YLA opened my eyes to the need for radical changes if I want my business to thrive

I serve as the Finance Director of New Down-Town, a vibrant retail chain serving Kirinyaga County and surrounding areas. With our 9 branches and robust distribution network, we are proud to support the dreams of 700 to 1000 farmers, adapting to the intensity of each planting season. But let me tell you, our journey has been transformed through Yara Leadership Academy (YLA), leaving an indelible mark on our business and the incredible people we serve.

When I first heard about a capacity-development program, I had expected a focus primarily on sales and marketing strategies. But oh, was I pleasantly surprised! YLA took a more holistic approach, delving into all aspects of business management. It was a breath of fresh air, filling a clear gap that existed in our industry. You see, as a retail chain, we oversee a network of retailers and stockists, and we have witnessed the immense untapped potential within our existing business models. YLA arrived just in time, addressing this need, and helping us realize that our growth is deeply intertwined with the success of the farmers we serve. When they thrive, we thrive as a franchise.

Running a business is no walk in the park. We face challenges at every turn - the ever-increasing costs, the art of staff management, and nurturing strong supplier relationships, just to name a few. YLA’s program design was a game-changer, providing us with a crystal-clear understanding of the intricate business landscape and equipping us with the skills to navigate the diverse challenges that come our way. The “Growth Mindset” module, in particular, struck a chord with me. It laid the foundation for transformative thinking, opening our minds to exciting new opportunities and encouraging us to embrace bold entrepreneurship. The simplicity and practicality of YLA’s approach made the learning experience a true joy.

Looking ahead, I am bursting with enthusiasm to pass on the knowledge I gained from YLA to my managers and staff. It is my mission to empower them with a comprehensive understanding of our business, its needs, and the invaluable role they play in our collective success. Together, we can achieve remarkable things! To move our business forward, it is going to take all hands on deck.

But let me tell you what drives me the most - it’s the unwavering desire to prioritize the growth of our farmers. We are committed to integrating them into our business plans, ensuring their resilience and stability in the face of an ever-changing world. By placing our farmers at the forefront of our operations, we can cultivate a future where their success becomes our success. Through knowledge transfer, collaboration, and a shared vision, we are building a business that uplifts and supports the very heart of our community.

I celebrate the incredible power of YLA in bridging gaps in business management and igniting a collective spirit of growth. Together, with an unwavering dedication to empowering our team and putting farmers first, New Down-Town is poised to embark on a journey of sustainable growth and impact. 

By embracing the growth of our retailers and farmers, we unlocked our own potential for success. With newfound knowledge and a deep passion to empower our team, we are poised to soar to new heights.