Don’t let your past dictate your future

By Liz Wafula

Dianah Kimani, 23, is the administration manager at Keroche breweries. she spoke to Liz Wafula

What kind of training does one go through to be a manager like you are?

Apart from the knowledge gained in class, an effective and efficient manager should ensure that the organisation’s goals and objectives are met at optimal resource use. Training sessions come in handy as they equip you with skills such as team building, which develop your interpersonal qualities. You also have to be organised and be able to plan for the future.

What does your daily schedule entail?

The first thing I do when I get to the office is check my mail and then make morning rounds around the plant. I work closely with the production manager and prepare daily and monthly reports, which monitor production, dispatch and operations. A meeting or two will take place in a day. At the end of the day, my objective is to have satisfied customers and ensure everything is running well in the company.  

What do you love about your job?

Working in the manufacturing industry is quite tasking and interesting at the same time. What I love most about my job is that I have very cooperative colleagues who help me achieve the set targets, and irrespective of age, there is mutual respect. The beer market in Kenya is full of challenges, but that does not put us down. Instead, it gives us motivation to forge ahead.

What have been the highlights of your personal and professional life?

Every graduate’s dream is to work in a prestigious company and in a good position. Well, I can say when I was appointed the administration manager, it was like a dream come true. It’s a great step in my career and I am giving it my best shot. I believe the sky is not the limit, but just a steppingstone and I am prepared to soar to even greater heights.

Who is your role model?

I have several, but two women stand out: Tabitha Karanja, chief executive officer, Keroche Breweries and Hope Blackwell of Back to the Garden Ministries. They have shown me that one’s past does not dictate the future, and never to despise humble beginnings.

What’s your favourite quote?

Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

I believe God has a good reason for everything that happens in your life, whether good or bad.

What message do you have for youths out there, who aspire to be in a career like yours?

Never give up on your dreams because you can be all you want to be if you believe and work hard on it. Life will always present challenges, but be brave enough to face them. Be the change you want to see in the world. Never let your past dictate your future and always remember God is bigger than your problems. I would also like to urge the youth to vote wisely in the coming elections.

What inspires you to do what you do every day?

I see everyday as a gift from God and every morning I am reminded that this is an opportunity to fulfil God’s purpose for my life. I count my blessings, remembering that time and chance happen to everyone. What matters is what you do with yours.

Future plans...

I am developing my career and planning to pursue a Master of Business Management degree. I agree with what Joel Osteen usually says:  “Your best days are ahead of you.” My childhood dream was to become a pilot and I have not given up on it. I know I will become a person of influence and make great impact in Kenya and the world. 

Tell us a little about your background...

I am born and bred in Kajiado County. I attended Arap Moi Primary School and Enoomatasiani Girls High School where I completed in 2006. I joined Moi University in 2008 for a Bachelors degree in Business Management.

What are your hobbies?

I love watching movies, reading inspiration books, taking photos, travelling and networking. I also love fashion and good décor.