July of 2024, I visited Nairobi Kenya with Dr. Ruben West’s Live Your Best Life group as a speaker delegate.
This was my first trip to the Motherland.
The first week of my visit was a blur, and that’s when the fun began.
The Safari
The safari was a mixture of awe and wonder as we observed nature at its finest. The beautiful animals that roam the earth are quite the spectacle to behold when in their natural habitat.
Here are a few key lessons:
The Power of Community:
Many of the animals find safety in numbers. It helps prevent them from becoming easy prey.
Inclusivity:
I was amazed to see how often different species roamed together.
Mating:
It was wondrous to see mating rituals. We witnessed both the Ostrich mating dance and a lion and lioness getting busy.
There is much to be learned through our observation of these beautiful animals.
The Wakanda Gayla
What can I say.
This was a celebration like no other.
Complete with local dancers and a “Who Wore It Best” fashion show, we danced the night away!
Next: Awards Ceremonies and The Speaking Tour
During our trip, we were afforded opportunities to participate in several ICN award ceremonies where people were honored and recognized for their tireless work in the community. The ICN (I Change Nations) was founded by the honorable Dr. Clyde Rivers and it is indeed changing nations! It was inspiring to hear about the work taking place each day beyond the lights and the camera. These are committed leaders who are moved to action by their vision and mission.
The Live Your Best Life Conference was overflowing with energy and Dr. Ruben West and his incredible team created a magical space where there was something for everyone. Learning was front and center on the agenda.
The speakers did not disappoint. From Ghazi Muhammad’s message of letting go (I’ll never forget those chants of Ghazi, Ghazi, Ghazi), Dr. Carla Rotering’s inspiring message of reducing judgment and extending space and grace to ourselves and others by managing our inner chatter, Coffee Cup Chuck’s inspiring message of giving yourself another change, Dr. Michelle’s life lessons from the Mourner’s Bench, Brenda Ring Wood’s message of walking your talk had us all pondering what we sand vs what we do, Donald Tolson’s message of never give up taught us there is power in the pivot and sometimes adjustments are an unforeseen part of the plan, Regina’s Platt came strong with a message of leaning into who do you think you are, and Veney Cochran’s inspiring message of your best days are ahead of you, Raymond Baxter’s comprehensive message on reflective listening helped us understand the power of listening, and my message of what it takes to claim the mantra and commit to humanized leadership. There was literally something for everyone. Of course, Dr. West closed us out with an inspiring message for the ages that had each one of us grateful for the opportunities before us.
I was humbled and honored by the response to my talk. As I write this, we are planning a major expansion of LEADJITSU leadership principles throughout the Continent of Africa. I’m incredibly grateful to my new advocates, supporters, and partners in Kenya. Dr. Juma and Pastor Steve, thank you both for your vision, integrity, and service to your communities. Dr. West and Dr. Traci Ward, thank you for your guidance and mentorship!
I thought that was the capstone of my visit. I was wrong.
The Girls of Our Future – My Visit to Olympic High School
On my last Wednesday before departing, I had the honor and pleasure of visiting Olympic High School. The visit was facilitated by champion and advocate Ambassador Dominic Obadiya who made the connections and set the visit in motion.
With over 11,000 students, the school is a beacon of possibilities in their community.
So, what could I say to an eager and attentive group of young girls? Many of these children are from Kibera (we’ll get to that in a minute), where life is very challenging.
My message: You are the writer of your own story.
I spoke to these beautiful girls about the fact that in life, there will be many obstacles. It is not if they come; it is when. These obstacles exist but do not define us.
So, as young women, we don’t need to wait to be given the title of leader.
Leadership is something each and every one of us can claim.
It shows up in how we move, interact, communicate, use our voices, and more. Leadership begins with oneself and then extends to everyone within one’s circle of influence.
With each choice, we are adding to our story. Choose a path, get clear on what you want and why, and tap into the internal belief that you can be and achieve greatness in life.
Kibera Slums - A Hard Life
Following my visit to Olympic, I was given the opportunity to tour Kibera.
Kibera is one of the largest slums in Nairobi with an estimated population of more than 2 million. It is also estimated that the vast majority of residents are eighteen years or younger.
On average, Kibera residents earn about $2 per day.
In Kibera, everyone is trying to make it.
Many of the “living areas” are simply sheets of metal held together.
The residents of Kibera have to buy access to use the washrooms and showers as this is not a standard part of the living quarters. They also buy water.
As I walked around, I could only think, “Oh my God. What a difficult way to live.”
There was waste piled high, with chickens and dogs sharing space with people comfortably.
Overlooking the old railroad tracks, Kibera living quarters stretched as far as they eye could see.
I was escorted by some incredible Kibera community champions who work tirelessly to raise awareness, support people in the community, connect with those willing to donate food and water.
If you are willing to contribute even the smallest amount, reach out. I can connect you with these incredible champions.
Sam is Founder/CEO of Nyandika slum’s humanitarian support initiatives based in Kibera slums Nairobi Kenya. He currently serves as organization CEO. About Kibera he says we enrich lives and restore hope for poor families, orphans and single mothers living in Kibera slums. They also have a feeding program and mentorship program for children, youths and single mothers.
Joshua Oseko also joined us. As the founder and humanitarian behind the Down to Talent Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives in the Kibera Slums, he plays a pivotal role in advancing the community through comprehensive mentorship programs, talent development initiatives, women’s empowerment projects, discipleship efforts, and a vital feeding program. Reflecting on the unique challenges and triumphs of Kibera, he eloquently states:
“In Kibera, every smile that emerges amidst profound adversity is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The community’s extraordinary ability to maintain hope and strength in the face of significant hardship underscores a profound truth: even in the most challenging environments, dignity and joy can not only survive but flourish. The enduring spirit of Kibera exemplifies how individuals can achieve remarkable resilience and positivity despite daunting circumstances, offering a beacon of hope and inspiration for others. Our feeding program is just one of the many ways we strive to provide immediate relief and support, reinforcing the community’s strength and ability to thrive against all odds.”
Edinah Kangwana is a leadership consultant in Kenya. She also shared inspiring words with the girls at Olympic High School. It was a privilege to tour Kibera with her.
Kibera – To Smile or Not to Smile
In many of these photos taken in Kibera, you will see a smile on my face.
However, this does not reflect the heaviness of my heart during the tour.
In fact, I really did NOT want to smile.
Perspective is a beautiful thing. The team with me said please smile. They told me, “It’s okay. Do you see the people here and the children? They are smiling and still enjoying life. They are grateful for what they have.”
I am a fierce advocate that we do not need permission to show up authentically in our lives. Yet, this is one time that I craved permission to avoid any missteps or appearances of exploitation. I was so very sensitive to protecting the dignity and humanity of this
Memories of a Lifetime
This is one trip I’ll never forget.
I am forever changed. I am humbled. I am grateful.
One person cannot do everything. But everyone can do something.
I am looking forward to helping the people of Kenya and the African Continent to embrace humanized leadership.
To my new friends, partners, and community advocates, until we meet again!
Rhonda
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