Whereas the Coronavirus Pandemic has caused havoc to individuals, families, the society, institutions and national situations, there seems to be silver linings all the same, though in varying situations. In this regard, memories of a youngster with whom we met during the 10 months that schools were closed, keep lingering in my mind every now and then. That time, a lot was happening to students. There were those enjoying online lessons from some of the schools. Others were totally idol and ended up in negative activities.
Still, others tried to keep themselves busy through helping their parents in different roles. Sometimes in August 2020, I visited one motor garage for attention and interacted with a very amazing youngster. The father specializes in car locks and alarm systems. So, instead of just staying at home or being involved in negative activities, Kimani as we can refer to him decided to join his father at work.
The youngster was extremely busy fixing car alarm systems and locks, of different vehicles, in his father’s garage. Though he looked pretty young, he seemed quite reliable. Personally, I was somehow attracted by the activities of this overall clad young man, upon being assigned to attend to my needs.
Alongside, I decided to engage Kimani in a conversation, especially through seeking to know why he ventured into becoming a mechanic at such a tender age.
Kimani: I am in form 3 and as some schools engage their students in online lessons, ours based around Gilgil has nothing going on.
Me: Are you therefore here to keep yourself busy or to learn how to become a motor mechanic like your father?
Kimani: I am never intending to become a mechanic, but rather a fully qualified engineer.
Me: Really? What branch of engineering?
Kimani: I am yet to decide on that and I am still working it out.
Somehow, the father joined in the conversation and wondered what the publications appearing on the branded car were all about. Upon explanation, Kimani’s father decided to have a look at one. Later, he passed the same to the son asking him to confirm whether it would be of interest to him.
” I don’t mind especially if it can help me avoid making the wrong choices.” said Kimani. The father honoured the wishes of the son and acquired a copy of Career Dynamics in the 21st Century.
Sometimes during the April holiday, I was back to the same garage, and could have been excited meeting Kimani once more, but I wasn’t lucky, thus engaging the father.
Kimani Senior: Kimani does not come to the garage any more. Since benefitting from Career Dynamics in the 21st Century, he has a strict program on studies and now intends to become an aeronitical engineer.
Me : Does he know what it takes to become such an engineer?
Kimani senior: Yes he knows. Particularly, he knows that one has to score A grades especially in Maths and science subjects. Equally, one must fair well in humanities in order to achieve a high overall grade.
Me: Well: I am happy Kimani seems focused and wish him all the best.
Seemingly, Kimani’s dreams of what he is likely to become are quite demanding, and at the same time requiring appropriate alignment. The good news is that he knows exactly what it takes and it appears that he is not taking chances. Sadly, majority students at his level have great dreams as well, but have no idea of how they should be aligned or how they should determine their strategic direction. As for Kimani, his dreams could be valid, as long as they are aligned to his natural orientations. I am looking forward to the eventual outcomes and will be happy to share the same.
Apparently, did you know that alignment of the empowerment process of our future leaders, in this 21st Century, seems more critical than just focusing on grades? When the alignment is perfected, desired grades just fall in place naturally. Essentially, waiting for grades to determine the way forward seems to be out of date in the 21st Century, doesn’t it?
Rgds
Mwangi Wanjumbi (MKIM)
Personal Empowerment Coach
Seasoned Speaker/Consultant/Trainer on Strategy, Performance, Change Management and Leadership.
Officially UNSUNG Architect of CBC
Author of 1. KICD approved Career Dynamics in the 21st Century, 2. Living Beyond Survival:No More Tiptoeing in Life
3. The 21st Century Student:Are You Creating The Future Today? Also, Retired 5 Year Monthly Strategy Columnist (2013 – 2018) for The SME Today Magazine Phone 254772516210
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