If you're looking for a new internet bestie who exudes confidence, style, and all-around good vibes, look no further than Achieng Agutu. The Kenyan influencer is breaking barriers in every sector, from becoming a Sports Illustrated 2024 Rookie to hosting Amazon Prime's The Tastemakers, which is being described as Gen Z's version of The View. Aside from her successes, Achieng is just genuinely a wonderful creator to follow — it's no wonder that her positivity and style have earned her over a million followers across her social media platforms.
Distractify chatted with Achieng to learn about her favorite Kenyan dish, her biggest distractions, and more.
Talk about the moment you felt like you had "made it".
AA: When I saw the physical copy of Sports Illustrated with me and all the beautiful women... seeing that I have made it and done what I set out to do!
If you could switch lives with any celebrity for a day, who would it be and why?
AA: Nobody. I am the celebrity of my life.
If you could invite anyone to take part in your "confidence tour," who would you pick?
AA: Keke Palmer! She exudes all things Black woman excellence. Her confidence.
What's your hottest hot take?
AA: Pineapples belong on pizza!
What is one photo from your camera roll that makes you laugh every time you see it?
AA: There is a meme with a baby pointing up as his mother asks, "Who wants to go to the Four Seasons hotel?"
You've made so many incredible accomplishments so far in your career — what are you most proud of?
AA: I am proud of so many things. Very proud of how things have turned out, such as my career, and the career goals I've hit. So proud that I have a platform where people can feel seen, cry, laugh, and feel excited when they come to my page and leave feeling good.
Shout out one of your favorite fellow creators!
AA: Deandre Brown — so fabulous and amazing. As a Black gay man, he has shattered so many stereotypes. He is fabulous, fun, successful, and cool!
Tell us about your favorite Kenyan dish.
AA: It is Ugali, which is the equivilance of maize fufu with sauteed kale and a whole fried tilapia fish.
Who's the most famous person who has ever DM'd you?
AA: Taraji P. Henson and Savannah James.
How does it feel to have become an inspiration to women all over the world?
AA: It is exciting because I love women so much, and them wanting to better themselves, and being a girl's girl. It feels lit!
Share your top three desert-island necessities.
AA: Neutrogena Sport Active sunscreen, Topicals lip balm, and crisp water from Poland Springs.
What’s your No. 1 distraction?
AA: It is Bridgerton and TikTok and all the fabulous creators there.