She is the content queen who conquered the internet, but in 2026, Azziad Nasenya is playing by her own rules.
In this exclusive, the actor and media personality opens up about stepping into her latest role as Natasha in Maisha Magic Plus’s Lazizi, navigating the pressure of fame, protecting her mental space, and why growth is her goal:
Tell us about how you joined Lazizi and reuniting with Pascal, Reuben, Mwaniki Mageria and Helen Keli.
It has been such a beautiful experience working with familiar faces again. I had previously worked with Reuben on Selina, and stepping back on set with him instantly brought back that sense of comfort and chemistry. The entire crew is incredible, and there’s a warmth in how everyone works together that makes settling in effortless.
I also reconnected with Helen Keli, who I first met during Selina, and Mwaniki Mageria, who I hosted the Concert Nyumbani musical show with a few years ago. Seeing all of them again reminded me just how small and interconnected our industry is, and how special it is to grow alongside people who genuinely support your journey.
And Pascal — that’s my brother for life. I call him Toko. He’s an incredible human, and working with him again was nothing short of amazing. Being back together on set felt familiar, comforting, and deeply inspiring.
What did you prepare for the role of Natasha?
Before stepping on set, I immersed myself in the show, studied my character bio, and explored different ways of summoning Natasha. I watched multiple clips to understand her world and energy. When it comes to getting into character, I always go through my script the day before, studying the scenes and understanding the emotional flow. I have almost a photographic memory, but I still prefer being fully prepared rather than ambushed.
How do you stay focused as you navigate the creative industry? What have been the learnings?
Every job has pressure. The difference is how you perceive it. Pressure is what creates diamonds, after all. It’s not about avoiding pressure, but learning how to manage it, channel it, and grow through it. So far, I’m handling it well and I’m proud of that.
Protecting my mental and emotional space is non-negotiable. Therapy helps. Prayer grounds me. Blocking people protects me. If you stress me, I’ll block you. I filter comments, I switch off my phone, and I disconnect from the world when I need to reset. Sometimes I can go three days without my phone.
As your career has grown, how has the relationship with social media and your fans evolved?
Let’s say complicated. A love-hate affair. I am glad that social media has helped me build my brand, but I have learned to draw boundaries to protect my mental health.
How do you define success at this stage of your life, especially while you are still young?
Someone might think I’ve made it. Someone else might think I’ve barely started. But if I’m better today than I was yesterday that’s success. Growth is progressive, and I celebrate every step forward.
What’s on your 2026 bucket list?
I want to learn how to ride a horse. I want to learn a new language. I want to travel to Bangkok, Thailand.
Coffee or tea?
Tea any day. Coffee is overrated. I know you guys are going to come for me.
Glam or casual look?
Casual any day.
Beach or countryside?
Beach. Beach, beach, beach. The beach.
Do you prefer phone calls or voice notes?
Voice notes.
One word to describe your character Natasha?
Lover girl.
Favorite food after a long day of shoot?
Ugali, dry fried mbuzi, avocado, and terere.
