This archive report was first published on 20 November 2019.
Wednesday, November 20, 2019, was a day when optimism was the theme of the day at a 'Leaders Circle' hosted by Mike Eldon and Frank Kretzschmar.
With the media reflecting a sense of pessimism, it's not easy to be an optimist in Kenya. Many conversations revolve around the country's zero-sum political games, lack of integrity, and not enough focus on moving forward.
However, there are many Kenyans, in all sectors of society and at all levels, who are competently taking the country forward, quietly and without being celebrated.
Mike Eldon and Frank Kretzschmar believe that the country needs forward movement, and it is optimistic leaders who must point to more than what is broken. They asked, 'How can we influence others to recognise opportunities as well as challenges, highlighting the uplifting dimensions of our society?'
They also believe that Kenya needs unbroken optimism, not unjustified and ill-informed, but rational and evidence-based. What's required and what's achievable is indeed a culture of 'holding on to optimism.'
During the 'Leaders Circle,' participants shared their personal stories of holding on to optimism, despite the challenges they face. Frank Kretzschmar shared his experience of coming to Kenya since 2004 and appreciating the spirit of optimism. Another participant described how he has been promoting Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) for over 25 years, from a time when others thought him mad for doing so.
As they shared their stories, the participants acknowledged that while not all their experiences are so positive, those that are strengthen them. They also acknowledged the power of working together with like-minded leaders, so that their circle of optimistic influence can widen.
Mike Eldon shared his expectation of being able to 'have a good time doing good things,' to keep cheerful enough even in the darkest of times. He asked, 'What about your expectation? Are you setting an example of holding on to optimism?'
