Diary 101 Podcast

In this episode, Akakandelwa sits down with Mantate for a heartfelt conversation exploring the cultural significance of their names, the power of women’s leadership, and the impact of education in empowering young girls. They unpack Mantate’s journey from growing up in Zimbabwe to founding First Step Today Africa, an organization dedicated to building leadership capacity and institutional strength across the continent. Together, they discuss challenges like early pregnancy, barriers to education, African mobility, and the dream of better connectivity through airlines and infrastructure. The episode highlights their shared vision for an Africa where everyone can find their purp...

In this insightful episode, Akakandelwa sits down with Khushu Chanda, a mother of three and former early childhood teacher turned founder of EduPac Solutions, to explore the gaps and opportunities in Zambia’s education system. They unpack the stark divide between private/international and government schools, especially in adapting to digital learning and AI, and highlight the need for better infrastructure in rural areas. Khushu shares her journey transitioning from teaching to launching educational services and organizing Zambia’s first-ever Educonnect Expo, while Akakandelwa reflects on her own unconventional learning path with ADHD and the importance of embracing diverse lear...

In this heartfelt episode, Akakandelwa reconnects with Mwangala, a fellow member of the SUSI community, to reflect on their inspiring journeys and the power of meaningful connections. They reminisce about their transformative memories studying in America, their shared love for museums, and the cultural shifts they faced upon returning home. Mwangala opens up about her path into STEM, the family support that shaped her career, and her dedication to making STEM inclusive and accessible. Together, they explore the importance of authenticity, intentional networking, and staying true to one’s vision in a world full of distractions. Their candid conversation is...

In this episode, Akakandelwa sits down with sisters Praneet and Kanwaleen to explore their inspiring journey of launching an inclusive fashion brand for tall Indian women. They discuss how Praneet’s background in fashion design and experience as head stylist at Marks & Spencer, combined with Kanwaleen’s practical business skills and entrepreneurial mindset, shaped their mission to address the lack of flattering, well-fitting formal wear for taller Indian women. They share how their sibling partnership balances creative ambition with practical strategy, the challenges and excitement of transitioning from custom-made to ready-to-wear collections, and their vision to empower Indian women thro...

In this episode of Diary 101, Akakandelwa dives into the critical topic of skills development for young people, drawing from her personal journey and work at Tonse Tech. She explores how students can go beyond academics to intentionally build essential life and career skills such as communication, problem-solving, financial literacy, and digital proficiency. Reflecting on her own transition from university to the workforce, Akakandelwa shares how mentorship, goal-setting, and volunteering helped shape her career path. This episode offers actionable advice on maximizing the university experience, setting SMART goals, and developing the mindset needed to thrive in today’s evolving job ma...

In this episode of Diary 101, Akakandelwa is joined by writer and advocate Ifetayo Harvey, founder of the POC Psychedelic Collective. Together, they explore the importance of creating accessible, community-based healing spaces—especially for people of color navigating the mental health challenges shaped by systemic barriers. Ifetayo shares her entry into psychedelic work, the need for racial equity in wellness spaces, and why de-stigmatizing substance use is essential to building inclusive support systems.

The conversation also dives into the evolving relationship between young people and technology. From the mental health effects of AI and social media to the gr...

In this episode of Diary 101, Akakandelwa sits down with Ronald Mwape, a marketer turned social entrepreneur. Ronald shares his journey from banking to founding the Social Green Network, which connects grassroots organizations with corporate CSR initiatives. Akakandelwa expresses appreciation for Ronald’s efforts and highlights how his diverse experiences have deepened her understanding of community development.

The conversation then dives into the evolving marketing landscape, including the role of AI and digital tools, and how social responsibility can build brand value and drive innovation. Akakandelwa and Ronald also explore the power of volunteering, pitching ideas to partners, an...

In this episode of Diary 101, Akakandelwa explores the concept of mentorship and its significance in both personal and professional development. Drawing from her own experiences, she presents a practical five-step framework for identifying and securing meaningful mentor-mentee relationships. The discussion begins with the importance of conducting a self-assessment through a SWOT analysis to clearly understand one’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Akakandelwa shares real-life examples, including how she successfully built relationships through networking events and mentorship workshops. These stories emphasize the importance of approaching mentorship with intentionality, strategic communication, and persistence.

Further, the episode highlights the br...

In this thought-provoking episode of Diary 101, host Akakandelwa Kandelwa is joined by Shawn, CEO of the All Things Are Possible (ATAP) Group, to explore why Africa’s leadership crisis is not a skills deficit but a character crisis. The episode dives deep into how the podcast aims to equip African youth (ages 18–35) with soft skills and character development tools, filling the gap left by global organizations that often miss the cultural mark. Akakandelwa and Shawn reflect on the challenges of prioritizing character over charisma and credentials in today’s fast-paced society, underscoring how a lack of ethical leadership has create...

In this heartfelt episode, Akakandelwa sits down with Diksha to explore themes of personal growth, cultural identity, and the importance of roots. Diksha shares her transition from growing up in a close-knit joint family in India to living independently in a foreign country, highlighting the value of community, familiarity, and understanding one's own values. Their discussion touches on the unique challenges and lessons that come with adjusting to new environments, and the role of heritage in shaping personal and professional growth.

The conversation also delves into Diksha’s work in talent acquisition at Alike, a travel tech co...

Ever wondered how curiosity can shape a career in tech and data? In this episode of Diary 101, I sit down with Malak Hasan Khan to talk about how his childhood in Pakistan—filled with imagination, limited playmates, and cultural depth—fueled his love for self-teaching and exploration.

We dive into his passion for data, unpack how tech economies grow, and ask what it would mean if giants like Google or Apple expanded into countries like Pakistan and Zambia. Plus, we share a few laughs over visa and travel stories. A heartfelt and curious conversation you...

Anusha and Akakandelwa  had such a heartfelt conversation about our time in Prague, reminiscing on the friendships we built, the growth they witnessed in each other, and the unexpected bonds that made the experience so special. They talked about transitions—whether from college to the workplace or stepping into new phases of life—and the support that made all the difference. Feeling seen, valued, and supported, especially during challenges like visa struggles or career uncertainties, reminded them of the strength that comes from a community that truly cares.

They also explored deeper topics—breaking gender stereotypes, the role of...

In this inspiring conversation, Akakandelwa sits down with seasoned HR expert Owen Kabanda to unpack career growth, people strategy, and the power of mentorship. They talk about building skills that stand the test of time, creating meaningful support systems, and being bold enough to dream of billion-dollar businesses and social impact.

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In this episode, Akakandelwa sits down with scientist Fernanda Da Silva Tatley explore identity, skincare, and personal growth. They discuss the power of names, cultural influences, and the role of storytelling in fostering emotional intelligence. Fernanda shares insights on embracing diversity, staying true to values, and appreciating the present moment.

The conversation also touches on skincare science, with Fernanda explaining the skin microbiome and its connection to stress and health. They wrap up with reflections on music, self-discovery, and the importance of reconnecting with loved ones. A thought-provoking episode filled with wisdom and practical insights!

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In this episode, host Akakandelwa sits down with Uwais to share his unique journey from perfectionism to exploration. Uwais opens up about his creative self-introduction—“2 ways without the T”—and how it inspired his podcast, 2 Ways to Skin a Cat. He reflects on his transition from corporate life to startups, sharing early entrepreneurial ventures and the lessons learned from navigating both big businesses and small enterprises. The conversation also touches on his childhood experiences, travels, and the impact of family dynamics on shaping his approach to life and parenting.

The discussion then shifts to Uwais’ e...

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa had the pleasure of speaking with Thabo about her journey from studying economics to becoming a passionate mentor for women entrepreneurs. Thabo shared how her early career at PwC and her experience with the Mandela Washington Fellowship helped her discover a love for building businesses and supporting founders. They talked about the challenges of transitioning from a traditional career to entrepreneurship, including managing expectations from family and redefining personal success. Thabo emphasized the importance of understanding customer needs, finding a niche, and being adaptable in today’s business environment.

Th...

In this episode, Akakandelwa and Nyamilandu discuss entrepreneurship, risk-taking, and navigating business in Zambia and Malawi. Nyamilandu shares his journey from childhood ventures to running a high-end car import business, while Akakandelwa reflects on mentorship, networking, and balancing ambition with societal expectations.

They also explore family dynamics, Nyamilandu’s father’s football legacy, and the challenges of being linked to a well-known name. The conversation touches on marketing, corporate social responsibility, and future aspirations, wrapping up with reflections on friendships, podcasting, and personal growth.

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In this episode, Akakandelwa and Mpolokeng explore the realities of navigating life in one’s twenties, emphasizing authenticity, emotional awareness, and the importance of setting boundaries. They discuss the pressures of social media, the value of processing emotions in real time, and the challenges of relationships. Mpolokeng highlights the need for assertiveness, especially for women, and the importance of compromise while maintaining one’s values. Akakandelwa introduces an analogy of access levels to explain personal boundaries, reinforcing the need for clear communication and emotional honesty in relationships.

Beyond personal growth, the conversation touches on community service, leadership, and...

In this episode, Linda Kasonde and Akakandelwa Kandelwa dive into the realities of female leadership, decision-making, and overcoming barriers in male-dominated spaces. Linda shares her journey to becoming the first female President of the Law Association of Zambia, the resistance she faced, and how she strategically navigated her way to success. They also discuss Madeleine Albright’s insights on leadership, the role of passion in career choices, and the importance of authenticity in personal and professional growth.

Linda opens up about founding Chapter One Foundation to champion human rights and governance in Zambia and later transitioning to LC...

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In this episode, Faren Kudzai, Laiba Zaman, Sodgerel Gansukh, and Akakandelwa Kandepwe reflect on their experience attending the SUSI Women’s Global Leadership Consortium GLOW workshop in Prague. They share how the trip was a much-needed reset, filled with reunions, new friendships, and personal growth. From airport adventures to reconnecting with their "SUSI sisters," they highlight the joy of meeting in person after months of virtual communication.

They also discuss key lessons from the experience—embracing change, avoiding burnout, and strengthening relationships—while looking ahead to their personal and professional goals. The episode wraps up with their favori...

In this episode of Dairy 101, Akakandelwa welcomes Yasmina, an advocate from Egypt, to discuss her work in women's rights, climate change, and community service. They reflect on their shared experiences in the SUSI community and how cultural exchange has shaped their perspectives. Yasmina also shares insights on Egypt’s rich diversity beyond the pyramids and her journey of exploring different fields before finding her passion in health policy and climate advocacy.

Their conversation is filled with personal stories, from surprise concert moments in Michigan to unforgettable nights in Prague and Chicago. They reminisce about friendships, adventures, and li...

In this episode, Akakandelwa and Bobby explore their love for music and concerts. Bobby shares why he prefers intimate concerts and suggests watching Taylor Swift’s Netflix performances. Akakandelwa talks about her dream of attending a Taylor Swift concert and reflects on finding her flow state. Bobby, a self-proclaimed optimist, shares how he finds joy at the intersection of technology and art, experiencing flow through DJing and flying.

Bobby introduces "Thinking Like a Pilot," applying aviation crisis management to business and leadership. They discuss prioritization in emergencies—aviate, navigate, communicate—and how it translates to decision-making. They also d...

Akakandelwa and Walter delve into the cost of pursuing a greater purpose, emphasizing hard work, sacrifice, and existential clarity. They discuss how upbringing shapes worldviews, the role of favor in success, and the importance of balancing work and personal life. Walter shares insights from his books, A Beacon of Hope and Borders to Bridges, highlighting Zambia’s potential as a guiding light for Africa. They also explore the challenges of maintaining creativity as entrepreneurs, the need for supportive environments, and the value of different roles in society. The conversation concludes with reflections on growth, perseverance, and Africa’s need for...

In this special anniversary episode, Akakandelwa and Anthony reflect on one year ofThe Diary 101 Podcast. They discuss the journey of building the podcast, the lessons learned, and the experiences that have shaped them along the way. Akakandelwa shares her excitement about reaching this milestone and her plans to feature the people who have contributed to the podcast’s growth. Anthony reflects on his role in managing the podcast, highlighting the importance of trust, flexibility, and continuous learning.

The conversation also explores the evolution of the podcast, its growing international impact, and future aspirations, including expanding content, transitioning to...

In this insightful episode, Akakandelwa hosts Miscah, who shares her high school journey and the pivotal role of mentors in shaping her passion for advocating for children's rights. Together, they discuss the challenges advocacy organizations face, the value of a supportive upbringing, and how stepping out of one’s comfort zone drives personal growth.

Miscah reveals her aspirations to educate large audiences on their rights and privileges and her enthusiasm for climate action. As the episode wraps up, Akakandelwa reflects on her plans to grow the podcast, while Miscah shares her dreams of working with global organizations li...

In this episode, Akakandelwa shares her challenges and insights on goal setting, emphasizing the importance of breaking big-picture goals into smaller, actionable steps. She highlights the value of SMART goals, consistency, and building a supportive community for accountability and growth.

Akakandelwa also shares plans to provide goal-setting templates on her social media pages and encourages listeners to adopt a strategic approach, factoring in the cost of time and energy. She inspires her audience to set meaningful goals, try new activities, and look forward to exciting developments for the podcast.

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In this episode of Diary 101, Akakandelwa sits down with Meanna to explore personal growth, overcoming challenges, and pursuing unconventional life paths. They delve into the importance of setting clear goals and breaking them into actionable steps, sharing their own journeys of self-discovery through coaching, therapy, and mentorship.

The conversation also highlights the value of giving back to the community, volunteering, and fostering behavior change in Zambia. Meanna shares her vision for creating a coaching or mentorship program in the country, emphasizing the role of kindness, directness, and self-awareness in building meaningful relationships. Tune in for an inspiring...

In this episode of Diary 101 Podcast, we sit down with Malali Mbandu, a dynamic financial literacy educator on a mission to empower Zambians with the tools and knowledge for financial freedom. Malali shares the inspiration behind his journey, how his role has evolved over the past five years, and the powerful principles he uses to teach money management and investing. From tackling personal barriers with resilience to fostering a financially empowered society, this conversation is brimming with insights and inspiration for anyone looking to take control of their financial future. Don't miss this transformative episode!

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In this episode of Diary 101, Akakandelwa hosts the insightful Victoria Chama, diving into rich conversations on culture, personal finance, and life aspirations. Victoria shares her perspective on the contrasts between Zambia and South Africa, reflecting on Zambia’s sense of community and the creativity born from shared challenges. The duo explores financial literacy, offering tips on managing spending habits, tracking expenses, and exploring investment strategies tailored to individual goals. Victoria emphasizes the importance of organizing finances and shares her journey toward financial independence, alongside her inspiring PhD pursuits.

The discussion takes a lighter turn as they dream ab...

In this episode, we sit down with Stephen Muraga to explore the entrepreneurial journey behind Nyamuka Africa and the inspiration that drives him. Stephen shares insights on fostering a culture of innovation, the importance of building strong teams, and the role of diversity and inclusion in his organization. He also emphasizes the power of mindset change in achieving success and discusses the relationships that have shaped his career. Join us as we dive into the entrepreneurial lifestyle and discover what it takes to lead with purpose and passion.

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In this heartfelt episode of Diary 101, Akakandelwa takes us down memory lane, sharing her cherished childhood experiences of farming with her grandparents and how family traditions have evolved over time. She reflects on the importance of maintaining meaningful relationships, living in the present, and embracing gratitude and acceptance.

The episode wraps up with Akakandelwa expressing her heartfelt thanks for the support she has received throughout the year and extending warm wishes for a joyful Christmas season.

Tune in for a dose of nostalgia, reflection, and festive cheer!

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In this episode of Diary 101 Podcast, we sit down with Tapiwa Ngoma to explore the art of balance, authentic networking, and personal growth. We discuss how his personality shapes his approach to building genuine connections and the importance of setting personal boundaries for emotional well-being. Tapiwa shares his insights on maintaining work-life balance, fostering close relationships, and the role of self-awareness in achieving personal and professional success.

This heartfelt conversation is packed with valuable reflections on navigating career paths, self-improvement, and embracing acceptance and balance in life. Whether you’re looking for tips on networking, finding your rh...

In this episode of Diary 101, we dive into a conversation with Chipepo Phiri, founder of Finance with Chipepo. This conversation unpacks the complexities of money within relationships, friendships, and parenting, shedding light on how emotional and psychological factors shape our spending habits. Chipepo shares her journey into finance, along with personal finance management principles that anyone can apply as we approach year-end. From candid money conversations to meaningful advice on navigating finances with loved ones, this episode is a must-listen for those seeking a balanced approach to financial well-being.

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In this episode of Diary 101,   Reto Von Arx And Rabecca Hatoongo share their journeys of empowering young people and making a lasting impact through meaningful work. Reto discusses his business journey and his collaboration with B360 Education Partnerships, while Rabecca, a lecturer at the University of Lusaka, offers insights into what inspires her to show up daily in her field. They provide heartfelt advice for young professionals, emphasizing resilience and purpose, and share their excitement for future projects and aspirations. This episode is filled with motivation and practical insights for anyone looking to make a difference in their own ca...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Bwalya Kampamba, a dedicated conservationist with the Wildlife Conservation Network, to explore her journey into the world of wildlife preservation. Bwalya shares the pivotal moments that inspired her to leave her previous job and follow her passion for protecting wildlife and their ecosystems.We also dive into the future of wildlife conservation and the role of community engagement in shaping sustainable practices. Join us for insights into what drives Bwalya's work, her vision for the future, and what keeps her motivated on this meaningful path.

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Join us for an engaging episode with Kasonde Chituta, a dynamic trade policy analyst and co-founder of We Hike Lusaka! Discover how her passion for international trade and environmental sustainability has shaped her career, from tackling real-world challenges with data-driven solutions to adapting trade laws in a rapidly evolving economy. Kasonde shares insights on fostering economic growth in developing countries, overcoming industry challenges, and her love for nature that inspired her hiking initiative. Tune in for a conversation that connects the dots between trade policy and the great outdoors!

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In this episode, we dive deep into the journey of Naranzaya Batsaikhan, founder of the Youth Negotiators Academy, as she shares her experiences with emotional fluidity and self-awareness. Naranzaya reflects on her favorite memories from the SUSI program and the lessons she’s learned along the way. We explore the inspiration behind her work with youth, the personal development game-changers that have shaped her, and how she balances her passion for making a difference with her personal growth. Tune in for insights on leadership, self-discovery, and the power of youth empowerment.

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In this thought-provoking episode, Derrick Manyisa, Curriculum Manager at the YALI Regional Leadership Center in South Africa, joins us to explore the future of Africa and the potential opportunities that lie ahead. We kick things off by discussing Derrick's insights on Africa's trajectory over the next ten years and what he hopes to achieve with a new co-host. He shares what it truly means to be a curriculum manager at YALI and how this role shapes the next generation of leaders. Derrick's unconventional thinking offers a fresh perspective on the opportunities he foresees for the continent. Tune in for...

In this episode, we sit down with Rhoda Kakoma, an economist with a passion for innovation and a drive to turn ideas into reality. Rhoda shares how her love for innovation has shaped her career, from leading teams to fostering a culture of creativity and pushing boundaries. She discusses the role innovation plays in driving economic growth, particularly in developing economies, and shares her experiences with customer engagement and open innovation strategies. Rhoda also reflects on her transition from Bongohive to Zanaco PLC, and what excites her about the future of innovation in business and society.

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