Zachary Muteti, a dedicated Wildlife Researcher at CoalitionWILD, has always been passionate about empowering others. As the leader of the Eco-Jipe Programme, he manages a community of nearly 4,000 people, including 1,000 students and pupils, supported by a committed team of researchers and community liaison staff.
Zachary’s journey into mentoring began when he joined the CoalitionWILD EXCELerator Program. Paired with his first mentor, Mary, he discovered a new perspective on leadership. “Mary taught me to think beyond immediate problems and consider long-term goals,” Zachary recalls.
Inspired by this experience, Zachary became a mentor himself, guiding two mentees through their own challenges. However, he soon realised that his mentoring skills could benefit from further development.
Zachary enrolled in the Mentoring Skills and Practice Course for Conservation Leaders. The course’s on-demand structure and live practice sessions perfectly aligned with his busy schedule. “The course gave me practical tools and techniques that I could immediately apply,” Zachary shares.
One of the most valuable lessons Zachary learned was the importance of letting go and allowing mentees to make their own decisions. This approach not only benefited his mentees but also enhanced his leadership at work.
The live practice sessions were particularly impactful. “Active listening and asking powerful questions were critical during these sessions,” Zachary notes. The immediate feedback from the facilitators and his peers helped him foster meaningful conversations and effectively guide his mentees.
Zachary’s commitment to mentoring is unwavering. “Mentoring is not about immediate rewards; it’s about seeing mentees progress and overcome challenges,” he reflects. He hopes to eventually contribute to larger mentoring programmes and help build mentoring capacity in workplaces across Kenya.
Reflecting on his journey, Zachary emphasises the reciprocal nature of mentoring. “Mentoring has profoundly impacted how I perceive and interact with people,” he says. “It’s about setting clear goals and empowering my team to achieve them in their own way.”
Zachary’s story is a testament to the power of mentoring. By developing his skills through the Mentoring Skills and Practice Course, he has not only become a more effective mentor but has also grown as a leader. His journey highlights the transformative potential of mentoring, both for mentees and mentors alike.
