By John Sande

As USIU-Africa progresses through into the 2024/2025 Academic Year, one of the key pillars driving the institution forward in the refocused 2022-2026 Strategic Plan is the goal to "Develop a respectful, supportive, effective, and impactful culture (We Are One)." This vision emphasizes unity, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose across all levels – from students, through employees to alumni. To bring this pillar to life, the Staff Council and the Human Resource Department in consultation with the Faculty Council organized for an Employee Team Building event as curtains closed on the 2023/2024 Academic Year at the end of August.

Led by the Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mwenda Ntarangwi and centered on the theme "We Are One”, the team-building event, held in the picturesque surroundings of the famous Karura forest and grounds, was designed to encourage employees to connect with nature, each other, and the core values of USIU-Africa. The event served as a powerful reminder that, despite the critical individual roles and responsibilities, the university thrives when everyone comes together as one unified team.

The Nature Trek: A Journey Together

Flagged off by the Vice Chancellor, the day began with some warm-up exercises from Dominique Oreme, who ensured all members loosened up their muscles as they prepared for a refreshing nature walk through the lush and serene Karura Forest – famously known as the ‘Lungs of Nairobi’.

“We spend more than 8 hours together. More than we do with our family members! We are not just colleagues; we are a family. Today, we have come together, outside the office setup to experience oneness through this employee team-building event,” said Prof. Mwenda Ntarangwi, Vice Chancellor as he flagged off the walk.

The trek, which spanned several kilometers, was more than just a physical journey. It symbolized the collective journey of the university community as they navigate challenges and opportunities together. Under a unified culture, members of the university community can leverage on the diversity and enhance performance and accountability.

Slowly the crowd dissipated into groups with participants walking side by side, through the enchanting place sharing stories, laughter, and moments of reflection. The hike not only provided a unique opportunity for employees from different departments to interact, but also a chance to break down individual/departmental silos, and build relationships outside of the office environment.

As the groups made their way through the green oasis, they were greeted by the serene environment, punctuated by calming sounds of nature, the rustle of leaves underfoot, the occasional sighting of monkeys, and the rumbling sounds of the Orange Waterfalls – christened so due to Kenya’s dark red soil that tints it a vibrant orange (usually during the wet season). Not to be missed was a bamboo jungle, a series of caves and a riparian site. The trek was a reminder of the importance of selfcare, mindfulness, and how slowing down can lead to deeper connections, both with nature and with colleagues.

“Walking through the forest with my colleagues made me realize that we all share the same path, and by supporting each other, we can reach our destination together,” said Dr. Paula Musuva, Assistant Professor Information Systems.

“I am barely 4 months into the organization. However, I have realized that timely and effective service delivery can be achieved if we all embrace and develop a culture of collegiality, efficiency and resilience among ourselves,” added Crispin M. Njeru, Head of Risk.

One Graduate Associate visibly moved by the day’s activities, added, “I totally understand and feel the ‘We Are One’ culture. This should not just be a slogan, it should be a way of life at USIU-Africa. As an introvert, today, I felt more connected to my colleagues and by extension to the larger mission of this university than ever before,” said Wendy Auma, Mastercard Foundation Graduate Associate.

Team-Building Activities: Strengthening Bonds

The mild heat of the day did not dampen the members resolve as bottled water donated by Standard Chartered Bank was at hand to quench the thirst and cool off. After the 4-hour trek, the group congregated at Karura grounds for some quick snacks and soft drinks before engaging in a series of carefully curated team-building activities orchestrated by Nawiri Africa. These activities were carefully designed and choreographed to foster creative thinking, conflict resolution, communication, integrity, trust, and collaboration – all essential components towards achieving the “We Are One” culture.

Partitioned in 5 teams, members engaged in competitive games and exercises that demonstrated the importance of resourcefulness, innovation, and collaboration. Collectively, the activities were a powerful metaphor for how the university can overcome complex challenges by working together and staying connected.

Throughout the afternoon, plenty of laughter and camaraderie bustled through the air, as members cheered each other on during the more competitive activities with teams achieving hits and misses. The sense of unity was palpable, with everyone embracing the spirit of teamwork, collaboration and victory, and gracefully accepting and acknowledging defeat or loss. The facilitators were quick to remind the members they were all responsible for creating the pathways that would lead to the (future) success of the institution.

Representatives from the Standard Chartered Bank, one of our corporate partners were present to award the winning group with branded merchandise. Team Phoenix topped the table with 180 points, followed by Team Occupy (130 points), and Team Champions (120 points) securing second and third positions respectively. Team Gen-Z (110 points), and Team Uno (100 points) closed the table ranking at positions four and five correspondingly.

As the event drew to an end, participants gathered together to reflect on the day’s experiences. Dr. Caren Ouma, Associate Professor, Leadership and Management, speaking on behalf of the Faculty Council Chair shared some closing thoughts that resonated deeply with everyone present.

“Today has shown us that when we come together, support each other, and work as one, there is nothing we cannot achieve. We are no longer going to segregate ourselves as faculty or staff, but employees of USIU-Africa,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the staff, Mr. Patrick Obel, Head of Counselling emphasized the critical importance of collaboration.

“This team building event reminded me, and undoubtedly all of us that, regardless of our roles, we are all part of the same team. When we collaborate, we bring out the best in each other,” he remarked.

The Impact: A Unified Future

The team-building event at Karura Forest and grounds was more than just a day of activities; it was a powerful demonstration of the university’s commitment to fostering a supportive, effective, and impactful culture. By taking the time off their busy schedules in order to connect, reflect, and work together, USIU-Africa employees left the event with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of the USIU-Africa community.

“With your resounding support, this Employee Team Building was one of a kind, and just a first of many. Please watch out for a second season in the coming year for more initiatives that will continue to champion this culture of unity and collaboration,” remarked Night Nzovu, Director, Human Resources as she gave her closing comments.

As the university continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the coming 2024/2025 Academic year, the "We Are One" culture will serve as a guiding light, reminding everyone that their collective strength lies in their unity. The bonds forged during this event will undoubtedly carry forward into the daily work of the university, making USIU-Africa not just a place of learning, but a thriving, interconnected community, where ‘Education takes you places.’