From the lecture halls to the CEO’s desk, this has been Dilcon Kuria Kihoro’s reality since September 2024. Popularly known as “Dikky,” Dilcon is a third-year Bachelor of Business Information Technology (BBIT) student at Strathmore University and the founder and brains behind Gadgets by Kihoro, a fast-growing phone and accessories brand.

“Honestly, I saw a gap where people wanted reliable gadgets at a fair price, and that’s where I decided to step in,” he explains when asked what inspired him to venture into the technology gadget space. His love for technology began in childhood, a passion that ultimately led him to pursue a Bachelor of Business Information Technology (BBIT) at Strathmore University.

Dilcon Kuria Kihoro: Student by Day, Entrepreneur by Passion

For him, the classroom and the marketplace are not separate worlds but complementary ones. At a time when debates continue over whether formal education remains the key to success, Dilcon strongly believes in its value. “Absolutely!” He says when asked whether his course has helped him in business. “I have gotten to practice and understand areas such as marketing strategies, business planning, and financial management. Honestly speaking, it even made more sense why people should stay in school,” he adds with a laugh. 

Beyond academics, Strathmore University has played a pivotal role in shaping Dilcon’s entrepreneurial journey. He credits the institution for sharpening his networking skills and expanding his circle, both of which have directly impacted his business growth. 

“Strathmore has really helped me expand my network and meet many people who end up becoming clients or supporting the business,” he reflects. 

The university’s culture of discipline, from punctuality to its signature official dress code, has also instilled in him a sense of professionalism that translates seamlessly into the business world. Strathmore has opened doors to rooms and opportunities he once never imagined himself walking into, reinforcing the power of environment in shaping ambition.

Gadgets by Kihoro is a vibrant and fast-growing presence in the online marketplace. Leveraging his already successful personal social media background, Dilcon strategically transferred those skills to his business platforms. Today, his TikTok and Instagram pages boast approximately 4,165 and 11,000 followers, impressive milestones for a brand that recently marked its first year since launch.

When asked about the strategy behind this growth, his answer was structured and intentional. 

“Firstly, charity begins at home. The support of friends and family is what initially helped me hit 1,000 followers overnight when I first launched the pages,” he shares. “Secondly, working with influencers in the social media space, such as Jahleel, who is also a Strathmore student, helped expand the reach.” However, he emphasizes that credibility has been the most important factor. “Thirdly, and most importantly, building trust among my clients. This is done by faithfully delivering what I promise,” he concludes.

Like many young entrepreneurs, Dilcon admits that there have been moments when quitting felt easier, especially when things did not go as planned. “Yes,” he says honestly, acknowledging the weight of running a business while still in school. 

Yet, in those difficult moments, he chooses to refocus on the bigger vision. Balancing academics, internship responsibilities, and entrepreneurship is no small task, and time management remains his greatest challenge. However, he approaches it with clarity and intention. 

“It’s about prioritizing and setting boundaries. It can be overwhelming, but it’s not about doing everything. It’s about doing the right things with the time you have,” he explains. 

Ultimately, what keeps him going is the vision he holds for himself as a young dreamer, a determination to turn those ambitions into tangible reality.

At the core of Dilcon’s journey are values that guide both his business and personal life. Integrity, he says, is not negotiable. “I believe in being honest because trust is everything,” he explains, emphasizing that credibility is the foundation of any lasting brand. 

Equally important is consistency, the discipline of showing up every single day. “It’s not about what you have done today or what you have achieved today. It’s about showing up each day,” he reflects. 

To him, success is not measured merely in profit margins or popularity. “Success means impact, stability, peace, and happiness. It’s about building something that outlives me.” 

Looking ahead, Dilcon hopes to be remembered as someone who was innovative and resilient. His journey reflects a mindset focused on impact, legacy, and purpose, rather than short-term gains. To students who may be hesitant to start their own ventures, his advice is, “Start. Start small, start scared, but start. You learn as you go.” With this philosophy guiding him, Dilcon continues to turn vision into reality, proving that ambition, consistency, and courage can create extraordinary outcomes even before graduation.

Article Written by Natalie Irungu, BAC 3rd Year Student