Here is something remarkable about Rasna Warah – her groundbreaking role in helping East Africans understand their multicultural identity. Back in 1998, when many were still hesitant to discuss cultural complexity, she wrote “Triple Heritage: A Journey of Self-Discovery.” Where she explores the role of the Indian community during the British rule in East Africa.

Think about the courage it took to openly explore what it meant to be simultaneously Kenyan, Indian, and a global citizen at that time. Through her personal story, she gave voice to thousands of East African Asians who had similar experiences but perhaps lacked the words to express them.

Her journey from writing this deeply personal exploration to becoming a fearless critic of international institutions like the UN shows a fascinating evolution. She started by looking inward at her own identity and gradually expanded her lens to examine global power structures, as seen in her final book “Lords of Impunity.”

What’s particularly interesting is how she managed to weave together her multiple perspectives; she could write about local Kenyan issues for the Daily Nation with the same authenticity as when she critiqued international development for The Guardian. She showed that having multiple identities wasn’t a disadvantage, it was a superpower that gave her unique insights into both local and global issues.

Isn’t it incredible how someone who began by questioning where she fit in went on to help reshape the conversation about identity in East Africa?

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Josephine Mwende: A Beacon for Mothers with Disabilities

Josephine Mwende, the founder of AbleRise Africa Society, has made it her mission to advocate for the rights of people with disabilities. Her journey is both personal and poignant. As a woman with cerebral palsy, Josephine faced numerous challenges during her pregnancy and delivery. “It is every woman’s great desire to have a child and enjoy the exciting journey of motherhood. Despite having cerebral palsy, I was over the moon when I learned that I was expecting a baby,” she recalls. However, her joy was overshadowed by rejection and discrimination from multiple hospitals, with one doctor callously stating, “We don’t handle such people.”

Her ordeal took a positive turn when Kenyatta National Hospital finally accepted her, allowing her to deliver her baby safely. “Every time I look at my son, Gift, I tell myself that no woman should go through the pain, rejection, and humiliation that I went through,” Josephine says. This experience fueled her determination to ensure equal health rights for expectant mothers with cerebral palsy.

Josephine’s petition calls for the establishment of a toll-free hotline for reporting discrimination in public hospitals, special consultation rooms for women with cerebral palsy, and awareness programs for hospital staff. Her advocacy is backed by findings from the Nguvu Collective OBV Survey, which highlights the urgent need for policies protecting the rights of women with disabilities during childbirth.

Amina Guyo: Transforming Menstrual Hygiene in ASAL Areas

Amina Guyo Abdi, a nurse, leads the Sitiri Campaign, which trains women and girls in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) to create their own businesses and safe spaces. Amina’s inspiration stems from her personal experience with menstrual hygiene challenges. “I still vividly remember the day I started my first period. I was alone, scared, and had no idea what was happening to my body,” she shares.

In ASAL areas, access to menstrual products, clean water, and waste management is extremely limited. Disposable pads, while intermittently provided, are impractical and environmentally harmful. Amina advocates for the distribution of reusable sanitary pads, which offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution. “Reusable sanitary pads provide a sustainable, cost-effective solution that aligns with the unique challenges of ASAL communities,” she explains.

The Sitiri Campaign not only distributes these pads but also offers training for women and girls to create their own businesses and safe spaces. By addressing cultural and social stigmas surrounding menstruation, Amina’s initiative has garnered positive responses from the community. One success story highlights a young girl who, after receiving reusable pads and training, started her own small business, significantly improving her family’s financial situation.

Driving Change and Seeking Support

Both Josephine and Amina’s initiatives underscore the need for systemic change and community support. Josephine hopes to see a healthcare system that respects and supports women with disabilities, while Amina envisions a future where menstrual hygiene is no longer a barrier for girls in ASAL areas. Their calls to action are clear: support their petitions, raise awareness, and join them in their fight for equal rights and opportunities.

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Dr. Anuradha Khoda’s career spans over three decades. Her passion has always been to unlock the best in individuals. Initially, she served as the Director of IT and E-learning at high schools. This role gave her insight into the gap between professional development and personal growth. Realizing the need for balance, she embarked on a journey to focus on personal development, self-care, and discovering one’s true calling.

Bridging Self-Help and Technology

In her book, The Power of Purpose: A Guide to Finding Your Life’s Mission, Dr. Khoda emphasizes the intersection of self-help wisdom and technological advancements. She believes that understanding one’s purpose is the foundation of personal growth. Her subsequent book, The Thought Leader’s Code: A Five-Step Blueprint, offers a roadmap to becoming an expert in a chosen niche, highlighting the role of technology in establishing authority in today’s crowded marketplace.

A Transformative Experience

Dr. Khoda’s upbringing in a disciplinarian family, with parents who taught in India, Kenya, and Hong Kong, instilled strong values in her. Despite excelling academically, she found that being meek and quiet hindered her career growth. This led her to develop social skills. As a teacher, she noticed that students labeled as slow learners had unique talents that were often overlooked. This realization was a turning point, inspiring her mission to harness individual potential.

Effective Tools for Self-Empowerment

In the digital age, technology plays a dual role. It allows introverts to shine through remote work but can also lead to social isolation and mental health issues. Dr. Khoda views technology as a tool that, when used wisely, can enhance self-empowerment. However, misuse can be detrimental.

Overcoming Professional Barriers

Dr. Khoda identifies common barriers to professional growth, especially for women who often prioritize family over personal growth. She helps women rediscover their purpose once their children are grown. For men, the barrier often lies in career misalignment with passion and core values. Dr. Khoda emphasizes that professional growth is secondary to inner fulfillment and self-care.

Balancing Entrepreneurship and Personal Development

Dr. Khoda advises aspiring entrepreneurs to first become complete individuals. Clear life purposes, aligned with core values, are crucial for success. She believes that personal development should precede entrepreneurial endeavors.

Staying Resilient Amidst Challenges

Faith in a higher power, resilience, and patience are key principles for Dr. Khoda. She has faced numerous challenges but believes that a higher plan guides her life. Practicing this principle daily helps her remain steadfast.

The Importance of Continuous Learning

Dr. Khoda stresses the importance of continuous learning. She utilizes the internet, social media, and AI to stay updated. Her zest for learning, whether as a teacher or student, fuels her growth. She encourages everyone to adopt this lifelong learning mantra.

An Actionable Step from ‘The Power of Purpose’

Dr. Khoda recommends silencing the mind as a first step towards discovering one’s purpose. Sitting in silence enables self-reflection, helping individuals gain clarity on their goals and recognize self-created obstacles. This practice improves focus and sets the stage for success.

A Guiding Quote

Dr. Khoda lives by the quote, “I am the creation of the higher being. So, why am I working hard to create a new life which may not be in the grand plan? Accept your today, live in the moment and take the step forward with all determination because you have a strong hand supporting you.”

This philosophy underscores her belief in the importance of living in the moment and trusting in a higher power’s plan.

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The Founder of Woman Kenya Network replaces Sharon Kechula who served as the acting executive director for four months. 

A statement shared by AMWIK board that was signed by the chairperson Jane Thuo says that Queenter’s  appointment follows a rigorous and competitive hiring process. 

The board said,”She has demonstrably championed gender equality throughout her career, establishing a Gender Desk, revamping anti-sexual harassment policies, and launching innovative mentorship programs,”

Ms Mbori’s passion and commitment in championing gender equality, inclusitivity  and amplifying the voices of marginalized groups align with AMWIK’s mission and will ensure its continuity to its members and stakeholders. 

Speaking during an interview with Woman Kenya Network, Ms Mbori relayed optimism in her new role. Being keen on making impact, Queenter asserted that the platform will allow her to serve women in media across the forty seven counties.

She shared, 

” This is a platform I wanted to tap into because I’m really keen on making an  impact. AMWIK offers a great space to engage women in the media because it draws from the entire nation the 47 counties in Kenya. We have members across the board representing different media organizations and related fields such as communication and Public Relations ( PR). 

“AMWIK has the potential to create opportunities for women in the media in the Public Relations space and the potential to pull resources from these women which can be used to advance  democracy and enhance media freedom in the country.” 

The celebrated advocate for gender equality has demonstrated her passion and commitment in many capacities.She has over twelve years in media management across Africa. The Moi University alumnus has held editorial positions at Mwananchi Communications LTD, Bang! Magazine and Standard Media Group PLC. 

As a certified media trainer , the award winning multi media journalist is an expert in understanding the challenges and opportunities that face women in the media industry.

 Her background in gender inclusive story telling, thought leadership and sustainable journalism make her well-equipped to navigate the ever changing media landscape. 

Queenter’s commitment goes beyond the newsroom. She also offers her expertise to multiple organizations. She is a founding member of the Standard Group Women Network (SGWN).

Queenter is the current Board Chair of SGWN and sits on other boards including African Women in Media and Kigali Declaration Advisory Committee. 

Woman Kenya Network As A Trusted Voice For Kenyan Women 

Woman Kenya Network (WOKN) is a distinguished media company that’s committed to advancing gender equality and promoting the equitable participation of women and girls in society.

 Launched in 2018, WOKN has grown in leaps and bounds to become an award-winning platform and the trusted voice for women and girls. 

WOKN is a fully-fledged digital media platform with a vibrant social media presence on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

WOKN has become a trusted and reliable source of information on gender-sensitive content covering diverse thematic areas including Politics, Climate, Peace and Security, Gender Justice, Health, Economic Empowerment, and SRHR as guided by SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.  

The media company is the main sponsor of the Top 20 Most Influential Women in Kenya Awards. They also hold regular themed events and social networks like the Women in Leadership and provide a platform for women to build networks and advance gender equality and inclusion.

The Association of Media Women In Kenya 

AMWIK was founded in 1982 by a group of women journalist at a time when women voices and issues were given very little attention in the media. 

AMWIK’s objective is to promote an informed and resourceful society through professional development and transformation of the media to enhance the status of women in Kenya.

The organization pulls over 300 women in the media across different parts of Kenya , community networks and media associations across 47 Kenyan counties, pulling their professional skills and giving visibility to the concerns of women. 

AMWIK’s vision is to see a society in which the media embraces and promotes equitable development, human rights and women rights. 

AMWIK’s mission is to use the media to promote an informed and gender responsive society in Kenya and Africa.

The post CEO Woman Kenya Network , Queenter Mbori Determined to Elevate Women Across Kenya as AMWIK’s New Executive Director appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Ndambuki’s dedication to changing the outlook on copyright has significantly impacted the industry. She notes, “Having the mindset that this is a trade issue has changed the outlook on copyright. For example, in Kenya, the president prioritizes the creative economy. I believe the growth is just beginning.” This shift in perspective is essential in elevating the creative economy and recognizing the music industry’s potential as a significant economic driver.

Her influence extends across key markets such as South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ghana, and Botswana amongst other Sub-Saharan African countries. Ndambuki expresses pride in the global recognition of African music, with artists like Rema, who earlier in the week made history by coming in a strong 2nd position in the IFPI Global Single Chart. Others like Burna Boy, Diamond, and Wizkid are also dominating the international scene. She emphasizes the historical significance of African music and expresses joy that it is finally translating into substantial revenues for performers, composers, and music owners.

The Billboard Women in Music event also recognized other industry leaders, including IFPI President Frances Moore, IFPI Director of Global Litigation Elena Blobel, Director of Global Content Protection and Enforcement Melissa Morgia, and the Directors of European Legal Affairs, Latin, and Caribbean.

Apart from these distinguished executive figures, the event features a star-studded lineup of awardees, including Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Miley Cyrus, Ariana Grande, Rihanna, and Beyonce, among others. Categories range from the Big Chart Achievement Award to the Favorite Beauty or Style Award, with special recognitions like the Women in Music Rising Star Honorees and the Women in Music Icon Award.

The awards ceremony promises electrifying performances by internationally acclaimed artists such as Karol G, Charlie XCX, Kylie Minogue, Pink Pantheress, Victoria Monet, and Young Miko. The event marks a celebration of the profound impact these women have had on the music industry.

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“They are not only liberal but are also about creating experiences, and leading them requires one to keep up with their energies,” Babara says. 

 Secondly, growing up, the Lwak Girls Alumni wanted to be a pathologist. But that dream never saw the light of day, and the trained journalist veered off to become one of the youngest CEOs to watch in the marketing field in East Africa.

Despite being in the market for less than ten years, Spark Communications, an innovative marketing firm aimed at top-quality and fine marketing solutions, has brushed shoulders with some top brands in the industry namely, Airtel, SBM Bank, LG Electronics, Bosch, and MultiChoice Group. What’s more, Babara is proud to be associated with Championing the growth and visibility of the Samsung brand across East Africa when she was General Manager at Interactive Communications Ltd.

 “I was hired as the GM for Kenya but was able to open up the market in Uganda and Rwanda,” she said in a past interview with Everyday Woman, adding that, additionally, she grew the workforce from three employees in Kenya to 300 in East Africa. 

 A few years later, Babara joined the thin list of women in C-Suites in Kenya, starting her own company and navigating through the COVID-19 Pandemic. A survey by IBM (NYSE: IBM) Institute for Business Value (IBV) and Chief Study indicates that in Kenya, the number of women at the C-suite level is at 11 percent and board level at 10 percent. These numbers got Babara worried, particularly judging from the calibre of young women who show up for interviews at Spark Communications. 

 “I noticed there was a lapse. Many fresh graduates were struggling to fit into the job market. Some even had Master’s Degrees but could not express themselves,” she says, adding that this reality birthed an idea: Spark Empower, a mentorship program that elevates young people, transforms their lives, and creates an enabling environment for them to thrive. The mentorship program provides an avenue for personal growth and career development. The end goal is to create “A Community of Influence.”

Community of Influence

One of the core objectives of Spark Empower is to foster a community of influence. The program aims to empower young mentees not only to succeed but also to positively impact their communities. The mentorship program goes beyond traditional mentorship by incorporating the concept of shadow mentorship. 

 This approach allows mentees to spend a week closely observing and learning from professionals in their desired fields. It provides invaluable insights into the day-to-day realities of a career, helping mentees make informed decisions about their future paths.

 In terms of recruitment, the selection process involves a rigorous review of applications, bearing in mind the genuine need and commitment to the course. While the program currently accommodates a limited number of mentees per cohort due to financial constraints, it aspires to expand to the 47 counties in Kenya and eventually, outside the country. This can only be made possible with the support of like-minded partners. 

 Since its inception in 2016, Spark Empower has impacted hundreds of university graduates, who have now joined the job market. About 80 percent of the 2022 Cohort has been absorbed into the job market, a feat which Patron Babara does not take lightly. Initially, the program targeted female mentees but in 2023, Spark Empower opened its doors to the boy child. And from absorbing 10 mentees, annually, the numbers have grown to 20 mentees, with the quality of mentors and speakers getting richer by the day. 

 In the recent past, the program has hosted industry leaders including Mary Thuo, CEO of CityScape Trends Ltd, Makena Kiara, Head of Marketing Kenchic, Natalie Ngatia, MD Saharan Africa, Founder of PassionProfit, Frida Owinga, among others. 

 “One day Steve Harvey will be our guest on Spark Empower,” Babara says, for his humor and the valuable life lessons he imparts. 

 Locally, she envisions hosting surprise guest artists, such as Sauti Sol and Content Creator Moya David to entertain and inspire the youthful graduates. Furthermore, she expresses fascination with the K-pop group Black Pink, highlighting their understanding of the music business and their potential to motivate and entertain the youth.

 Apart from formal mentorship sessions, Spark Empower organizes informal gatherings, team-building exercises, and one-on-one interactions between mentees and mentors. These activities help foster a sense of community among participants, creating a supportive environment where mentees can share, learn, and grow together.

Mentees are provided with opportunities to engage with sustainable development goals (SDGs) and collaborate with organizations such as the UN Global Compact. 

Contrary to popular belief, Babara believes that young people are open to mentorship. 

“They yearn for guidance and support to navigate the complex transition from academia to the professional world yet, society often fails to recognize and celebrate their achievements,” she says. As an employer of Gen-Zs, she advocates for mutual understanding.

 Challenges facing the youth

Barbara acknowledges the fact that the youth face significant challenges. Unemployment remains a pressing issue, leading to despair and, in some tragic cases, even suicide. The burden of academic fees and limited opportunities add to their struggles.

 Moreover, mental health issues, particularly depression, are becoming increasingly common among young people. Societal and parental pressures, as well as the constant barrage of social media and peer pressure, contribute to their emotional distress. Additionally, drug addiction is a harsh reality that many youths grapple with. To address these challenges, Barbara emphasizes the need for a multi-faceted approach. She believes that mentorship, while vital, is just one piece of the puzzle. 

“Young people must be encouraged to focus on their goals and potential,” she argues, and to succeed, “The youth must identify their aspirations, begin the journey to self-discovery, be disciplined, and work hard.” 

Beneficiary of mentorship

Barbara, a beneficiary of mentorship, recalls learning hard work and entrepreneurship from her late mother who was a banker and a farmer. Born and raised in Kisumu, the ‘farm girl’ never went on holiday as they would toil and moil on the farm during holidays. Her business acumen, she says is inspired by her mother. 

 Other people who have walked the journey with Babara include Dr Patricia Murugami Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Breakthrough Leadership Transformation, Phil Knight, Founder and former CEO of shoe giant, Nike through his book: Shoe Dog, Founder of PassionProfit, and Frida Owinga, among others.

 Besides the actual mentorship, she has equipped herself with some skills that are necessary for women in C-Suites. These include people management skills, how to lead with impact, how to lead when serving, and how to leave a legacy. Other skills include being an intentional leader who focuses on people as well as profits.

 To excel as a woman CEO, Babara took up classes in Breakthrough Mastery Circle: To work on her skills as a woman. She also enrolled in the Women in Leadership Course from the Strathmore Business School. 

 “Mentors have opened doors, created opportunities, given free advice, and corrected as well as reprimanded me,” she says. “When you walk with people, you go far. I walk with people who have gone ahead of me.” 

 She has benefited from numerous mentors, each contributing to her personal and professional growth. Her mentors have provided her with direction, clarity, and valuable insights, underscoring the importance of mentorship in one’s journey to success. As Spark Empower continues to grow and expand, Babara’s vision will embody the spirit of collective effort and mentorship, ultimately shaping the future of Kenya’s youth.

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She came into the limelight in August 2020 after her appointment as a board member of the Tourism Regulatory Board was revoked, for questioning the significance of Nairobi National Park in a past Facebook post.

Never afraid of playing with fire, Pauline has never relented in expressing strong views against the Kenya Kwanza Government led by President William Ruto. The blogger was arrested on July 22, in Watamu, Kilifi County, alongside two others, for reportedly ‘having narcotics drugs’ during a search of their car and hotel rooms. On July 24, they were released on free bond.

Unknown to many, her rise to the top has not been a walk in the park. Pauline completed her O-levels at Moi Girls Kamangu, Kenya. However, her dreams of attending college were hampered by financial constraints. 

Undeterred, she sought education sponsorships, even attempting to meet former President Daniel Arap Moi for support, but her efforts did not yield the desired results. Nevertheless, her determination remained unshaken, and fate smiled upon her when a generous friend provided her with Ksh100,000, enabling her to pursue higher education.

Despite facing financial hardships, Pauline persevered, enrolling in various esteemed institutions, including Catholic University and Mt. Kenya University. She pursued a Master’s Degree in International Studies from the University of Nairobi’s Institute of Diplomacy and International Studies.

In 2017, she was honoured with the Head of State Commendation for her exceptional service to the country. Pauline is the Founder of the Eagles Leadership Foundation, which nurtures young leaders and creates opportunities for them to contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities and the continent at large.

Her expertise in communication led her to serve as a Communications Specialist for NEPAD/APRM Kenya Secretariat, a semi-autonomous state agency, where she participated in high-level meetings, including African Union Summits and the United Nations General Assembly.

Pauline enjoys a vibrant social media following of over 130,000 on Facebook and more than 40,000 followers on Twitter. Her digital reach has amplified her advocacy efforts, inspiring countless individuals in Kenya and beyond.

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Mary Wanyonyi is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA-K) and an active member of both the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) and the Institute of Certified Investment and Financial Analysts (ICIFA).

She has held board positions in prestigious institutions such as the Cooperative University College, Kenyatta National Hospital, and Maasai Mara University.

Mary Wanyonyi Chebukati is a certified mediator, showcasing her expertise in conflict resolution.

She is married to Wafula Chebukati, the outgoing Chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), since 1990. Together, they have been blessed with three children – two boys and one girl.

Currently, she is the Senior Deputy Accountant General and serves as the Head of the Accounting Unit in the Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing & Urban Development.

Throughout her career, Mary Wanyonyi Chebukati has demonstrated exceptional skills and knowledge in accounting, finance, and governance, earning her immense respect and recognition in Kenya.

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