#InTheEyesOfMC: Anti-Hero
Marie-Claire Wangari M. (MBChB, MSc-Ongoing)
Z-ellenial (Gen X+ Gen Z) | Global Health Advocacy | Health Equity & Social Change Advocate | Health Policy | Project Management |
Disclaimer 1: It is advisable to read the entire series before jumping into today's article
Disclaimer 2:: Rumblings expressed in this article are my own. Feedback is welcome in the comments section or via email: [email protected]
As the country (Kenya) approaches nane-nane (8/8/2024) and the fear of the unknown with this year's edition, coupled with an entertaining USA election of Trump vs Harris and also the rise and fall of Women in Global Health (link) plus a week of cabinet secretaries vetting in Kenya (the equivalent of ministers), this edition highlights a follow up to my previous piece on Gender Transformative Leadership (GTL).
The heading reflects the words of Taylor Swift's popular song, "It's me, hi, I'm the problem, it's me." The topic and article format follows the one used in my book (to be released soon) and will feature in Innocent Ouko, MD , The "One Alternate Academy" (with more details)
1. Distinction Failure
The past few days have had the vetting of the next set of Kenyan Ministers (called Cabinet Secretaries [CS]). Each applicant demonstrated some form of distinction failure i.e. they were well prepared to answer their own questions and not the questions posed by the vetting panel. This brought up my own memories of hating vivas (oral ) exams and examinations in general as I inherited my mother's nervousness before any major test and this added me one academic year (among other reasons).
Cabinet Secretary who showcased this:
Tit-Bit 1: Preparation is key if you are to showcase your brilliance. You can tackle this by revising the relevant documents for the interview, psychotherapy on how to tackle the exam/ interview anxiety or even medical advice (there was a lecturer during undergraduate who used to suggest a heart medication for his students with terrible nerves and palpitations)
2. Credit Chasers
These are one of either individual:
Having been a victim of both, it is worth sharing that human beings are fickle creatures and are bound to hold such traits
Cabinet Secretary who showcased this:
Tit-Bit 2: This depends on one's values. To those who take credit, your days will eventually be numbered and catch up with you. For imposter syndrome do not hesitate to get professional help if it is getting out of hand (personal coaching or psychotherapy)
3. Chickens Coming to Roost
Unfortunately the ghost of Christmas past, present and future came to haunt Women in Global Health (hence referred to as WGH) courtesy of Devex (reference). Whilst the founder and ousted CEO Dr. Roopa Dhatt has come forward on her Instagram handle stating "Empowered women, Empower women," it is worth noting (personal opinion) that the issues that plague WGH are due to poor planning as the child's catch up growth took place faster than anticipated leaving the parents searching for a solution on the spot.
In other news, Cabinet Secretary who showcased this trait:
On a personal front, my current job hunt has found me using OpenAI ChatGPT for various reasons. According to the platform, this is my suitable biography which I scored 70%
Tit-Bit 3: Forewarned is forearmed. You should never walk alone (literally). Consult where you can and follow the advice given as per your values and principles.
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4. Flying Colours & Sinking Ships
These are people who already know they have passed the exams and are now just wondering whether they should put a little more effort into getting a distinction or a credit. In medicine, it's possible to have a sixth sense of how your examinations have gone given the apprenticeship nature of the course. A good example of this analogy is the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists' Union (KMPDU) which passed with passing the Collective Bargaining Agreement of 2017 but failed in getting the current lot of interns posted with remuneration clearly defined. On a personal front, this was my relationship with the Psychiatry unit during undergraduate (I loved the unit, and would easily pass it, but will do the bare minimum to pass the exam)
On a Cabinet Secretary vetting front, Cabinet Secretary who showcased this trait:
On a global front, the global leader who has showcased this trait:
Tit-Bit 4: Ipo Siku / Hayawi Hayawi Huwa (the day we have been waiting for is here with us")
5. You can take a donkey to a rive but you cannot force it to drink
This has two meanings (to me) i.e.
Cabinet Secretary who showcased this trait:
Tit-Bit 5: “There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self.” - Ernest Hemingway
6. VAR Check Still Ongoing
If you follow football then you know what Video Assistant Referee (VAR) is and how it can bring drama in a football match e.g. the Morocco vs Argentina Men's Olympics match
Cabinet Secretary who showcased this trait:
On a global front, the global leader who has showcased this trait:
Tit-Bit 6: He who wears the shoe, knows where it pinches the most
Conclusion
In conclusion, the vetting process of the Cabinet Secretaries in Kenya has provided a unique lens through which to examine the complexities and challenges of leadership. The distinctions between well-prepared candidates and those grappling with imposter syndrome, the resurgence of past mistakes haunting current endeavours, and the dichotomy of individuals knowing their success but failing to fully commit, all paint a vivid picture of the state of leadership in Kenya. These insights not only reflect the struggles within the Kenyan political landscape but also resonate with broader themes in global leadership dynamics, particularly within organizations like Women in Global Health.
As we continue to navigate the intricate world of politics and leadership, it's essential to remain vigilant and reflective. The lessons learned from these vetting processes are not just confined to the political arena but apply to various aspects of our lives. Whether it's preparing thoroughly for an important interview, seeking help for imposter syndrome, or understanding the value of collective efforts and advice, these experiences remind us of the continuous journey of personal and professional growth.
The rumblings will continue, and I look forward to sharing more reflections in the future. Feedback is always welcome in the comments section or via email: [email protected]