I joined DI in July 2018, and in June 2023, I bid farewell. DI had become more than just a workplace; it was a source of contentment, security and growth.
My time at DI was a refreshing departure from my previous gig at Flock of Birds (FoB). At FoB, everyone spoke the same language - code. It was a tight-knit community of developers, and I thrived in that environment. However, joining DI felt like stepping into a whole new world. With numerous departments each engaged in their unique endeavors, and a workforce brimming with warmth and welcome, I was initially overwhelmed. Yet, I quickly grew to love it all.
Over the course of nearly five years, DI became my classroom for leadership (thank you Kate). There's something uniquely empowering about working in an environment where trust and compassion are so generously bestowed. It fosters an intense sense of loyalty and an unyielding desire to never disappoint. Sadly, this very loyalty and kindness played a role in my eventual decision to part ways.
Pandemic? We got you!
While many faced uncertainty and turmoil, DI remained a beacon of stability and purpose throughout the pandemic—a rare privilege in a world teetering on the brink. With no layoffs or pay cuts, the organization deftly pivoted, and beneath its protective umbrella, we effortlessly weathered the storm.
The supportive trio
Beyond the lessons in leadership, Kate Hughes, my line manager, was a champion to our small development team. Behind her were the silent but impactful figures of Bill Anderson (Knowledge and Innovation Lead) and Claudia Wells (International Hub Director). Bill battled obstacles, especially those that inconveniently fell solely upon our little hub in Kampala. Bill, Claudia, and Kate made navigating the often frustrating bureaucracies of the organization significantly smoother - while they could.
Honourable mentions
I had an exceptional team, and I miss them. I hoped my leaving would allow them to rise and break through DI's pretty sturdy glass ceiling. Alex Miller was always a comfort to work with. I wouldn't ask for a more dependable colleague, especially in times of crisis.
Moses Owori was our MVP of welfare. Thank you for always reading the fine print and championing our best interests.
A special shout-out to Mariam Ibrahim, the glue that has kept the Africa Hub coherent all these years. Without her, the relationship between the Nairobi & Kampala hubs would be a lot worse. I have yet to meet a more empathetic soul.
And to the rest of my Nairobi peeps - sucks we didn't get to say a proper goodbye, but we'll always have Naivasha. Thank you Stephen for the drinks and dancing.
Downtime and side-hustles
Kate worked hard to keep us busy, but my role rarely demanded my full attention. While I loved it, there were moments when I struggled to find fulfillment.
The extended periods of downtime left me feeling underutilised, hinting that my role might be better suited to a freelancer. In late 2019, I even contemplated resigning. However, Kate, in her wisdom, suggested line management and approved an intern for me to mentor. Soon after, the pandemic struck, and I found myself grateful to have both a job and added responsibilities. It was during this time that I rediscovered my passion for mentoring. I firmly believe that every developer should experience it—it's an unparalleled way to learn and grow.
With no pressure and no looming deadlines, I had the opportunity to explore other interests. Side-hustles provided challenges that my day job couldn't, nurturing my entrepreneurial aspirations. While they might not have borne significant fruit, they allowed me to create some enjoyable projects.
All good things must end
2022 came with a lot of uncomfortable changes, not all good.
The APHRC project saw my role evolve beyond coding. For the first time since I joined DI, I was involved in a donor funded project from its inception, influenced its direction and got out from behind a computer screen. I loved it!
The changes kept coming. I looked to the horizon.
Life after DI
I'm trying my hand at freelance consulting. It's a challenge, but I'm optimistic. Some of my side-hustles are not that anymore, which is great.
I'm opening up a coding bootcamp. What better way to fuel my love for mentoring and teaching.
I absolutely have to write more. I've missed it so much. Perhaps all the stories in my head will finally find their way into other people's heads and hearts.
There's a lot up in the air at the moment, especially since I just got married, but what I can I say - the future has never looked more exciting.
I've droned on enough, so I'll say goodbye. To everyone at DI and beyond who were part of making my time there special - thank you. I'll miss you.
