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
Ho-Ho-Hosting Festive Events in December
The upcoming holiday season can be particularly tough if you’re not able to join your loved ones back home. Luckily, there’s always your InterNations family that you can fall back on!
How to Zoom — An Introduction to the Videoconferencing Tool of Choice
We have integrated Zoom as the video conferencing tool for our communities around the world. With this important change, we decided that it was time for a handy guide on how to use Zoom. Here, we cover the basic process, features, and what to do if you need help with the tool.
Thank You for Connecting Global Minds
Looking back at all the fun and exciting activities and official events that our Consuls and Ambassadors organized last year makes us really happy. And not just us: We have collected some of our members’ feedback and stories in a video!
InterNations Global Awards 2019 Winners
We are thrilled to announce this year’s winners and honorable mentions for the third annual Global Awards! With these awards, we recognize the achievements of our top Ambassadors and Consuls. Learn more about the extraordinary people who make our official events shine around the world.
Blue Skies, Beaches & Picnics: June Is Here!
As many places around the world have been easing COVID-19 restrictions, our members have been able to enjoy great events together including days on the beach, city explorations, parties, as well as outdoor activities such as yoga, pilates, and cycling. Check out some of their highlights below!