Global Awards 2020 Winner Interview: Akinyi Adongo
Meet our Global Award-winning Ambassador Akinyi from Nairobi! Find out the many ways in which she organizes great events in her community, what makes her events so special, why she is so committed to her community, and why she is so passionate about her role.
Congratulations on winning a Global Award! How does it feel?
Thank you very much! I am extremely honored, thrilled, and excited to have won the award, especially in these rather crazy times we are all going through. Trust me, winning this is my highlight of 2021!
What inspired you to get involved as an Ambassador in your community?
Years ago, my French/Brazilian friend who had just moved to Nairobi invited me to attend my first InterNations event. A couple of months later, him and I were the co-Ambassadors of the Nairobi chapter and having the time of our lives!
In your own words, what is the role of an Ambassador?
A friend, a guide, and a shoulder to lean on! In the past year, I have had a chance to interact with several InterNations members, and we have been the support system we needed. We as Ambassadors are definitely the glue that brings and keeps it all together!
The past year has been challenging with the sudden change to online life, but you have excelled in hosting events, even creating a new monthly travel theme for your events. How did you adapt to the online experience and keep the community spirit alive?
Luckily, we have a lively community here in Nairobi. I intentionally pick guests from the specific country whose theme we are celebrating and have them actively represent their countries. For example, our next event is the Dutch King’s Day Celebration here in Nairobi!
What can members expect from your events?
A fun filled evening where we all walk away as friends at the end!
How has InterNations helped you?
I have been able to make lifelong friends from all over the world for which I am extremely grateful.
What makes the InterNations Community so special?
We are one big family here in Nairobi!
Why would you encourage others to get involved as an Ambassador?
It is a fulfilling position that gives you a chance to interact with people from all over the world. I have met new people at every single event I have hosted since becoming Ambassador. It’s an incredible and beautiful experience!
This interview was edited for length and clarity.
Advertisement
About Franziska Mutsch
Article topics
Related articles
October at InterNations: A Month Bursting with Color
With Halloween and the changing of seasons, October is a time packed with color! Let have a look at some of this month’s InterNations event highlights.
Our Communities Celebrate InterNations’ Sweet 16
Our communities went all out this month with their 16th anniversary celebrations, with birthday cakes and fancy parties. Let’s take a look at some of the event and activity highlights and find out what else was going on across InterNations communities in September.
Global Awards 2020 Winner Interview: Wessam E.
Meet our Global Award-winning Consul Wessam from Dubai! Find out the many ways in which she organizes great activities in her community, what makes them so special, and why she is so passionate about her role. Here, she shares her experience!
Introducing Our Newest Communities
From Changchun in China to Tangier in Morocco, InterNations is launching 30 new communities. Just as our existing communities, our new communities offer members the chance to meet fellow expats and global minds, take part in activities and events, and share information, tips, and all things expat on our local forums.
The Year in Review: 2021 with InterNations
Even if 2021 didn’t bring all of the positive changes we had hoped for, there are still many great things that happened across our communities. Our global expat community is thriving — thanks to our Ambassadors and Consuls. Find out all about the highlights of 2021!