Meet Daniel Wambua. Humble. Driven. A leader. This year, he took home the Dean’s Award. Big deal? Absolutely. It’s for those who lead by serving. And he leads the pack.

As president of the Strathmore Computing and Engineering Students Association (SCESA), Daniel, a fourth year Bachelor Of Business Information Technology​ student ,went above and beyond to ensure his fellow students received the right industry exposure through planning mentorship sessions and establishing relationships with industry leaders. Reflecting on his term as president of SCESA Daniel shares “Leadership isn’t about riding solo; it’s about knowing when to lead and when to follow,”.

His jovial nature and genuine interest in people make him a magnetic presence. Yet, his approach to leadership and life is not just about giving—it’s about knowing oneself.

He is a firm believer in the Socratic self-knowledge, a philosophy that resonates in his leadership style. He works on himself, with others, to become someone who knows himself. This self-awareness is his sheet music, guiding him to know what he can do and what is per se.

Yet, beneath this confident exterior, there’s a current of concern for Africa’s youth. He believes Africa has the potential to rise, shine, and lead the world. It’s this vision, coupled with his passion for securing digital frontiers, that fuels his ambition to make a difference in the lives of young Africans.

Daniel’s not just talking the talk, he’s walking the walk.  He’s already leading projects that equip young Africans with the skills they need to succeed in the digital age.  He’s been part of a team that painted a school in Tigoni, bringing a splash of color and hope to a community.  He mentors children in children’s homes and schools, investing in the future generation.  “I want to be part of the change, a catalyst for a brighter tomorrow,” he says, his voice filled with conviction.

Daniel’s humility is evident in his actions. His emotional intelligence, a skill as indispensable as it is intangible, allows him to connect, to truly listen and understand. It’s this quality that makes him not just a leader but a friend, a confidant, a beacon for those navigating the tumultuous seas of academia and life.

He tells me about his love for MotoGP, the adrenaline rush of the race, and the roar of the engines. It’s very different from the predictable rhythm of football. Yet, a common thread ties them together – the thrill of competition, the joy of victory.

This glimpse into his personal life reveals a man who seeks balance, who finds joy in the simple pleasures of life, and who knows the importance of unwinding.

However, Daniel’s passion doesn’t end at Moto GP or parks. His main interest lies in cyber security, particularly penetration testing. He dreams of diving into this field after graduation, using his knowledge and skills to make a difference in the digital world.

When the need for tranquility arises, he retreats to the serenity of parks, where nature provides a soothing interlude.

Daniel’s charm and insatiable curiosity make him a natural connector, often engaging with people and expressing a genuine interest in their lives. He values emotional intelligence, a quality that has enriched his interactions and contributed to his remarkable achievements.Daniel’s is quick to bow, not just to the accolades but to the people who’ve walked this journey with him. His friends, his parents, and, as he puts it, ultimately God, are the pillars of his remarkable feat. It’s a thank you note that’s not just polite; it’s deeply heartfelt, a reminder that success is a team sport and a reminder that teamwork makes the dream work.

His story is not just about achievements and accolades. It’s about the journey, the experiences, the lessons learned, and the friendships forged. It’s about the adrenaline of triumph, the sting of setbacks, and the joy of the ride. It’s about living, not just existing, about engaging with the world, not just observing it.

Article written by Keith Abert