Popular YouTuber and entrepreneur Thee Pluto, whose real name is Robert Ndegwa, recently shared candid insights into his challenging path toward financial independence. Known for his viral loyalty test videos and sharp business mindset, Pluto revealed how he dropped out of university to focus on building multiple businesses—an unconventional move that came with significant risks, losses, and ultimately, valuable lessons.
In an interview with TV47, Thee Pluto recounted how he secretly quit campus, keeping his parents in the dark for some time. “My parents only found out after my cousin graduated,” he said. “I told them that there was one year I was not in school, but I would still graduate eventually. My dad would wonder where I was getting money from. It got to a point where I told him to relax, and I would take care of my expenses. Nilikuwa nahustle napata kitu.”
Driven by ambition, Pluto dived into a variety of ventures across towns like Juja and Witeithie. His entrepreneurial experiments included running a movie shop, a chips joint, and even trying the bike hire business. He also invested heavily in a large hotel in Witeithie, a venture that, unfortunately, failed.
The most significant financial blow came from Thee Pluto’s short-stay rental business in Mombasa. He launched three Airbnb apartments, each with rents around KSh 150,000 monthly. Despite the promising setup, the venture collapsed, resulting in a staggering loss of approximately KSh 6 million.
“I lost all of it. But I’m not complaining. Every time I fail, I learn how not to fail again. Quitters are not winners. I think the secret to success is refusing to give up,” Pluto reflected.
In addition to the Mombasa losses, Pluto admitted to losing around KSh 1.5 million in another Witeithie business and having to shut down boutiques on Moi Avenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
His openness sparked a wide range of reactions online. Supporters applauded his resilience and business savvy, while skeptics questioned how he initially raised capital and voiced doubts about some of his ventures.
When asked about his first capital, Pluto has remained somewhat private but emphasized hard work and persistence as the pillars of his success.
Beyond business, Pluto recently made headlines when he moved out of his spacious seven-bedroom mansion in Utawala, which he owned. After separating from his baby mama Felicity Shiru and their daughter, he chose to downsize and put the mansion up for rent, explaining he wanted a smaller, less lonely space.
Thee Pluto’s journey is a compelling story of grit, risk-taking, and the realities behind social media success. While losses and failures have marked his path, his refusal to give up continues to inspire many young entrepreneurs navigating Kenya’s challenging business landscape.
