Kenya is undoubtedly one of the countries with the most talented and creative individuals in the art, technology, and other sectors.
One such individual is Collins Omondi, a Bachelor of Commerce graduate from the Jomo Kenyatta University of Science and Technology, who is arguably one of the best artists in the country.
Omondi graduated in 2013, but due to the scarcity of job opportunities, he decided to concentrate on drawing which was his long-time passion.
"I have been drawing since I was a kid, but I had never taken it seriously. So, when I failed to secure a job after graduation, I thought I could explore my talent,” he was quoted.
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File image of Collins Omondi showcasing his drawing of Steve Harvey. [Photo: Courtesy]
In 2014, Omondi went viral on social media after sharing a portrait of former President Uhuru Kenyatta in full military regalia.
Impressed by the portrait, the then president invited him to State House where he received the drawing. While at State House, he was issued the assignment of drawing former United States President Barrack Obama.
His drawing was handed over to President Obama when he visited the country in 2015.
In 2020, Omondi decided to draw renowned local and international celebrities and started with Steve Harvey. He first shared an incomplete portrait and urged Kenyans to tag the American TV star to get his attention.
"Pencil drawing in progress of @IAmSteveHarvey by me, with love from Kenya. Help me tag him so he can see it," he posted.
In response, Steve Harvey said: "Everyone has a God-given gift. This is what following your gift looks like, just incredible."
Omondi completed the drawing and again tagged the American TV star stating: "Complete! Pencil drawing of @IAmSteveHarvey. Will be a real boost to my hustle if you have this in your gallery. Waiting with bated breath."
Impressed by the drawing, Steve Harvey noted that he'd love to have the drawing and invited Omondi to meet him in either Johannesburg, South Africa or Botswana.
"Now I’m looking for you it would be my honor to have this .... what size is it and I’ll be in Joburgh and Botswana soon let’s hook up then," Harvey tweeted.
File image of Collins Omondi showcasing his drawing of Steve Harvey. [Photo: Courtesy]
Speaking at past interviews, Omondi acknowledged that he'd been in contact with Harvey's team, but noted that due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the meeting did not happen as scheduled.
In addition to Steve Harvey, he has drawn other global celebrities such as Tyler Perry and the late Chadwick Boseman among others.
Locally, he has drawn Eliud Kipchoge, Langa'ata MP Felix Odiwuor alias Jalang'o, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo among others.
