How Kentaste’s Monica Njoroge, Achieved Success with AMI’s Leadership Development Program

Kentaste, East Africa’s leading producer of coconut products, has always been committed to fair trade and sustainable farming. Since 2014, the company has grown from a small family business in Kwale County to a key player in international markets, supplying healthy coconut products to Africa, the USA, Europe, and the Middle East.

At the heart of Kentaste’s operations is Monica Njoroge, who oversees a diverse workforce of over 700 temporary staff and 150 permanent employees. As the Senior HR and Administration Manager, she enjoys coaching, mentoring, and nurturing talent within the company, while managing a wide range of responsibilities, from employee welfare to recruitment and retention.

Given the vastness of Monica Njoroge’s role at Kentaste and her unwavering commitment to excellence, it was only natural that she sought to enhance her leadership skills. At first, she viewed the Leadership Development Programme as just another opportunity that came her way. But as she delved deeper into the programme, she quickly realized that it was helping her close critical gaps in her leadership approach. “I was terrified of taking on projects,” she admits. “But the programme was a lifesaver. It helped me get organized and gave me the confidence boost I needed to see it through,” she reflects. Curious to know how she achieved this transformation? Let’s explore her journey.

Identifying Challenges and Seeking Growth

“I love to help people figure out alternative ways of solving their problems,” Monica shares, revealing her deep passion for fostering a collaborative workplace. While she was already adept at creating a supportive environment where employees felt comfortable expressing themselves, she knew her project management skills and attention to detail needed sharpening.

“I make stuff happen and always find a way, but I knew I needed a growth mindset and better organizational skills,” she admits. With this determination, Monica embarked on the Leadership Development Programme, eager to enhance her communication and decision-making abilities—critical skills for her role as Senior HR and Administration Manager. 

Embracing Transformational Learning

“The program helped me strike a balance between empathy and firmness,” she reflects. This newfound balance wasn’t just theoretical; Monica put her learning into practice through the “Action Learning Project” addressing real-world challenges at Kentaste. The results were evident—team dynamics improved, and operational efficiency soared.

She also began to see measurable improvements in her day-to-day responsibilities. “Clear planning and organization have significantly boosted my productivity,” she shares, reflecting on how the program sharpened her approach to leadership. Monica’s newfound leadership skills also impacted the company culture. “I became a better listener,” she says. “I could see things from different perspectives.” This empathy helped effectively support department heads in achieving their goals, driving a more efficient and aligned organization.

Monica’s ability to distill complex ideas into simple, actionable insights became even more refined, enhancing her leadership approach. “I communicate well—I make complex things simple, whether it’s understanding the employees or speaking the language of every department,” she shares. 

Beyond her professional duties, Monica’s commitment to giving back to the community also found new expression. “I love to give back to the community in my little ways,” she says, and her enhanced leadership has inspired her team to engage in social obligations, whether it’s spending time at children’s homes or delivering motivational speeches. Looking back, Monica underscores the importance of the program’s focus on self-awareness and strategic thinking. 

Inspiring Leadership Excellence

Monica’s journey is a powerful example of the transformative impact that leadership development can have on both individuals and organizations. Her advice to other businesses considering similar programs is clear and compelling: “Investing in employee training yields long-term benefits. It enhances organizational culture and fosters strategic leadership.” She stresses the importance of continuous learning in achieving leadership excellence, particularly in a dynamic industry like manufacturing.

As organizations grapple with the evolving demands of global industries, Monica’s story stands as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that leadership development can have on professional growth and organizational success. Her unique blend of professional rigor and personal empathy illustrates a holistic approach to leadership—one that benefits employees, the organization, and the broader community alike.