Redefining Humility: An African Woman Leader’s Perspective Receiving the Top 40 Under 40 Women in Kenya nomination was a proud moment in my journey as a renewable energy and electric mobility engineer and entrepreneur. Yet on a morning TV show soon after, I sparked debate by suggesting that African women “shouldn’t humble” ; that the word humble is too often weaponized to diminish women’s accomplishments. My fellow panelists pushed back, arguing the virtues of humility. This prompted me to reflect deeply: What does humility really mean, especially for African women leaders? Is there “good” humility and “bad” humility? And can humility be a tool for success or a hindrance? In this blog post, I share my reflections, drawing on insights from Pan-African voices, psychology, and leadership studies, and my own experience as a Kenyan woman leader. What Does It Mean to Be “Humble”? To start, we need to define humility . Traditionally, humil...
Africa stands at a pivotal juncture in its journey towards sustainable development, with electric mobility emerging as a transformative force. As the continent grapples with the challenges of urbanization, pollution, and energy access, the shift towards electric vehicles offers a glimmer of hope for a cleaner, more efficient future. However, to truly harness the potential of this technology, we must recognize the importance of supporting local founders who intimately understand the needs and nuances of their communities. Understanding the Local Perspective: Africa is not a monolith; its diverse landscape encompasses a multitude of cultures, climates, and infrastructural challenges. From bustling metropolises to remote rural villages, each region presents its own set of obstacles to the widespread adoption of electric mobility. This is where the expertise of local founders becomes invaluable. Having grown up amidst these complexities, they possess an intimate understanding of the unique...