Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your background?
My name is Lissah Neema, a student in Mount Kenya University Main Campus, pursuing Actuarial Science. I am 19 years old. Born in Meru and grew up there too. I am the firstborn in a family of two daughters and I’ve grown up with my mum, a very supportive and a strong woman indeed. I schooled in Maryanne Academy for a very long while, then changed to Isaacs’ Preparatory and later joined Glory Junior Academy. I then joined Materi Girls’ Centre in Tharaka Nithi county.
How did you get started in your career?
I started singing at quite a young age, around 6-7 years old. I remember doing the song “above all” by Lenny LeBlanc before a parents meeting, when I was in the then Class 2. How I got all those lyrics at such an age 😂 is still mind blowing. I then had chances to lead the rest during music festivals especially in the folk songs.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Joining the Revival Society under Sir Charles Finny, where I had a chance to be a back ground Vocalist to great, great ministers like Min.Kestin Mbogo,Rev Harriet ,Min.Jeremy Jeradi, and Min Sylvia Akoth. Being ministered too by the awesome Evelyn Wanjiru and Pastor Tumaini was such a blessing.
What are some of the challenges you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them?
Having friends with awesome vocals is indeed a blessing but if one ain’t careful, you’d have esteem issues. Being humble and patiently learning under them, with the understanding that you can do it too is what helped me through and I thank God. Also, it is good to Identify that our voices are uniquely different in one way or the other, either way we pursue excellence as we worship in truth and Spirit.
Are there any particular projects or roles that have been especially meaningful to you?
Yes, indeed. Being a background vocalist in the Revival Society during Revival Worship Edition 1,2023.
What is your biggest accomplishment that you’re most proud of?
Having been chosen as a background vocalist by the grace of God to great ministers like Kestin Mbogo, Sylvia Akoth, and Min.Jeremy Jeradi among other great ministers of the gospel.
Who or what has been your biggest inspiration?
The fact that I’m aware that I can get to where I want in life, and determination with consistency, of course adding prayer😁 is all I need
What keeps you motivated in your work?
The fact that my little lovely sister, Sherry Rehema, has been closely following my footsteps keeps me on toes and as a first born, I need to set the pace and be an example too. This should actually be a call to all First born that their siblings are really and closely watching them.
How do you handle criticism and setbacks?
The Lord has been really teaching me on fully trusting Him and not always rushing into telling out my issues, not that sharing issues is wrong, but look at it this way, what if all the people you’ve been running to are not available at some point, maybe they are busy, or they can’t pick your call at the time🥺, here you’d have a hard time opening up to God, or eventually use God as a backup plan. So I’d rather have God know my issues then with time, can share about to trusted allies because after all God uses men for us😊. He strengthens me through everything and I’m grateful.
How do you balance your personal life with your career?
It’s not as hard really, I just allocate time and have schedules on when to attend classes, and practice sessions too.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Listen to my favorite genre of gospel music and play the bass guitar too.
Is there a particular hobby or interest that you enjoy outside of your work?
Yes. I play lawn tennis🙃🎾 and the bass guitar too🎸
What advice would you give to aspiring individuals who want to pursue a career similar to yours?
They should go on in faith and that things will work out as they want some time and great doors will open. Keep being consistent and persistent, not forgetting to commit your plans to He who establishes them😊
What upcoming projects or ventures are you excited about?
Greater service in MKU CU Praise and Worship and Sound Ministry 😘❤,and also the Revival Worship Edition 2, 2024.
Where do you see yourself in the future, both personally and professionally?
Pure greatness😊. A rising Deborah indeed
Favorite book/movie/song?
In every situation you are God, a song by Minister Kestin Mbogo❤
Best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
That this life is mine and it is me to mold it for myself because no one else can do that for me and as a lady who pursues excellence, then I had to seriously take up the words.
One thing you can’t live without?
God🙂. He’s the maker and giver of everything including love, air and grace just to mention but a few.
Any hidden talents or surprising facts about yourself?
Apparently, I realized that I could host shows, create advertisements especially those of events and be a television and radio presenter.
Your Social Media handles and platforms?
IG- Lissahneema Tiktok- @lissahneema Facebook -Lissah Neema
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