This archive report was first published on 10 May 2021.
Winnie Atieno Miseda's journey from a humble chapati seller to a corporate executive is a true rags-to-riches story. Born and raised in Muhoroni, Kisumu County, Winnie's early life was marked by hardship and struggle. Her father passed away in 2004, leaving her mother to raise three daughters on her own.
Despite the challenges they faced, Winnie's mother instilled valuable values in her children that have served them well in adulthood. Winnie attended Muhoroni Success Primary School and later joined Nyamira Girls in Bondo for her high school education. However, she briefly dropped out in Form Three due to lack of school fees.
After completing high school, Winnie stayed at home for two years, waiting to join college. During this time, she made chapatis, samosas, cakes, and popcorns, which she sold to staff at the hospital and in the quarters. Her mother also introduced her to a chamaa, which helped her save money.
Winnie's big break came when she saw an advert on the Daily Nation for a course in Mass Communication and Journalism at Mombasa Polytechnic. She applied without her mother's knowledge and was lucky to be shortlisted. She finished the course and later enrolled in a Business Administration course at Kenya Methodist University (KEMU).
Winnie's first job was as a shop attendant, earning Sh100 per day. She later volunteered at the Kenya News Agency (KNA) for over four years, where she learned to put her skills into use and engaged in consultancy work. She eventually landed a job at the Kenya Broadcasting Channel (KBC), but had to drop out due to hyperthyroidism.
Winnie's next job was as an editor for The Kilifian, a Coast-based regional newspaper. In 2017, she joined the Track and Trace Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) Division as the Accounts Manager – ECTS Division. Despite facing pressure and rejection from colleagues, Winnie persevered with the help of her then-General Manager, Betty Muthumbi.
Winnie's hard work and determination paid off when she was tasked with managing the Mombasa region offices in 2018. She was later elevated to an HR and administrative role in an acting capacity until the end of 2018, when she was officially confirmed for the job.
Today, Winnie is the head of HR at the Track and Trace Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) Division. She credits her success to her faith, professionalism, and a learning spirit. She also acknowledges the support of her mother, her supervisor Betty Muthumbi, her CEO Edward Njoroge, and her pastor Reverend Wilson Kalume, among others.
