This archive report was first published on 26 July 2021.
Edith Tendwa: A Journey of Purpose ¶
Edith Tendwa, 57, spent 33 years of her life working for various companies, including Nairobi Safari Club and Engen Petroleum, where she rose through the ranks to become the regional human resource manager. After retiring in 2019, she found a new purpose in life and started Exceliq HR Solutions, a human resource consultancy.
With a wealth of experience in human resources, Tendwa shares her journey, highlighting the importance of retirement planning, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the rewards of pursuing one's passion.
"I think the main misconception about retirement is that it is the end of the road for you; that you should just go home and live out the final years of your life doing nothing," Tendwa says. "Unfortunately, this can lead to depression and early death."
Despite feeling scared and uncertain about her future after retirement, Tendwa took proactive steps to prepare herself for the transition. She contracted a life coach who helped her develop a positive mindset and create a business plan for her consultancy.
"I used to be the regional human resource manager at Engen, the petroleum company where I had worked for 24 years," Tendwa recalls. "Prior to that, I had worked for nine years at Nairobi Safari Club where I started as a casual typist to my last role as executive secretary to the general manager."
With the support of her coach and a solid business plan, Tendwa was able to overcome the initial challenges of entrepreneurship and establish Exceliq HR Solutions as a reputable human resource consultancy.
"Consistency is the key where you continuously advertise your services and promote yourself through your groups, free training you conduct and participating in webinars," Tendwa advises.
As she looks back on her journey, Tendwa emphasizes the importance of retirement planning and saving for the future. "I hadn’t saved enough," she admits. "I should have appreciated that the company had a pension scheme and saved a lot more."
Despite the challenges she faced, Tendwa is grateful for the opportunity to pursue her passion and make a positive impact in the world. "Whether you are retired, employed, or running your own business, remember you are worthy," she says. "God has a purpose for you here on earth so use your talents to impact others."
Published on July 26, 2021.
