My Experience In Mastering The Art Of Networking
I used to think that networking was just about making new friends and exchanging cards. But as I’ve grown older, I realize it is much more. It is important to learn how to network in order for you build a career that will last. After graduating from high school, suddenly I had lots of time. After burning midnight oil for years, I was almost overcome by the joy of turning 18 and the freedom that it brought.
Soon, I was able to cross off the activities from my bucket-list that I had hoped I would be able to accomplish for a lifetime. The excitement faded and boredom took over. HEARTTALKKENYA came into existence during a time of monotony and flatness. HTK provided an environment that was safe and fun for young women. It was a wonderful source of inspiration, ideas and advice.
Within a year of starting, we had grown to over 100 members. HTK gave me the foundation to start building relationships. HTK was a great support for me as a young lady in her early twenties.
Later, I became a member of League of Young Professionals. This organization provided me with invaluable support for my career development. I held office in several organizations, including the Project Management Students Association. I loved maintaining open communication channels with students and lecturers alike. As a Dell Social Innovation Volunteer (DSI), whose goal was to improve the quality of life for street families, by providing food and clothing, as well as sanitary wares and other items, I gained a wealth of knowledge about humility, human dignity and sharing.
Today, I am a volunteer at the Centre for African Volunteers. CAV strives to make a difference in areas such as leadership, citizen participation, and democracy. This year, my birthday will be donated to Vitabu Vyetu. The NGO aims at improving the literacy skills of urban slum kids. Volunteerism is something I do to Pay It Forward, since I’ve been helped by benevolent organisations like World Vision or Youth Sponsorship Program ever since I was a child. These networking experiences have shaped my character in general and fueled my ambition to succeed.
Chevening membership offers many job opportunities. It also provides a broader, deeper understanding of knowledge as well as a greater capacity for innovation. The chance to make friends with people from around the world is a great opportunity. I will find people with similar interests, and build stronger connections in the Chevening network.
