habariinspiration 26 msafiri nQ How would you describe yourself? A professional woman in my mid- thirties, who is savvy, dynamic, goal-oriented and has a good sense of humour. I am also a wife and mother of three adorable sons. nQ What inspired you to pursue the Public Relations profession? First and foremost my personality – I am outgoing, creative and an extravert. I had always enjoyed planning events, creative writing and networking. I enjoy being a PR professional because my potential for success is unlimited – the sky is the limit. nQ What does your job entail? As a PR practitioner, my job entails among other things the preparation and implementation of the company's communication strategy and advising the CEO on activities we need to engage in as well as providing leadership and coaching to the team that reports to me. nQ What is it like, working with such a big firm? The telecommunications industry is consistently going through a period of rapid transformation – what was revolutionary just last year is further improved or even out of date today. All the major industry players are positioning themselves for the delivery of the next generation of telecommunication services. New developments in mobile, broadband and satellite communications mean that it's an exciting time to be in the industry. Telkom Kenya is the frontrunner in this field in Kenya. Since I now head the department that will play a critical role in unveiling Telkom Kenya's strategy, I eagerly relish the exciting times ahead. I'm very excited. nQ How did you follow the path to success? Through determination, teamwork and support from my family. It has not always been easy. Being able to think outside the box and re- align strategies to get the same results without commensurate resources can be challenging. Therefore remaining focused, being flexible, understanding and creativity are all key to success in PR. nQ Where do your family fit in with all this? Long hours, frequent travel, tight deadlines, crisis management and much more mean that a supportive family is also key to success. My family are my ambassadors and pillars to my success – in particular, my mother whose support throughout the years has enabled me to pursue my dreams. nQ What is your opinion on women pursuing this profession? Industry statistics show that women professionals in PR now outnumber men in the same line. It's a perfect career choice for today's modern woman. nQ What would you ultimately like to do in your career? I'd like more responsibility at a corporate level – say rise to MD or CEO level, and participate in an advisory capacity on the boards of a few companies. nQ How do you manage to juggle a successful career with motherhood? Determination, support from my family and most of all faith in God, who makes all things possible, does it for me. I try to plan my time carefully and I understand the difference between urgent and important. I am never ashamed to ask for advice and I learn from previous examples. Despite the time constraints, I have an excellent relationship with my family, especially my children. Where I am not able to get away with quantity I make up for it with quality. COURTESY OF AFRICAPRACTICE All in all, I would like to play a key role in building Kenya Najivunia kuwa Mkenya I am proud to be Kenyan communication matters Joan Kiambati talks to Angela Nganga- Mumo, Head of External Relations, Telkom Kenya, about her path to success