Can a single leader’s resilience turn a struggling global program into a beacon of success, even when faced with the agonizing decision of a full office closure?

Tune in for an inspirational and professional deep dive into the true essence of servant leadership as practiced by Janet Ngombalu. You’ll learn how to cultivate a foundation of faith-driven resilience to navigate career-defining storms, the power of co-creation and enabling others over dictatorship, and why leadership must always be about leaving a legacy of possibility. This episode offers invaluable lessons on ethical leadership, managing organizational change, and the profound responsibility of a leader to the human beings they serve, providing the motivation you need to shine your own light brighter.

Our guest is Janet Ngombalu, the dynamic Country Director for Christian Aid in Kenya. Christian Aid is a global organization committed to alleviating poverty by addressing its root causes and reaching the unreached. Janet oversees the entire country's operations, managing complex programs in climate change, gender justice, transparency, accountability, and humanitarian crisis response. She is not only an organizational leader but also a social entrepreneur, a change-maker, and an active board member, chairing the Audit and Finance Committee for the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA). Her journey is a compelling testament to the power of intentional growth and purpose-driven influence.

Janet Ngombalu shares the fascinating, innate beginnings of her leadership journey, tracing it back to the nursery school playground where her leadership qualities first manifested. She recounts the humorous yet telling moment in high school when her parents were called in not for failure, but for her too many leadership responsibilities.

The conversation then transitions to the professional foundation of servant leadership forged at Daystar University, a principle that became her guiding philosophy: leadership is not for the self, but for the service of others. Janet takes us through her impressive career ascent—from an admin assistant at Practical Action to a regional manager, and later, the Regional Programs Coordinator for 10 countries at the East Africa Green Council—highlighting how each step was supported by intentional leadership programs like the Ashoka and African Food Fellowships.

A core theme emerges as Janet defines her leadership style: enabling those around her to thrive because she, too, was intentionally enabled by mentors like the former Executive Director of Fida-Kenya, Jean Kamau. She passionately argues against dictatorship and office politics, stressing that a leader’s role is to create a psychologically safe and materially enabling environment where a team can co-create success.

Janet shares a deeply personal look at the challenges she’s faced, including the emotional drain of organizational restructuring and the harrowing experience of working for six months without pay during the COVID-19 pandemic. She reveals her secret weapon: an unyielding resilience born of faith and inner strength, which grounds her during every roller-coaster moment of life and career.

The high points are equally compelling—from turning the Kenyan Christian Aid office from a global closure risk into an organization’s talk-of-the-town success story through a focus on teamwork, to the astonishing moment she was given Red Carpet treatment as a state visitor in Rwanda for her expertise. The episode concludes with a vital message to the rising Gen Z leaders—to respect existing structures and embrace patience—and a powerful reflection on the kind of uncorrupt, selfless, and united leadership Africa desperately needs to fulfill its God-given potential. Janet leaves us with her defining legacy: “Because Janet did it, it can be done.”

Don’t just listen to the light; let it guide you. Listen now and learn how you can become the lighthouse in your own community and career.

What does it take to become a transformative leader—one whose influence stretches from rural Kenya to international boardrooms and whose vision for social change is as unwavering as it is compassionate?

In this unforgettable episode we go beyond the title and accolades to uncover the humanity determination and values that shape Dr. Anne Musuva’s leadership journey.

Step inside a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation that not only explores the challenges and triumphs of leadership in Africa but also illuminates the universal lessons that anyone anywhere can apply. You’ll learn how a burning sense of purpose forged Dr. Anne’s commitment to healthcare reform and equitable systems. Through candid storytelling discover the mindset shifts required to overcome “imposter syndrome”, break glass ceilings and make authentic values-driven impact—whether you lead a team, a community or simply your own life.

A medical doctor by training, Dr. Anne is a renowned development specialist health systems innovator and advocate for universal health coverage across Africa. With over 15 years of hands-on experience spanning rural public hospitals national policy leadership and multiple boardrooms—including the Kenya Healthcare Federation and Swedish telemedicine pioneer Byon8—Anne brings unparalleled expertise and passion to the quest for dignity and access in African healthcare. A mentor to many and a model of servant leadership she champions the causes of healthcare equity women’s advancement and ethical transformation.

In this episode of “Once Upon a Leader in Africa” host George Nuthu invites Anne to share not only her impressive career trajectory but also the defining moments and internal battles behind her success. Listen as Anne opens about growing up as a responsible daughter at home and student in school made her to learn the importance of leading by example. Hear her reflections on persevering through resource shortages as a young doctor her pivotal decision to pivot from direct medical care to public health and the emotional stories that led her to fight for systemic change over personal comfort.

But the heart of this episode beats in Anne’s passionate advocacy for altruistic leadership—“leadership as stewardship not power.” She discusses how selflessness empathy and integrity are sorely needed across Africa’s public and private sectors and how leaders can and must mentor others especially women to multiply positive impact. Anne shares powerful anecdotes—from being the only African in high-stakes global boardrooms to finding her own voice in moments of doubt—and underscores why authenticity clarity and courage remain at the core of real influence.

Listeners will walk away from this episode inspired and equipped—whether you aspire to disrupt systems, mentor the next generation or simply act with more purpose in your everyday roles. You’ll also get actionable takeaways on building your unique leadership style making a difference from any starting point and overcoming cultural and personal roadblocks that keep many on the sidelines.

Ready to meet a leader whose story proves that anyone can lead from where they are—and leave a legacy worth remembering? Tune in to hear Dr. Anne Musuva’s compelling journey her hard-won wisdom and her call for each of us to lead ourselves and others with courage compassion and conviction.

Subscribe now to “Once Upon a Leader in Africa” share this episode with those seeking inspiration and join a growing community of listeners who believe in the power of authentic purpose-driven leadership.

What does it take to break boundaries, redefine leadership, and shape the next generation of changemakers in Africa?

Join host George Nuthu for a powerful conversation with Priscilla Kerebi—marketer, social entrepreneur, and advocate for women in STEM—whose story challenges the status quo and reimagines leadership with purpose.

Priscilla’s journey embodies values-driven leadership. Beginning in sales and marketing, she co-founded Edsource Africa Ltd, a communications firm transforming education through strategy and storytelling. Today, as Vice Chair for Sub-Sector, Education at Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) and a board member in public health and advocacy, she champions inclusive policy and opportunity across the continent.

This episode goes beyond titles to explore the defining experiences and inner strategies that shaped her leadership. From navigating male-dominated industries to balancing motherhood and growth, Priscilla offers honest reflections on thriving in spaces not built for her success.

Her leadership is anchored in resilience, empathy, and legacy. As the eldest sibling, she learned early to lead with both strength and compassion. Her story reveals how family, culture, and responsibility formed the backbone of her persistence and impact.

A highlight of the episode is her “Innovator” program—a groundbreaking initiative empowering girls in STEM and Technical and Vocational Education (TVET). Through mentorship, exposure, and male allyship, it opens doors for women in construction, agriculture, and technology—fields still lacking representation. More than a skills program, it’s a movement redefining who belongs in these spaces.

Priscilla also shares how she maintains clarity amid noise and pressure. Her “noise-canceling” mindset tools—anchored in values, focus, and courage—help her lead with conviction. Her insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, balancing life roles, and leading authentically will resonate with anyone walking a complex leadership journey.

This episode isn’t just for women or professionals in education or tech—it’s for anyone seeking to lead with intention, inspire change, and build a legacy. Whether you’re stepping into leadership, mentoring others, or navigating uncertainty, you’ll find timeless lessons here.

Through deep, genuine dialogue, George draws out personal and powerful insights. The result is an episode that’s informative, relatable, and motivating—never rehearsed, always real.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to lead authentically in spaces that challenge your identity

• Why collaboration and trust are vital for Africa’s future leadership

• How to align career purpose with personal mission

• The value of mentorship and intergenerational dialogue

• Practical ways to advocate for women and marginalized voices

By the end, you’ll see how leadership—rooted in purpose, courage, and compassion—creates transformation. Priscilla doesn’t just speak about change; she lives it daily through mentorship, innovation, and collaboration.

What You’ll Gain:

• A real-world model of inclusive, future-ready African leadership

• Insights into empowering girls in STEM and TVET

• Tools for overcoming professional challenges with clarity

• Inspiration to lead boldly, even when the path is uncertain

If you’re ready to rethink leadership and practice it with conviction, this episode is for you.

Listen, subscribe, and share this inspiring conversation with fellow changemakers. If Priscilla’s story moves you, leave a review to help amplify the voices shaping Africa’s future.

This isn’t just another podcast—it’s a catalyst for transformation. Together, let’s build a stronger, more inclusive Africa.