This archive report was first published on 22 April 2020.
Byron Adera's decision to drop out of university and join the army was a turning point in his life. Little did he know that his five-year stint would lead him down a path of entrepreneurship and security expertise.
After completing his cadet training, Adera became a platoon commander in the elite Kenya Parachute Regiment. He went on to serve in successful operational missions, both within and outside the country's borders. His exceptional performance earned him a spot in the first Special Forces Unit, where he served as an operations officer.
However, Adera's time in the army was not without its challenges. He struggled with mental health issues, including depression and a nervous disorder called Bell's Palsy. The disintegration of his family in 2009 further exacerbated his problems. Despite the army's efforts to address mental health, Adera felt that the system was inadequate, and he witnessed a comrade's tragic fate.
It was then that Adera made the difficult decision to leave the army. He believed that it was time for him to venture out and seek more challenging pursuits. His decision was motivated by a desire to add real value to his expertise and to overcome the emotional pain of losing his mother in 2013.
After resigning from his position as an operations officer, Adera joined corporate security in 2012, starting as a country operations director for an international security company called XFOR. However, he soon branched out on his own in 2014, establishing Byron Adera Consultants. The company provides expert security and safety advice, analyzing existing security measures and advancing solutions to prevent unseen security and safety disasters.
Today, Adera is a successful security expert, trainer, and consultant. He credits his mental strength and belief in himself for his ability to navigate the challenges he faced and to rebuild his life. His journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience and determination.
