As the calendar resets and the promise of a new year beckons, female corporate and political leaders are not just reviewing past triumphs and challenges but also setting their sights on the opportunities ahead.
Beyond the boardroom, they envision personal growth, redefine leadership strategies, and embrace the evolving trends that shape industries. From aspirations to nurture talent and drive innovation to ambitions rooted in self-reflection and work-life integration, these trailblazers offer a glimpse into how they plan to balance ambition with purpose in 2025.
Innovating for the grassroots’ future
Mary Mwangi, Mobitill Group, Founder and CEO
Among them is Mary Mwangi, the dynamic CEO of Mobitill Group, which is comprised of subsidiaries Mobitill Enterprises and Data Integrated Limited. Mary’s candid reflections reveal not just her challenges but also her hopes for what lies ahead, both professionally and personally.
“This year was one of my most challenging since we started the company,” Mary admits, tracing the roots of her business journey back to 2012. “Over the past 12 years, Mobitill has become a key player in the transport sector, digitising and automating operating systems while pushing for passengers’ cashless payments. Yet, even with such accomplishments, the year came with its hurdles. We had a few revenue targets we couldn’t make. It was a tough financial year for us,” she says.
Mary Mwangi, the CEO of MobiTill and Data Integrated Limited during an interview in Nairobi on December 19, 2024.
Photo credit: Wilfred Nyangaresi | Nation Media Group
Reflecting on the setbacks, Mary says that the most important lesson she has picked up this year was “we should have turned inwards rather than outwards in terms of finding solutions.” She explains that reliance on external resources, such as loans, didn’t yield the desired results. “Taking ownership would have been the best idea, like cutting costs and trying to make things work.” These reflections have shaped her vision for the future, emphasising the importance of staying focused on core objectives. “There’s a lot of opportunities out there for businesses, and sometimes we might want to do all of them at the same time. I think it’s very important to stay focused.”
In the new year, Mobitill Group is gearing up for significant launches. “We’ve been working on a solution for the matatus. We’ve been at this for at least seven years, trying to put cashless systems in the matatus sector. So people can pay online and get their tickets,” she reveals, adding that the Mobitill Bus booking platform is already implemented, with campaigns underway to push cashless payments further.
This, she believes, will be a “big game changer” for the industry and commuters alike.
On a personal aspect, Mary’s aspirations are equally ambitious. “I am taking a data analytics class,” she shares.
Her goal is to deepen her understanding of Artificial Intelligence and its applications, not just for Mobitill’s products but also for broader industry ecosystems. “We are also going to launch a programme to teach new tech at the Mobitill Centre in Industrial area, Nairobi with some partners. For me, it’s about helping the ecosystem catch up with the new tech.”
Yet, amid the rigours of professional life, Mary has found ways to maintain balance and manage stress. “I get on TikTok,” she laughs, adding that she also enjoys reading “silly romance books” as a form of escapism.
“I just look for positive things to help me not get caught up in the craziness,” she says. Her reading habit, rooted in nostalgia for her younger days, serves as a happy retreat: “When I was growing up, we used to read books called Gems and Bones. Romance books have always been my happy go-to place.”
As she steps into 2025, her vision is clear: to drive innovation and growth within her industry while nurturing her personal growth and well-being.
I want to be a better wife, mother, leader and Christian
Ann Waiguru, Governor, Kirinyaga County
As the new year dawns, leaders across the nation are pausing to reflect on their past and share their hopes for the future. Ann Waiguru, the Governor of Kirinyaga County, speaks about her personal and professional aspirations while offering glimpses of cherished memories and future dreams.
Kirinyaga County Governor Anne Waiguru during an interview at her home in Kitusuru on December 20, 2024.
Photo credit: Wilfred Nyangaresi | Nation Media Group
Reminiscing about Christmas during her childhood, Ann’s eyes light up with nostalgia. “When I was young, we used to get new dresses. I’ll never forget that,” she says.
Back then, festive treats like chicken and chapati were reserved for special occasions. “The food was something to look forward to, and also dressing nicely, going to church in the morning and looking smart.” These memories of simpler times, filled with family gatherings and trips upcountry to see cousins, remain close to Ann’s heart.
Today, the holidays hold a different yet equally precious meaning for her. “We spend Christmas time as a family together. We go away and spend two weeks together to catch up on what’s going on in our lives,” Ann shares. With a large family that includes her children, grandchildren, and extended relatives, these moments of connection are invaluable.
Looking ahead into the new year, travel features prominently on her list for 2025. Ann’s personal goals include conquering her fear of water through a cruise experience.
“I would like to do a cruise, but not a cruise of disappearing into the ocean. Every day we must dock somewhere so that I can see the land,” she explains, laughing at her apprehensions. “Sometimes we deny ourselves some experiences that we can enjoy while we’re still alive and able.”
She also hopes to travel to Vietnam. “Next year, for sure, I hope to go to Vietnam. My husband promised to take me there. They have an interesting culture, and they’re now beginning to rival us in coffee production,” she notes. Her curiosity extends to other destinations like Japan and Korea, where she hopes to witness stories of resilience, such as towns rebuilt after devastating earthquakes.
On a professional level, Ann is committed to advancing development projects in Kirinyaga County.
“We are moving from level three hospitals to level four in Sagana. We also have another four or five health centres to complete, and five more markets to build,” she outlines. An industrial park is also in the works, with plans to put infrastructure in place to support local factories. “We have the plans, we are working on the budget to ensure the resources are available, and then we’ll get it done,” she says confidently.
Balancing these responsibilities with her personal life has been a journey of intentionality. “If you need work-life balance, you have to be very deliberate,” she advises. Ann credits her ability to manage her various roles to the foundation she laid when her children were younger. “Luckily for me, I wasn’t as busy when my children were growing up. By the time I got here (holding a position of power) they were already grown,” she reflects.
Ann’s aspirations for 2025 also include self-improvement. “I would like to exercise a little bit more. I picked golf, thinking I would play it, but I’ve been very inconsistent,” she admits. Her goal is to establish a routine that supports her health and mental well-being. Additionally, she hopes to rekindle her love for reading.
“Maybe I’ll join my husband in his book club. If I can get to read one book a month, it will be worth it,” she says, emphasising the importance of broadening perspectives.
In her roles as a mother, wife, politician, and leader, Ann strives for continuous improvement. “I hope that I’ll be a better mother, a better wife, a better colleague, a better politician, and a better Christian,” she says.
Her approach to life’s demands is grounded in a commitment to “just be better”, a philosophy she believes can make the world a brighter place.
‘I want to try and live a little’
Mercy Randa, founder and CEO of P&L Consulting Group
As the calendar turns to a new year, Mercy Randa, founder and CEO of P&L Consulting Group, reflects on her journey and shares her aspirations for the future.
Leading a firm that has spent over a decade providing business communication advisory services, Mercy’s leadership continues to pave the way for innovative and strategic solutions.
P&L Consulting’s expertise lies in helping business leaders navigate complex environments through effective communication.
Mercy Randa, the founder and managing partner P&L Consulting firm.
Photo credit: Pool
“Very easily you can say it’s PR (Public Relations), but then we do a lot more than just PR. We guide business leaders on how to communicate complex business decisions and changes,” Mercy explains. Her firm, which in 2024 expanded to Tanzania, also serves as an East African hub for supporting clients across the region.
The past year has been filled with milestones for Mercy. “One of the wins was setting up the office in Tanzania. We were also fortunate to join Partnership Africa, a global network of communication agencies, further cementing our position in the industry,” she says.
“Another win was growing our portfolio as a business,” she adds. This success builds on P&L Consulting’s reputation as an award-winning firm, recognised locally and continentally, with Mercy herself honoured as a PRSK Moran for her significant contributions to the field.
However, the journey has not been without its challenges. Reflecting on missed opportunities, Mercy notes, “Sometimes you identify a good addition to the team, but before you can offer them the letter, someone else does. Or you go for a pitch, and then something happens, and you don’t get the business.”
Despite such setbacks, her focus remains on springboarding from these experiences to achieve greater success. “You don’t mope so much about the loss; you figure out how to move on to the next and start the new year right,” she emphasises.
Looking ahead to 2025, Mercy’s vision is rooted in lessons learned from the past few years. “We’re confident that we’ve taken the lessons, consolidated, and strengthened our systems.”
With this foundation, P&L Consulting is poised for a strong start to the new year, focusing on both growth and quality in its offerings.
As an industry leader, Mercy is also passionate about addressing challenges within the communication sector. “In 2024, we’ve seen non-strategic communication colleagues secure complex assignments and bungle them, which gives the profession a bad name,” she laments.
She advocates for accreditation and enhanced training to ensure that individuals representing the profession meet high standards. “When you call yourself a PR professional, you should be accredited,” she asserts, highlighting the need for legislation and industry-wide reforms.
Mercy’s role as a female CEO comes with its own set of challenges. “The set of rules for women is entirely different from our male counterparts,” she observes, adding that the higher one goes, the more apparent these disparities become.
Despite these hurdles, she has found ways to thrive. “You walk into a room prepared. You understand your subject matter, you’re sharp, and you’re giving advice. Then you become sought after,” she advises.
Mercy deliberately balances her professional responsibilities with her personal life. “Whenever my son is on break, I try to take some time off,” she shares, adding that planning allows her to align work commitments with family time. As for personal aspirations in 2025, Mercy hopes to ‘try and live a little.’
Nurturing the next generation of empathetic leaders, leading from their hearts
Lillian Ngala, HR Director for Diamond Trust Bank (DTB)
Lillian Ngala stands as a beacon of leadership in the Human Resource industry, currently serving as the HR Director for Diamond Trust Bank (DTB).
This year, she celebrates her recognition by Women On Board (WOB) for her charitable initiatives supporting widows at the grassroots level. "I also got appointed to HRToday as an Editorial Board Member representing Africa."
Lillian is also the founder of the Lillian Ngala Network (LNN) and the Lillian Ngala Foundation. “Both initiatives are dedicated to transforming lives and empowering leaders through nurturing meaningful social change.
Lillian Ngala Network is a strategic hub bringing like-minded individuals together to identify collaborations and partnerships that transcend networking,” she explains.
The goal is to convert every individual into an active contributor within their respective spheres of influence.
As the new year begins, Lillian’s resolution centres on advancing the HR profession.
Lillian Ngala is the HR Director for Diamond Trust Bank (DTB).
Photo credit: Wilfred Nyangaresi | Nation Media Group
“I resolve to deepen HR’s commitment and focus on creating organisations where people can thrive holistically. This includes championing leadership styles that value emotional intelligence as much as technical acumen and embedding initiatives like structured coaching and mentorship as core pillars of talent development.
I aspire to nurture the next generation of empathetic leaders, leading from their hearts. This will ultimately boost employees’ confidence and inspire teams,” she says.
Lillian believes that HR’s future lies in empowerment, adaptability, and purpose-driven leadership. “In 2025, HR’s narrative must remain one of empowerment, adaptability, and steering purpose-driven organisations where everyone can exploit their full potential,” she states confidently. For her, self-reflection is a key focus.
“Regularly assessing the person I am becoming is key to leading a quality life, which enhances effectiveness and positive influence on the planet,” she emphasises.
She is happy that the Lillian Ngala Network enters its second year with clarity and ambition. “Having celebrated our first anniversary, it is now obvious what we need to continue doing and what we need to stop doing,” Lillian reflects.
Digital transformation will play a significant role in enhancing the network’s experience. “Pushing growth through e-commerce platforms and improving data analytics will ultimately shape the business landscape,” she adds.
Lillian sees personalisation as a key trend for business growth in the coming year. “Leveraging AI and data analytics to provide personalised experiences and recommendations for our community of networkers will enhance meaningful connections and loyalty,” she explains.
This focus on targeted engagement is poised to position the Lillian Ngala Network as a leader in fostering impactful collaborations.
In 2025, she hopes to spend more time nurturing her hobbies. “I enjoy listening to music. It soothes and lights me up throughout.
I want to improve my golfing to move to the championship level. I also want to hike more because of how challenging it can be,” she says.
Balancing her multifaceted roles as a mother, wife, and leader has been a journey of integration rather than separation. “Post-Covid, work-life balance has been replaced with work integration, where personal and career life can coexist,” she notes.
As a mother of four, Lillian is intentional about ensuring neither realm is sidelined. “Instead of working late at the office, I have a home office where I can dispense my homely duties and still address urgent work matters,” she shares.
