WELCOME TO MY JOURNEY
Lavender
Oyugi
Entrepreneur | Business Operations | Data Analytics | AI & Digital Solutions
I transform ideas into practical solutions.
My career has taken me from entrepreneurship and business development in Kenya to operations, retail and data analytics in France.
Today my mission is helping organisations improve operations through technology, business intelligence and continuous learning.
Professional Highlights
An overview of the experiences, skills and values that define my professional journey.
Entrepreneurial Leadership
Founder and leader of a real estate business in Kenya with experience in team leadership, client relations and business growth.
Data Analytics
Transforming data into actionable insights using Power BI, SQL, Excel, Python and modern analytics tools.
AI & Digital Solutions
Building modern websites, digital platforms and technological solutions that enhance efficiency and user experience.
International Experience
Combining entrepreneurial experience from Kenya with professional development in France to create practical and international solutions.
Professional Journey
From Curiosity to Leadership
Every chapter of my career has contributed to who I am today. Beginning with customer service and business operations in Kenya, progressing into regional business development, entrepreneurship, relocating to France on 27 September 2022, and continuing into data analytics and business operations—each experience has strengthened my ability to solve problems, lead teams, and create value through technology and business.
Work Experience
2008 – 2010
Customer Service Assistant • Computer Operator • Branch Manager
Royal Photo Studio • Kitengela, Kenya
I began my professional career immediately after completing secondary school. Starting in customer service and office administration, I quickly gained the trust of the business owner through reliability, professionalism, and strong computer skills. I was later promoted to independently manage a newly opened branch, where I became responsible for daily operations, customer service, sales, cash handling, and business performance.
Key Responsibilities
- • Welcomed and assisted customers.
- • Produced passport and studio photographs.
- • Prepared and formatted documents using computer applications.
- • Printed, photocopied, laminated and spiral-bound documents.
- • Sold stationery and office products.
- • Handled daily cash transactions and reconciliations.
- • Managed stock and inventory levels.
- • Opened and closed the business each day.
- • Managed the branch independently.
- • Delivered excellent customer service.
- • Worked towards daily sales targets.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Earned the owner's trust and was selected to independently manage a newly opened branch at an early stage of my career.
Career Impact
This experience laid the foundation for my professional journey by developing my confidence, customer service skills, business discipline, leadership, and ability to work independently. It also sparked my long-term interest in business operations, continuous improvement, and entrepreneurship.
What I Learned
Every great career begins with the willingness to learn. Curiosity, consistency and dedication opened doors I never imagined.
2010 – 2012
Regional Sales & Business Development Manager
House of Knowledge Publishers • Kenya
Managed the development of the publisher's market across Kenya's Coastal Region, independently identifying new business opportunities, establishing relationships with schools and bookshops, negotiating commercial agreements, and growing regional demand for educational publications. Operated with full autonomy, managing territory planning, customer acquisition, product delivery, payment collection, and business development activities.
Key Responsibilities
- • Developed new business opportunities throughout the Coastal Region.
- • Visited schools, bookshops and educational institutions.
- • Presented educational materials to teachers and school leaders.
- • Negotiated commercial agreements.
- • Built long-term customer relationships.
- • Managed product deliveries.
- • Planned weekly travel schedules independently.
- • Collected payments and managed customer accounts.
- • Expanded awareness of newly published educational books.
- • Collaborated with publishers regarding inventory.
- • Managed an entire sales territory independently.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Successfully introduced the publisher's books throughout Kenya's Coastal Region, building a sustainable network of schools and bookshops while developing innovative distribution and commission strategies.
Career Impact
This role transformed my understanding of business development, strategic planning, negotiation, and entrepreneurship. It taught me that sustainable growth comes from building trust, creating value, and developing long-term relationships rather than simply making sales.
What I Learned
Helping businesses and customers succeed taught me that lasting relationships are built on trust, communication and reliability.
Apr 2023 – Sep 2023
Cleaning Operative
3S Propreté • Nivillac, France
My first professional role after relocating to France. Working at 3S Propreté gave me valuable insight into the French workplace while helping me develop discipline, attention to detail and confidence in a completely new environment.
Key Responsibilities
- • Maintained high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
- • Followed strict health and safety procedures.
- • Organised daily tasks efficiently to meet quality standards.
- • Worked independently and as part of a team.
- • Delivered reliable and consistent service.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Successfully entered the French workforce and adapted to a new professional environment within months of arriving in France.
Career Impact
This experience taught me that every opportunity contributes to personal growth and reinforced the importance of resilience, commitment and maintaining high standards regardless of the role.
What I Learned
Every honest job has value. This experience strengthened my discipline, adaptability and respect for every profession.
Oct 2023 – Dec 2023
Restaurant Server
Campanile • Trignac, France
Working in the restaurant at Campanile allowed me to strengthen my French communication skills while delivering excellent customer service in a fast-paced hospitality environment. The role required efficiency, teamwork and attention to customer satisfaction throughout every service.
Key Responsibilities
- • Welcomed customers and provided friendly, professional service.
- • Took food and beverage orders accurately.
- • Served meals and drinks efficiently.
- • Prepared and organised dining tables before and during service.
- • Handled customer payments.
- • Maintained cleanliness of the dining area.
- • Updated the daily menu ('Plat du Jour') on display boards and computer systems.
- • Worked closely with kitchen and restaurant colleagues during busy service periods.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Improved my confidence communicating in French while providing quality customer service in a demanding hospitality environment.
Career Impact
This role taught me the importance of working efficiently under close supervision, maintaining high service standards and ensuring every customer received a positive experience.
What I Learned
Excellent customer service is about listening carefully, staying calm under pressure and making every person feel welcome.
Life Milestones
Key personal moments that influenced my professional decisions and strengthened my resilience.
July 2011
Becoming a Mother
Personal Milestone • Kenya
Welcoming my first son became one of the most meaningful turning points in my life. It inspired me to build a career that offered both professional growth and the flexibility to support my family. Rather than seeing motherhood as a limitation, I saw it as motivation to create opportunities of my own.
Key Responsibilities
- • Balanced new family responsibilities with career planning.
- • Identified entrepreneurship as a path to greater flexibility.
- • Prepared to launch my first independent business.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Turned a major life change into the motivation to become an entrepreneur.
Career Impact
This milestone shaped the mindset that has guided every stage of my career: embracing change, taking initiative and building opportunities through determination.
What I Learned
Some of life's greatest responsibilities become the beginning of our greatest achievements.
2016 – 2018
Family, Relocation & Education
A New Chapter • Kenya
In 2016, I relocated to another town to begin a new chapter with my family. During this period I welcomed my second son in September 2016, made the difficult decision to close my boutique, and reflected on the direction of my future. Believing that continuous learning creates new opportunities, I enrolled at Mount Kenya University in January 2018 to strengthen my business knowledge before starting my next venture.
Key Responsibilities
- • Relocated to begin a new family chapter.
- • Closed an established business after relocating.
- • Balanced family responsibilities with long-term career planning.
- • Returned to university to continue professional development.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Successfully transformed a major life transition into the foundation for future professional growth.
Career Impact
This period reinforced that personal growth and professional development often go hand in hand, preparing me to build my next business with greater knowledge and experience.
What I Learned
Every ending creates space for a new beginning when we choose to keep learning.
Entrepreneurial Journey
2012 – 2016
Founder & Managing Director
Lavish Boutique • Likoni, Lunga Lunga Road, Kenya
Founded and successfully managed an independent retail business that evolved from a stationery and bookshop into a diversified retail store. By continuously analysing customer needs and market opportunities, I expanded the business to include cosmetics, clothing, handbags, household products and second-hand fashion, creating a sustainable year-round business beyond seasonal book sales.
Key Responsibilities
- • Founded and managed the business from concept to daily operations.
- • Developed business growth strategies based on customer demand and seasonal trends.
- • Managed supplier relationships and negotiated wholesale purchasing agreements.
- • Travelled to source inventory directly from wholesalers.
- • Managed budgeting, banking, cash flow and profitability.
- • Analysed daily and monthly sales performance.
- • Recruited, trained and supervised employees.
- • Managed inventory, merchandising and pricing strategies.
- • Resolved customer concerns and operational challenges.
- • Introduced promotions and customer loyalty initiatives.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Successfully transformed a small stationery and bookshop into a diversified retail business while creating employment opportunities and building a loyal customer base through excellent service and continuous business innovation.
Career Impact
Strengthened my leadership, decision-making, financial management and business development skills while proving that long-term success comes from understanding customers, adapting to change and continuously improving operations.
What I Learned
Entrepreneurship taught me to see opportunities where others saw obstacles, and to lead with resilience, creativity and determination.
2019 – 2022
Founder | Property & Real Estate Operations Manager
Tourlover Realtors (Registered as Hudden Realtors) • Diani, Kenya
Founded and managed a real estate and property management company providing commercial property management, real estate consultancy, holiday rental management and hospitality coordination. Built trusted relationships with property owners, tenants and international visitors while ensuring high-quality service delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- • Managed commercial properties and ensured timely rent collection.
- • Maintained strong relationships with tenants and property owners.
- • Assisted clients in buying and selling land and residential properties.
- • Marketed properties across multiple channels.
- • Managed holiday rentals and Airbnb properties.
- • Coordinated hotel reservations and accommodation logistics.
- • Organised airport transfers, excursions, safaris and local activities.
- • Conducted property inspections and quality checks.
- • Prepared employment and client contracts.
- • Coordinated maintenance, cleaning and operational services.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Successfully managed an entire commercial complex, coordinated accommodation for groups of more than 100 guests and built a reputation that continues to generate client referrals.
Career Impact
Strengthened my expertise in operations management, customer service, strategic communication and business leadership while learning that trust, transparency and professionalism are the foundations of sustainable business success.
What I Learned
Managing people, properties and client expectations showed me that professionalism is built on integrity, organisation and trust.
Training & Education
Continuous learning has always been one of the driving forces behind my personal and professional growth.
Jan 2018 – 2021
Bachelor of Business Management
Mount Kenya University • Mombasa, Kenya
After relocating to begin a new chapter with my family, I enrolled at Mount Kenya University to strengthen my knowledge of business management and leadership. While balancing family responsibilities, I continued developing the skills needed to build and manage sustainable businesses. My studies reinforced many of the practical experiences I had already gained through entrepreneurship while introducing me to strategic management, finance, marketing, human resource management and organisational leadership.
Key Responsibilities
- • Studied Business Management while raising a young family.
- • Applied academic knowledge to real business situations.
- • Developed analytical and strategic decision-making skills.
- • Strengthened leadership and organisational management capabilities.
- • Completed projects focused on business operations and management.
- • Balanced university studies with family responsibilities and entrepreneurship.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Successfully pursued higher education while balancing family life and preparing for the next stage of my entrepreneurial journey.
Career Impact
My university education strengthened my ability to combine practical business experience with academic knowledge. It gave me a broader understanding of business strategy, organisational leadership and sustainable growth, which later influenced the development of Tourlover Realtors.
What I Learned
Education doesn't replace experience—it gives you the knowledge to understand why experience works and how to build something even better.
2024
Data Analyst Bootcamp
Wild Code School • Remote, France
Determined to combine my business background with technology, I enrolled in the intensive Data Analyst Bootcamp at Wild Code School. Over five months, I developed practical skills in data analysis, business intelligence and programming while working on real-world projects using industry-standard tools. This experience marked my transition from business operations into digital technology and data-driven decision making.
Key Responsibilities
- • Completed an intensive full-time Data Analyst programme.
- • Cleaned, analysed and visualised datasets.
- • Developed dashboards using Power BI and Tableau.
- • Worked with SQL databases and Python.
- • Performed exploratory data analysis.
- • Presented analytical findings through business reports.
- • Completed collaborative projects using Agile methodologies.
- • Used Git and GitHub for version control.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Successfully completed an intensive Data Analyst Bootcamp while building practical business intelligence and analytics projects.
Career Impact
The programme transformed my career direction by combining my years of business management experience with modern data analysis and digital technologies, opening opportunities in business intelligence, operations improvement and digital transformation.
What I Learned
Data tells stories that numbers alone cannot. Learning to transform information into meaningful insights has changed the way I solve problems.
Life Transition
27 September 2022
A New Beginning in France
Life Transition • France
After years of building businesses and studying Business Management in Kenya, I relocated to France to begin a new chapter with my family. Moving to a new country meant leaving behind my businesses, professional network and familiar environment. It also meant adapting to a new language, culture and job market while remaining determined to continue growing both personally and professionally.
Key Responsibilities
- • Adapted to a completely new cultural and professional environment.
- • Learned French and developed confidence communicating in everyday and professional situations.
- • Built a new professional network from the ground up.
- • Researched the French employment market and training opportunities.
- • Balanced family responsibilities while rebuilding my career.
- • Remained committed to continuous learning and long-term professional development.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Successfully rebuilt my professional journey in a completely new country while embracing a new language, culture and career path.
Career Impact
This experience strengthened my resilience and reinforced my belief that every challenge is an opportunity to learn, grow and create new possibilities.
What I Learned
Starting over in a new country reminded me that resilience is one of my greatest strengths. Every challenge became an opportunity to grow.
Career Orientation
Exploring the French labour market helped me discover my passion for technology and digital transformation.
Dec 2023 – Mar 2024
Career Orientation & Professional Development
CFC Presqu'île • Trignac, France
After gaining my first work experience in France, I joined the Orientation Professionnelle programme at CFC Presqu'île to better understand the French employment market and define my long-term career goals. The programme strengthened my confidence, helped me identify my professional strengths and introduced me to new career opportunities in the digital sector.
Key Responsibilities
- • Explored the French labour market and employment opportunities.
- • Identified personal strengths, achievements and long-term career objectives.
- • Developed professional confidence through individual and group activities.
- • Created and improved CVs and job application documents.
- • Learned effective job-search techniques and interview preparation.
- • Supported fellow participants with computer skills and digital tools.
- • Researched professional training opportunities across France.
- • Discovered Wild Code School, ARINFO and Espace Numérique during career research.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Successfully defined a new professional direction in France while helping other participants improve their digital skills and confidence with computers.
Career Impact
This programme became a turning point in my career. It helped me recognise that my future could combine my business experience with digital technology, ultimately leading me to Wild Code School, ARINFO, volunteer work in digital inclusion and the professional path I continue to build today.
What I Learned
Sometimes the right opportunity doesn't come from searching for a job—it comes from discovering a new direction.
2024
Career Discovery Internship
ARINFO • Saint-Nazaire, France
During my Career Orientation programme at CFP Presqu'île, I completed a two-week internship at ARINFO to explore careers in digital technology and better understand the French tech sector. This experience introduced me to software development, web design, digital communication and project-based learning while confirming my growing interest in technology and continuous learning.
Key Responsibilities
- • Observed digital professionals in their daily work.
- • Discovered software development and web technologies.
- • Learned about digital design and user experience.
- • Participated in practical workshops and collaborative activities.
- • Explored career opportunities in the digital sector.
- • Strengthened my understanding of technology careers in France.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Confirmed my interest in digital technology and strengthened my confidence to pursue a career transition into the tech sector.
Career Impact
This internship became one of the first steps towards my future career in technology and inspired me to continue learning through Wild Code School and volunteer work in digital inclusion.
What I Learned
Sometimes discovering a new career starts with having the courage to explore something completely different.
2024
Digital Inclusion Discovery Placement
Espace Numérique PEP44 • Saint-Nazaire, France
As part of my professional orientation journey, I completed an immersion at Espace Numérique PEP44 where I discovered the importance of digital inclusion. Observing digital facilitators supporting people with technology inspired me to combine my passion for helping others with my growing interest in digital tools.
Key Responsibilities
- • Observed digital support sessions.
- • Learned how digital facilitators assist the public.
- • Discovered digital inclusion initiatives.
- • Supported participants with basic computer tasks.
- • Improved communication and teaching skills.
- • Explored community-based digital services.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Discovered a professional environment where technology is used to empower people and reduce digital exclusion.
Career Impact
This experience later inspired me to volunteer as a Digital Facilitator, helping others build confidence with computers and digital services.
What I Learned
Technology has the greatest impact when it helps people become more confident and independent.
Professional Experience
Each role strengthened my adaptability while building my understanding of the French workplace.
2024
Checkout Operator
Carrefour • Saint-Nazaire, France
Worked as a checkout operator in a busy retail environment, delivering efficient customer service while developing confidence in the French workplace. The role strengthened my communication skills, attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.
Key Responsibilities
- • Processed customer purchases accurately.
- • Handled cash and card transactions.
- • Provided excellent customer service.
- • Resolved customer queries professionally.
- • Maintained an organised checkout area.
- • Worked efficiently during busy periods.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Built confidence working directly with French customers in a high-volume retail environment.
Career Impact
This role strengthened my adaptability, resilience and communication skills while improving my understanding of French retail operations.
What I Learned
Every customer interaction is an opportunity to build trust and create a positive experience.
2025
Checkout Operator
Intermarché • Pornichet, France
Worked as a checkout operator in a fast-paced supermarket, providing excellent customer service while ensuring efficient and accurate transactions. This experience strengthened my confidence, speed and ability to manage demanding workloads.
Key Responsibilities
- • Processed purchases efficiently.
- • Handled cash and electronic payments.
- • Provided friendly customer service.
- • Maintained checkout accuracy.
- • Resolved customer concerns.
- • Worked collaboratively with colleagues.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Successfully maintained excellent customer service standards while working in a busy retail environment.
Career Impact
Improved my confidence, communication skills and ability to work efficiently under pressure.
What I Learned
Consistency and professionalism create lasting impressions long after a transaction is completed.
2026 – Present
Sales Assistant
Au Fil des Lots • Trignac, France
Currently working as a Sales Assistant in a dynamic retail environment where I contribute to merchandising, customer service, stock management and daily store operations. The role continues to strengthen my organisational skills, adaptability and understanding of retail business operations while I pursue my long-term career goals in business and technology.
Key Responsibilities
- • Assist customers with purchases and product enquiries.
- • Restock shelves and organise merchandise displays.
- • Receive and process deliveries.
- • Maintain an attractive sales floor.
- • Support inventory management.
- • Contribute to smooth daily store operations.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Continued building strong retail operations experience while balancing professional development and personal projects.
Career Impact
This role continues to strengthen my operational mindset and reinforces the importance of teamwork, organisation and customer satisfaction.
What I Learned
Growth comes from giving your best in every role while never losing sight of your long-term vision.
Volunteer Experience
Giving back to the community while helping others develop digital confidence.
2024 – Present
Digital Facilitator (Volunteer)
Espace Numérique PEP44 • Saint-Nazaire, France
Alongside my professional development, I volunteer as a Digital Facilitator at Espace Numérique PEP44, supporting people of different ages in developing essential digital skills. I assist participants with computer literacy, Microsoft Office, online services and digital confidence, helping bridge the digital divide within the local community.
Key Responsibilities
- • Support learners using computers and digital tools.
- • Teach Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- • Assist with online administrative procedures.
- • Help participants create professional CVs.
- • Provide one-to-one digital support.
- • Promote digital inclusion within the community.
- • Encourage confidence in using technology.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Helped numerous participants gain confidence using digital tools while strengthening my own communication and mentoring skills.
Career Impact
Volunteering reminded me that technology becomes truly valuable when it empowers people. It strengthened my passion for education, digital inclusion and lifelong learning.
What I Learned
One of the most rewarding parts of learning is having the opportunity to help someone else grow.
Current Entrepreneurial Project
Continuing to build new opportunities through entrepreneurship, technology and digital innovation.
2026 – Present
Founder
Lavender Finds • France
Lavender Finds is my current entrepreneurial project, combining my passion for sourcing unique products with digital marketing and e-commerce. Through online platforms such as Vinted, Leboncoin and social media, I curate carefully selected home décor, fashion and lifestyle products from Europe and Kenya while continuously learning modern digital business strategies.
Key Responsibilities
- • Source unique products across France.
- • Research product demand and market trends.
- • Create product photography and listings.
- • Manage online sales platforms.
- • Develop digital marketing content.
- • Handle customer communication and order fulfilment.
- • Manage branding and social media presence.
- • Build my own professional website.
Skills Developed
Achievement
Successfully launched a new entrepreneurial venture while simultaneously developing my professional portfolio website and expanding my digital skills.
Career Impact
Lavender Finds represents the combination of everything I have learned throughout my career—business management, customer service, technology, marketing and continuous learning. It demonstrates my commitment to building modern digital businesses while creating value for customers.
What I Learned
Entrepreneurship is no longer just about opening a business. Today it's about combining technology, creativity and continuous learning to create meaningful experiences.
LET'S STAY CONNECTED
Let's Build Something Together
Thank you for taking the time to explore my journey. This portfolio is a living project that continues to evolve with every new experience, achievement and professional milestone.
Whether you are a recruiter, collaborator, entrepreneur or simply want to connect, I would love to hear from you.
Lavender Oyugi
Business Operations • Entrepreneurship • Data Solutions
Why I Do What I Do
I believe technology, business and entrepreneurship can create opportunities that change lives. My passion is helping organisations grow through innovation, continuous learning and digital solutions while sharing my own journey.
Explore My Work
Send a Message
I'd love to hear from you! Whether you have a job opportunity, collaboration idea, business enquiry or simply want to say hello, feel free to send me a message.
📧 lavenderoyugi@gmail.com
📍 Saint-Nazaire, France
🌍 English • French • Swahili