An Unexpected Job Loss to New Beginnings
One fateful morning, Damaris Bell arrived at work only to be informed by the watchman that she was not allowed to enter the premises. Devastated and confused, she soon learned that her refusal to work overtime due to her responsibilities as a single mother had led to her dismissal.
Though this turn of events was disheartening, little did Damaris know that it would become the catalyst for a new chapter in her life.
A Mother’s Inspiration
As a single mother, Damaris’s priorities were clear – to provide for and take care of her young son. It was this unwavering devotion that fueled her determination to find a way forward despite the challenges she faced.
On Selling Potatoes To Make Ends Meet
Financial struggles and the need to provide for her son led her to take on odd jobs, including selling potatoes in markets across the country. She narrates of how she would travel to Molo area to source for potatoes which she would sell in different markets including Kongowea in Mombasa. All along she tagged her young son along.
Molo is extremely cold and this would soon encroach to her son’s health making this venture an arduous task, compounded by his falling ill due to their constant travel.
The Pursuit of Interior Design
In the midst of uncertainty, Damaris discovered a hidden passion for interior design. With a natural eye for aesthetics and a keen interest in creating beautiful spaces, she realized that this was the field where she could truly flourish.
However, as she narrated in an interview with Lynn Ngugi, Damaris faced discouragement from people around her including the college that she applied encouraging her to seek a new career path.
Strangers Turned Allies: Guiding Damaris Along the Way
Throughout her journey, Damaris encountered unexpected acts of kindness from a stranger who recognized her talent and potential. The man she recognizes as Mugo, became her mentor, offering guidance, support, and invaluable opportunities to learn and grow in his construction company.
Damaris embraced these relationships, seizing every chance to expand her knowledge and refine her craft.
A Thriving Design Company: Uplifting Others
Today, Damaris Bell is the proud founder and owner of a thriving interior design company. Her expertise and unique design aesthetic have garnered her a reputation as one of the most sought-after designers in the country.
But Damaris’s journey doesn’t end with her own success. She is committed to uplifting others, particularly single mothers and aspiring designers, by sharing her knowledge and offering mentorship to help them overcome their own challenges and realize their potential. This is through her initiative dubbed ‘Dada Fundi.’
