What does it take to transform a continent? In this episode, discover the extraordinary journey of a woman who’s not just talking about Africa’s potential—she’s building its future, one leader at a time.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that goes beyond headlines and stereotypes, delving into the heart of African leadership, resilience, and the power of collective action. You’ll learn how true change is sparked from within, why nurturing the next generation of leaders is essential, and what it means to lead with both strength and compassion. Whether you’re an aspiring changemaker, a seasoned leader, or simply passionate about Africa’s story, this episode will leave you motivated to believe in yourself and the power of community.

Our guest, Kah Walla, is a trailblazing African leader whose impact spans politics, entrepreneurship, and activism. As the first woman to run for President in Cameroon, president of a major political party, and founder of a globally recognized consulting firm, Kah’s life is a testament to courage, vision, and unwavering commitment to justice. Her advocacy for human rights, women’s empowerment, and youth leadership has made her a respected voice not only in Cameroon but across the continent and beyond. Kah’s story is one of breaking barriers, building bridges, and inspiring others to step into their own power.

In this episode, Kah Walla opens up about her roots as an “active African citizen” and the profound influence of her grandmothers—two remarkable women who defied the odds in mid-20th-century Cameroon. She shares how their strength, independence, and nurturing leadership shaped her own philosophy: that true leadership is about building others up, not just standing at the front. Kah recounts her journey from being the eldest child in a supportive, open-minded family to leading a thriving consulting business and a political movement for justice and equality.

Listeners will hear candid stories of triumph and challenge, including the pivotal moment when Kah refused to pay a bribe to save her young company, drawing on the wisdom and clarity her mother instilled in her. She discusses the importance of collective action in Africa—why joining movements, not just talking or tweeting, is crucial for real change. Kah’s insights into the history of African women’s leadership, the need to move from potential to results, and the call for every African to “get their hands dirty” in building a better society are both eye-opening and deeply motivating.

Throughout the conversation, Kah emphasizes the value of self-belief, continuous learning, and focusing on what truly matters: building yourself, your skills, and your vision from the inside out. She challenges listeners to avoid distractions, invest in their own growth, and measure their legacy by the leaders they help create. Her message is clear: Africa’s future depends on ordinary people stepping up, working together, and believing in their collective strength.

Ready to be inspired and empowered? Listen now to hear Kah Walla’s powerful story and practical wisdom on leadership, legacy, and the future of Africa. If this episode moves you, don’t forget to subscribe, share with fellow changemakers, and join the conversation—because together, we can turn potential into real, lasting results.

What does it take to revolutionize healthcare in Africa—and what can we learn from a leader who’s doing it on the front lines?

In this compelling episode of Once Upon a Leader in Africa, host George Nuthu sits down with Dr. Nick Okumu for an in-depth conversation about leadership, innovation, and impact in the health sector. Dr. Okumu traces his journey from his first leadership role as a class prefect in primary school—where he practiced servant leadership before he even knew the term—to his current positions as head of the orthopedic oncology unit at Kenyatta National Hospital and managing partner at Jasmine Dental and Medical Center. Listeners will hear how Dr. Okumu’s leadership style has evolved to become adaptive, shaped by experiences ranging from university student government to founding multiple businesses and spearheading subspecialty units in orthopedics. He candidly discusses the challenges of leading in Africa’s public health sector, including bureaucratic inertia, underfunding, resistance to innovation, and the personal toll of professional setbacks. The episode also explores Dr. Okumu’s advocacy for surgical access, highlighting the staggering statistic that 30% of the global disease burden requires surgery. Yet, millions of procedures go unmet each year—leading to preventable deaths and economic hardship. Dr. Okumu shares how he’s leveraging technology, such as AI-driven prosthetic design and cancer screening tools, to bridge gaps in care and make healthcare more accessible and efficient.

Dr. Nick Okumu is a distinguished orthopedic surgeon and healthcare leader in Kenya. As head of the orthopedic oncology unit at Kenyatta National Hospital, he leads a team dedicated to treating bone cancer and improving patient outcomes. He is also the managing partner of Jasmine Dental and Medical Center, a growing outpatient facility he co-founded with his wife, and a global surgery advocacy fellow with Operation Smile and the University of Global Health Equity. Dr. Okumu’s work spans clinical care, entrepreneurship, technology innovation, and policy advocacy, making him a transformative figure in African healthcare.

By tuning in, listeners will gain rare insights into the realities of healthcare leadership in Africa—from the importance of integrity, honesty, and adaptability, to the need for strategic thinking and system-building. Dr. Okumu’s story offers practical lessons on overcoming adversity, embracing technology as a tool for progress, and the power of leading by example. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, aspiring leader, or changemaker, this episode will inspire you to pursue purpose-driven leadership and believe that change is possible—even in the most challenging environments.

If you found value in Dr. Okumu’s journey and insights, don’t forget to subscribe to Once Upon a Leader in Africa, leave us a review, and share this episode with your network.

What does it take to revive a failing company in just three months? For Elizabeth Irungu, it’s not just about strategy—it’s about purpose, resilience, and leading with conviction.

In this compelling episode of Once Upon A Leader in Africa, we follow the remarkable journey of Elizabeth Irungu, CEO of Absa Asset Management Limited, whose leadership story redefines transformation—not just of businesses, but of lives. You’ll be inspired by how she merges economic acumen with unshakable values to lead boldly, empower teams, and drive lasting impact.

This episode offers more than leadership insights—it’s a fresh perspective on service, purpose, and legacy. From mentoring young professionals to navigating sovereign risks, from turning losses into profits to reshaping wealth management in Kenya, Elizabeth presents a masterclass in values-driven leadership—rich with strategic brilliance, personal resilience, and spiritual depth.

Meet Elizabeth—a transformative leader at the helm of one of Kenya’s dynamic asset management firms. With past roles at STANLIB, Britam, and ICEA Lion, she brings a wealth of experience in business development, portfolio management, and organizational change. But what sets her apart is her unwavering belief that leadership must serve a higher purpose.

Her leadership journey began in high school as a school captain and evolved through unique early experiences—from co-running a mobile phone distribution business to serving as a junior economist in the Office of the President. These moments taught her that leadership is about presence, adaptability, and faith—not titles.

When Elizabeth joined Absa Asset Management, the firm was facing imminent closure. In just three months, she led a turnaround that restored profitability—not by chance, but through strategic clarity, optimism, and a shared sense of mission. She rallied a young, dynamic team around a purpose greater than profit.

Elizabeth’s leadership philosophy is relational, not hierarchical. Leading a team with an average age of 25, she cultivates a culture of deep listening, mentorship, and shared ownership. People don’t just work under her—they grow with her.

Her passion for investment is deeply transformational. For Elizabeth, wealth management isn’t just about returns—it’s about empowering people to make informed financial decisions for generations to come. Financial education is central to her leadership—not an afterthought, but a calling.

You’ll also gain rare insight into her spiritual grounding. Guided by biblical principles and inspired by figures like Nelson Mandela, Elizabeth embodies integrity, humility, and servant leadership. Her board service, volunteerism, and mentoring reveal a leader who sees every platform—big or small—as an opportunity to uplift others.

The road hasn’t been easy. She shares candid lessons from leading through sovereign risk, restoring trust after reputational damage, and managing large-scale project hurdles. Yet through it all, she remains anchored in faith and solutions-focused leadership.

This is more than a conversation—it’s a vision for leadership in Africa. Whether you’re an aspiring leader, a seasoned executive, or someone seeking purpose, Elizabeth’s story is a powerful reminder:

• Believe in your potential,
• Lead with integrity,
• Embrace challenges as growth opportunities,
• And above all, use leadership to serve others.

Elizabeth’s legacy isn’t built on accolades—it’s built on impact. Mentoring the next generation, transforming broken systems, and championing financial literacy, she models what it means to lead from the inside out.

Step into a transformative journey of leadership, humanity, and purpose with Dr. Dumisani Magadlela, a globally respected leadership coach, international consultant, and passionate advocate of the Ubuntu philosophy—“I am because we are.”

In this powerful episode, Dumi opens up about his deeply personal leadership journey rooted in compassion, emotional intelligence, and interconnectedness. Growing up as the eldest in a large South African family, Dumi absorbed the values of service and community from his parents—especially his mother, whose open-door generosity embodied the essence of Ubuntu. These early experiences laid the foundation for a leadership style that champions connection over hierarchy and heart over ego.

Listeners will gain compelling insights into:

• How Ubuntu shapes inclusive, purpose-driven leadership.

• The importance of seeing each individual as a unique contributor to the collective.

• Emotional intelligence and systemic thinking as pillars of 21st-century leadership.

• The power of authentic human connection in driving organizational transformation.

Drawing on his work with international bodies like the United Nations and extensive travels across Africa, Dumi reflects on lessons learned across diverse cultures and leadership settings. He challenges artificial boundaries and highlights the immense potential of Africa’s youth to reshape global leadership through unity, innovation, and collaboration.

Dumi doesn’t shy away from real challenges. He speaks candidly about leading with integrity, managing team dynamics, and staying grounded amid complexity. His vivid storytelling, including an uplifting encounter with young African innovators, reveals his unwavering belief in the brilliance of the next generation.

Through a vibrant metaphor, Dumi likens himself to a “versatile chef,” blending diverse leadership ingredients to create nourishing, people-centered experiences. His call to action is deeply resonant: “Who are you? Who are you becoming?” In a rapidly changing world, Dumi reminds us that our greatest leadership asset is—and will always be—our shared humanity.

Whether you're a leader, coach, entrepreneur, or changemaker, this episode will leave you inspired and empowered to lead with purpose, compassion, and connection. Dr. Dumi’s story is more than a leadership lesson—it’s an invitation to be part of a global movement toward more humane, collaborative, and conscious leadership.

🎧 Tune in and discover how embracing Ubuntu can transform not only how we lead—but how we live.

In this inspiring episode, we spotlight the leadership journey of Jennifer Kinyoe, Managing Director of Loxea, the leasing arm of CFAO Group. With operations in 25 African countries, Loxea offers sustainable fleet management solutions, including introducing electric vehicles (EVs) to East Africa under Jennifer’s visionary leadership.

Jennifer’s journey to the top is deeply grounded in values and service. As the eldest of six children, she developed responsibility early. From school prefect roles to university leadership, her foundation was built on integrity, service, and excellence. Academically accomplished, she holds a CPA, a degree in Economics, and a master’s in Strategic Management.

Her corporate path began at Deloitte and Ernst & Young (London), but a return to Kenya to raise her twins marked a turning point. What started as an interview for a general manager position unexpectedly led to her becoming CEO at just 33. Initially hesitant, she stepped up, launching a trailblazing career across finance, healthcare, and now, automotive mobility.

Jennifer is known for her coaching style of leadership. She encourages teams to find their own solutions: “If you come with a problem, return with a proposed solution.” Her approach fosters ownership, trust, and high performance. Today, she uses her certified coaching skills to support mid-career leaders facing transition and identity challenges.

Throughout her career, Jennifer has remained grounded in core values—integrity, compassion, and resilience. Whether navigating regulatory uncertainty, innovation risks, or sustainability challenges, she leads with clarity and conviction. Her success in launching EVs in a market still developing environmental consciousness is a testament to her agility and vision.

She also acknowledges the challenges leaders face in Africa: capital access, talent retention, and regulatory dynamics. Her advice to emerging leaders is practical and profound:

- Trust yourself even when unsure

- Lead with a clear vision

- Empower your people

- Stay grounded in values

- Be adaptable

- Never stop learning

Jennifer’s leadership legacy is not about titles or accolades, but empowering others to rise. She hopes to be remembered as a compassionate, purpose-driven leader who built businesses that thrived economically and ethically.

Tune in to this episode for a rich conversation on visionary leadership, coaching in action, and the power of staying grounded amidst complexity.

What drives a leader to keep showing up, even when the cost is high and recognition is rare? In this powerful and deeply reflective episode, we explore the remarkable leadership journey of Jeremiah Nyagah, a seasoned humanitarian leader who views leadership not merely as a role but as a divine calling rooted in service, sacrifice, and legacy.

Jeremiah's story begins in the classrooms of Kenya, where he served as a class prefect from the first grade to standard eight, later becoming deputy head boy and school captain in high school. His leadership instincts were evident early, but the unwavering bchers and mentorsh toward servant leadership. With a degree in education and training as a Kiswahili teacher, Jeremiah’s trajectory took a transformative turn when he entered the humanitarian sector, ultimately leading to over two decades of service with international NGOs, including Pathfinder International, Child Fund, and currently World Vision, where he serves as Country Director for Uganda.

In this episode, Jeremiah opens up about the values and convictions that continue to guide his leadership today. Drawing from years of real-world experience, he identifies ten essential qualities for effective leadership in humanitarian work, from empathy and humility to stewardship, adaptability, and a legacy-minded approach. His commitment to leading with integrity—especially in difficult or unpopular circumstances—offers listeners a model of courage and ethical consistency that is rare and refreshing.

But leadership has not been without cost. Jeremiah speaks vulnerably about the emotional toll of leading during crises, such as addressing internal corruption, terminating close colleagues, navigating funding cuts, and facing criticism on social media. He also shares the personal challenges of balancing leadership responsibilities with family life, including long periods away from home and the effort required to remain emotionally present with loved ones. Through these challenges, he remains anchored in a spiritual perspective that reminds him that the ultimate reward for faithful leadership is not earthly applause but heavenly affirmation.

Listeners will come away with practical wisdom on how to lead with empathy, pursue continuous growth, make tough decisions with grace, and cultivate future leaders who can carry the torch forward. Jeremiah’s insights into the difference between popularity and influence, and his emphasis on legacy over recognition, are especially poignant for those navigating leadership in complex or high-stakes environments.

Whether you are an emerging leader searching for clarity or an experienced executive facing burnout or resistance, this conversation will reignite your sense of purpose and deepen your commitment to transformational leadership. Jeremiah’s words challenge us to ask ourselves the hard questions: Why do I lead? What impact am I making? And what legacy will I leave behind?

You can tune in now to hear a timely and compelling conversation that will inspire you to lead authentically, serve with conviction, and shine in your corner. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow leader committed to making a lasting difference.

What defines a truly great leader? Is it authority, expertise, or the power to inspire and uplift others? And how can coaching transform the leaders of today into the changemakers of tomorrow?

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Maurice Matumo, CEO of CDI Africa Coaching Group, to explore the shifting landscape of leadership and the vital role coaching plays in building inclusive, people-centered organizations.

With decades of experience in the banking sector, Maurice has witnessed the stark contrast between transformational and toxic leadership. He shares his personal encounters with both, revealing how insecurity and lack of trust in leadership can create fear-based work environments, while transformational leadership builds trust, inclusion, and empowers teams through a coaching mindset.

A key theme in our conversation is the evolution of leadership—especially in response to the expectations of younger generations. Maurice reflects on his own leadership journey, from taking early responsibility after losing his father to rising through corporate ranks. He emphasizes a crucial insight: many leaders ascend based on technical expertise rather than leadership ability, often resulting in command-and-control workplaces rather than supportive ones. This, he asserts, must change.

At CDI Africa, Maurice and his team are pioneering efforts to democratize coaching as a critical element of leadership development. From one-on-one coaching to global certifications and mastery programs, CDI Africa is embedding coaching deeply into organizational culture. Maurice also outlines CDI’s bold plans to launch a Leadership Academy and Coaching Academy to expand access to coaching across the continent—initiatives aimed not only at individual growth but at building a sustainable leadership ecosystem rooted in development, engagement, and collective success.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Maurice shares a heartfelt perspective on leadership at a personal level. As a grandfather, he values balance, joy, and presence—elements that deeply inform his leadership philosophy. His vision is to leave behind a legacy of emotionally intelligent, authentic, and inclusive leadership, where vulnerability is embraced as strength and leaders exist to enable others to thrive.

Whether you're a leader, aspiring to become one, or simply passionate about workplace transformation, this episode is rich with wisdom, insight, and practical strategies. We delve into the dangers of toxic leadership, the power of a coaching mindset, and the transformative impact of inclusive leadership. You'll also get an inside look at CDI Africa’s groundbreaking leadership and coaching programs—designed to inspire change and empower leaders across Africa.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with Maurice Matumo—a roadmap for leading with purpose, clarity, and impact.

In this inspiring episode, Tom Otieno takes us through his remarkable leadership journey in South Sudan, where he has been working in humanitarian aid since 2005. Tom, currently serving as Country Director for Cordaid South Sudan, discusses the challenges and opportunities of overseeing development projects in one of the world’s most fragile regions.

Join us as Tom reflects on his career, from early leadership roles in school to his impactful role in South Sudan. He shares insights into his leadership philosophy, emphasizing a blend of transactional and transformational leadership, mentoring others, and fostering empathy within teams.

Tom also highlights the critical importance of security, innovation, and early planning in the face of ongoing challenges like conflict and climate change. With real-life examples, including managing flood-affected projects, Tom underscores the value of resilience and adaptability in leadership.

This episode offers valuable lessons for young leaders, as Tom discusses the importance of learning from both good and bad leadership, embracing challenges, and understanding that titles mean nothing without substance. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting your journey, Tom’s advice on empathy, teamwork, and personal growth is sure to resonate.

In this powerful and insightful episode, Tom Otieno shares his extensive leadership experience working in the humanitarian sector in South Sudan since 2005. As a Country Director, Tom reflects on the challenges, successes, and personal growth that have defined his journey in one of the world’s most complex and volatile regions.

We delve into key topics, including Tom’s leadership philosophy, where he highlights the importance of empathy, resilience, and bottom-up community engagement. He discusses the unique challenges of leading in Africa, emphasizing the role of servant leadership over command-style authority. From handling security risks to navigating climate-induced crises like flooding, Tom’s practical advice on innovation and early planning is invaluable.

Tom also opens up about the lows of leadership, sharing emotional experiences such as the tragic loss of a team member, and the responsibility of keeping teams safe in dangerous environments. Yet, through these challenges, he underscores the joy of witnessing tangible, life-changing impacts in local communities, such as improved access to clean water and reduced disease outbreaks.

The conversation further explores Tom’s leadership influences, from lessons learned as a school leader to mentoring future leaders in the humanitarian field. He offers advice to young leaders on the importance of focusing on substance over titles, continuously learning, and allowing teams to thrive.

Tom’s final reflections center on legacy and mentorship, encouraging the next generation to pursue their dreams, grow through experience, and create lasting change. Whether you’re in leadership, humanitarian work, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is filled with wisdom on navigating challenges and driving meaningful impact.

In this episode, John Muitiriri, CEO of Muhindi Mweusi Supermarkets Limited, shares his inspiring leadership journey and how purpose-driven leadership fosters lasting impact.

John’s path began at Christian Child Fund (CCF) Kenya, where he saw the transformative power of opportunity and mentorship. This experience shaped his belief in service and collaboration as the pillars of effective leadership.

A pivotal moment in John’s career was the swift launch of an e-commerce platform during the COVID-19 pandemic. Within 72 hours, his team adapted operations to meet customer needs, highlighting the importance of agility and teamwork in times of crisis.

John is transforming Muhindi Mweusi’s reputation from a 'slum store' into a modern retail leader. By enhancing customer service, rebranding, and embracing innovation, he demonstrated that businesses can achieve profitability while uplifting communities.

As president of the Rotary Club of Kikuyu, John championed initiatives that improved education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, reinforcing his commitment to sustainable, community-focused solutions.

His leadership was tested during economic downturns and the aftermath of the Westgate terrorist attack. These experiences strengthened his resolve to prioritize team well-being, sustainability, and empathy.

Authenticity is central to John’s leadership. He believes authentic leadership starts with self-awareness and integrity.

John prioritizes customer experience as a key growth driver, using feedback to foster continuous improvement. He also invests in his team’s development, creating a resilient and adaptable workforce.

John views challenges as growth opportunities and encourages creative problem-solving. His long-term vision is to build inclusive, sustainable businesses that benefit people and profits.

His leadership lessons resonate across all career stages, reminding emerging leaders that age is no barrier and reinforcing the importance of adaptability for seasoned executives' resilience.

John’s story underscores authentic leadership, prioritizing service, innovation, and community impact. Listeners are encouraged to reflect, embrace challenges, and lead authentically to create meaningful change.

If you found John’s story inspiring, subscribe to the podcast for more leadership insights and share the episode to inspire others to pursue purpose-driven leadership.

What does it take to lead a community to success at a young age? Peter Kitavi, Executive Director of the Kilimani Project Foundation and a certified leadership coach, proves that determination, vision, and strategic leadership can drive real impact. From a university class representative to an award-winning leader, Peter’s story is a testament to resilience and purpose.

Peter began his leadership journey during university, serving as a class representative. While his youth led to skepticism, Peter turned doubts into opportunities, consistently showing up, delivering results, and proving that leadership transcends age.

Joining the Kilimani Project Foundation brought its challenges. Faced with pressure and scrutiny, Peter remained visible and engaged, building credibility through a hands-on leadership style. By connecting personally with team members, he fostered a supportive, trust-driven culture where individuals felt valued and empowered.

At the heart of Peter’s leadership is his transformational approach. He balances a clear vision with flexibility, ensuring team goals align with the foundation’s mission. His active participation in decision-making fosters trust, accessibility, and shared ownership.

Peter’s ability to collaborate with government officials has also driven success. Rather than being adversarial, he adopted a cooperative approach, using performance systems and data-driven feedback to hold stakeholders accountable and advance community priorities.

Under his leadership, the Kilimani Project Foundation has earned prestigious awards that reflect its tangible impact and Peter’s ability to inspire trust and deliver results. These accolades underscore his commitment to sustainable development and community engagement.

As a certified leadership coach and participant in the Stanford Seed Program, Peter prioritizes continuous learning and professional growth. His journey highlights the value of self-improvement, resilience, and integrity.

For aspiring leaders, Peter’s story offers essential lessons: credibility comes from consistent actions, trust is built through genuine connections, and challenges are growth opportunities. Charisma may attract attention, but integrity sustains success.

Peter Kitavi’s leadership provides a powerful example of driving change with vision, adaptability, and people-first leadership. His insights offer practical strategies for overcoming challenges, inspiring teams, and achieving lasting impact.

Discover how Peter’s leadership can elevate your journey. Subscribe now to be inspired by his remarkable story of growth and transformation!