The Power of Community (Part 2): Konseye Members Reflect on a Year of Impact

Hello Friends,

Happy Monday! 

As we step into a new week, we’re continuing December’s community theme by sharing reflections from two more inspiring members of the Konseye community. This month, we’re highlighting the achievements, insights, and unique stories of Katongo Mulenga (Zambia) and Mercy Ayodele (Nigeria). Their work ranges from advancing education and sustainability to tackling food insecurity through technology and they offer thoughtful reminders of the impact that we can all achieve when we follow our passion. 

Let’s hear from them!

KATONGO MULENGA (Zambia) - Community Manager

Exciting Projects: 

I am currently working on a project that focuses on ending child marriages and teenage pregnancies by promoting and advocating for quality education. The focus group is teenage girls, teenage boys, and teenage mothers. I started my project in June and I am proud to report that I have 17 beneficiaries so far.

Highlight of 2024:

I began an exciting new role as Community Manager at United People Global (UPG), following my graduation as a UPG Spark Fellow just last month, where I had the privilege of collaborating closely with the organization’s membership team. In October, I had the opportunity to visit the Hurricane Island Center for Science and Leadership which is off the coast of Maine, USA to participate in a sustainability program. Additionally, I earned a certificate in Key Essentials: The Sustainable Development Goals and the Law from the University of Cambridge—a fully sponsored, self-study short course.

Why Mentoring Matters:

Mentorship is important to me because it provides me with the right tools, skills, support and guidance that I need in order to reach my full potential.

Personal Slogan:

There is absolutely no chance of failure with God, but you have got to do your part.

MERCY AYODELE (Nigeria) - Data Scientist

Exciting Projects: 

I am working on a project for a Hackathon (It's like a tech competition where people  with different tech skills come together to work as a team). My team and I are currently working on building a mobile application to support food security. The app will - among other things -  help farmers detect diseases on their crops in real time. It's really exciting to be a part of the team and to work on this project.

Highlight of 2024:

A major highlight of 2024 is completing the national youth service program in Nigeria. It is a one year mandatory program that is typically completed after finishing your undergraduate degree. It is an opportunity to gain your first major work experience for a year. During this period, I learnt a lot of new things including about myself. I also got admitted to the prestigious Green Fellows Program at The Green Institute! This incredible opportunity will allow me to deepen my knowledge and expertise in sustainability, clean energy and food security, while contributing to innovative solutions that promote environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. I am looking forward to connecting with fellow passionate individuals, learning from industry experts, and making a positive impact in these critical areas.

Why Mentoring Matters:

Mentoring is important to me because it sets the path for me. It helps me get past the stairway easily without obstruction.

Personal Slogan:

It is not over until it is over.

Hearing from Katongo and Mercy, I’m struck by their dedication to driving real change in their communities while also focusing on their own growth. Katongo’s commitment to empowering others through education is a powerful reminder of how much one person can achieve with purpose and determination which is also evident in her journey from being a UPG Spark Fellow to becoming a Community Manager. Mercy’s innovative approach to tackling food security through technology, combined with her reflections on growth during her national youth service also highlights the importance of embracing new experiences and learning as we go.

What stands out the most to me is their shared belief in the power of mentorship to open doors and make their individual journeys just a little smoother. Katongo’s faith-centered perspective and Mercy’s determination effectively drive home the point that with the right mindset, guidance, and effort, the potential for impact is limitless. 

Thank you Mercy and Katongo for inspiring us to pour into others, stay curious, and keep moving forward with resilience and purpose.

Friends - did you see something that inspired you? Share your thoughts in the comments, reach out to them on the community forum, and stay connected with Konseye - a global community dedicated to your personal and professional growth through mentorship and support. 

Remember: With The Right Network, Anything Is Possible.™

Adejoké

Team Konseye