It was all pomp and colour on Friday,May 17, 2024, as Strathmore University Business School hosted a splendid gala dinner for the BCOM Evening Class of 2024, marking the culmination of their academic journey. The night was filled with heartfelt speeches, inspiring words, and joyous celebrations, setting the stage for future endeavors.
A quote by Malcolm X, “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today,” set a profound tone for the night.
The highlight of the evening was a keynote address by Irene Wanjiku, a successful entrepreneur and proud alumna of Strathmore University. Irene’s journey from a BCOM student to a thriving business leader served as a beacon of inspiration. Reflecting on her transition from university, Irene shared, “I remember my days as a BCOM student. The rigorous curriculum and the values instilled in me played a crucial role in shaping my career.”
She emphasized the importance of integrity and having clear, intentional goals. “As an entrepreneur, one of my non-negotiable values is integrity. It’s important to ask yourself, what are your non-negotiable values? Where you start doesn’t matter. I speak more about finance and marketing because those were my building blocks.” She encouraged the graduates to remain steadfast in their journey. “Do you have a goal? A goal will always remind you of what you need to achieve. Never feel discouraged when people go ahead of you. Some people will advance faster, but that doesn’t diminish your journey,”Irene noted.
Irene further urged the soon to be graduates to create opportunities rather than wait for them. “Please keep your alumni network alive. We all want jobs, but do you want solutions or jobs? Are you able to create a solution, add value? That’s how you create opportunities. Money is a tool to help you get there. If you get an opportunity where you can volunteer your skills, use that,” she added. She also spoke on the power of networking, stating, “Your network is your net worth. Don’t break that chain in your network. Keep your connections alive because your personal brand drives your professional brand. Strathmore should go through you; you don’t just attend Strathmore, you embody it. Congratulations on your upcoming graduation!”
The evening also saw special acknowledgments, particularly for Dr. David Mathuva, the Associate Dean, Academic and Student Affairs at SBS whose support and encouragement have been instrumental. “We’ve fought the fight, and it’s finally come to an end. I’m happy for you all.” He echoed Irene’s words, urging the soon-to-be graduates to continually learn and build their personal branding. “Remember, reputation is everything. Make sure you keep your reputation with you. The values that you learnt from Strathmore, let them be your guiding light.”
Class representative Ebenezer Wa-Kyendo was recognized for his leadership and dedication. The faculty received heartfelt thanks for their tireless efforts in guiding the students.
The dinner culminated with an exciting award ceremony for the faculty and students who were voted as the most outstanding for their roles in making the four-year BCOM journey worthwhile. And, of course, there was cake—because no celebration is complete without it.
The gala dinner was a memorable occasion, filled with reflections on the past and aspirations for the future, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended. The night was not just a celebration but a reminder of the journey ahead. “Tonight we celebrate, and tomorrow we conquer,” encapsulated the spirit of the evening.
Article by Rachael Wanjohi
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