Diary 101 Podcast

Diary 101 Podcast

by Akakandelwa Kandepwe

Self-Improvement

Season 1

Zambia Has Data. We Just Don't Use It. with Esther Tatenda Zulu

How can better data transform businesses, education, and national development? In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe speaks with Esther Zulu, CEO of PRIS365, about the power of evidence-based decision-making. They discuss why research should come before action, the challenges of data accessibility in Zambia, entrepreneurship, the Data Protection Act, and what it takes to build a data-driven future. Esther also shares practical advice for young entrepreneurs on resilience, systems thinking, and creating lasting impact.

Building Tables, Not Just Taking Seats with Mukelabai Mukelabai Jr.

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe is joined by Mukelabai, a Zambian storyteller and sustainable development advocate, for a thought-provoking conversation on leadership, innovation, and creating opportunities for young people. They explore the impact of the AI SDG Design Challenge, discuss why access to opportunities matters more than talent alone, and reflect on the role of emotional intelligence, audacity, and inclusive leadership in driving meaningful change. Together, they challenge young people to move beyond waiting for opportunities and instead become intentional about building systems, creating value, and shaping a future where every voice has the chance to be heard.

Marketing Is Not an Afterthought With Phatiswayo Chabwera

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Phatiswayo Chabwera, a marketing executive with over a decade of experience in brand strategy and communications. Together, they explore his journey from banking to marketing, the rapidly evolving marketing landscape, and how AI, changing consumer behavior, and Gen Z are reshaping the industry. They also reflect on the importance of self-awareness, embracing career transitions, and building a life that aligns with both personal and professional ambitions. This conversation is a reminder that lasting careers are built through curiosity, adaptability, and the courage to keep evolving.

Corporate Leadership to Entrepreneurial Impact with Sandra Kambikambi

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Sandra, Founder of MySCAP Resource Centre Limited, MySCAP Academy, and LendingScape, to explore what it really takes to build a business with purpose. Sandra shares her courageous transition from a 14-year corporate career as an accountant and CFO to entrepreneurship, revealing the lessons she learned about resilience, financial literacy, and creating opportunities for others. Together, they discuss the realities of youth employment, the mindset shifts needed for entrepreneurship, and why solving problems—not chasing capital—is the foundation of every successful business. This conversation is a powerful reminder that sustainable success begins with the courage to start, the humility to keep learning, and the commitment to create value for others.

The Art of Confident Communication with Helen Von Dadelszen

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Helen Von Dadelszen—communication coach, vocal trainer, author, and public speaking expert—to explore what it truly means to find your voice. From overcoming nerves and managing anxiety to mastering vocal presence and audience connection, Helen shares practical techniques that transform the way we communicate. Akakandelwa reflects on her own speaking journey, the lessons she's still learning, and the power of practice over perfection. This conversation is a reminder that confidence isn't something you wait to feel—it's something you build every time you choose to speak.

Building employability with Sibeso Kumwenda

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Sibeso Kumwenda, HR professional, labour law consultant, and Board Chair of Agents of Change Foundation, to unpack what it really takes to stand out in today's job market. From understanding the role of HR to exploring the gap between graduates and employers, Sibeso shares practical insights on employability skills, networking, volunteering, and building a career with intention. Akakandelwa reflects on her own work preparing young people for employment and the importance of developing skills that go beyond academic qualifications. At its core, this episode is a reminder that while qualifications may open the door, it is your attitude, adaptability, and willingness to learn that keep it open.

The Cost of Leading with integrity with H.E Mary Chirwa

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Ambassador Mary Chirwa, one of Zambia's most accomplished public servants, whose career spans law enforcement, financial intelligence, anti-corruption leadership, and diplomacy. From losing her parents at a young age to rising from police constable to serving as Zambia's Ambassador, Ambassador Mary reflects on the sacrifices, resilience, and unwavering integrity that shaped her journey. Together, they discuss the realities of leading as a woman, navigating workplace harassment, building institutions rooted in accountability, and transitioning into diplomacy. Akakandelwa reflects on the courage required to choose integrity over convenience and reminds listeners that lasting leadership is built on discipline, consistency, and service—not titles. At its core, this episode is a reminder that true leadership is defined by the values you refuse to compromise.

Living A Life Of Service With Akakandelwa Kandepwe

In this solo episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe reflects on the life-changing career decisions that shape our journeys and the different ways we choose to serve. Drawing from personal experiences across volunteering, nonprofit work, corporate employment, and entrepreneurship, Akakandelwa explores the relationship between business, public service, and nonprofit work, highlighting how each contributes to society in different ways. Through stories of career transitions, family influences, and lessons learned along the way, she encourages listeners to think intentionally about their long-term goals and the kind of impact they want to make. At its core, this episode is a reminder that there is no single path to success—only the path that aligns with who you are becoming and the service you want to offer the world.

Nerd Culture and Building in the Gaming Industry from Scratch With Dennis Banda

In this episode of Diary 101, Akakandelwa sits down with Dennis Banda — Zambian game producer, & writer, — to explore the world of gaming, nerd culture, and what it means to build an industry from scratch in Zambia. Dennis traces his journey from studying architecture in Australia to working as a school secretary upon returning home, and how that unexpected detour led him to help create Zambia's nerd culture community through organisations like Nerd Otaku and Lusaka Comic-Con. He opens up about the real challenges of game development in Zambia — from load shedding and skills shortages to securing corporate sponsorship — while making a compelling case for why gaming is far more than entertainment. From tangential learning and social skills development to corporate team building and Africa's untapped potential in the global gaming market, Dennis paints a picture of an industry on the edge of something big. He also shares his thoughts on AI's growing impact on game creation, the power of audacity in networking, and why young African game developers hold a uniquely valuable perspective the world hasn't fully discovered yet.

Six Rejections and a Foundation Built on Purpose with Dr Genesis Mwamba

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Dr. Genesis, medical doctor, humanitarian, and founder of the Lead Me Back Foundation, for a conversation about purpose, service, and resilience. From balancing medicine and nonprofit leadership to building a foundation inspired by her late mother’s belief in education, Dr. Genesis shares the realities behind impact work — including rejection, empathy, storytelling, and the discipline of prioritizing what matters most. Akakandelwa reflects on the value of exposure, persistence, and creating opportunities for young people to grow beyond their circumstances. At its core, this episode is a reminder that purpose is not built in perfect conditions — it is shaped through service, sacrifice, and choosing to keep going.

2 of 14