Category Reflections

For decades, millennials in Kenya have been hailed as the “future leaders.” From childhood, we were told that we would inherit the mantle of change, that we would revolutionise industries, lead nations, and redefine society. Yet, here we are, in our late 30s and early 40s, still being called the “future” while leadership opportunities slip further away.

Meanwhile, the cutoff age for youth-targeted programs, grants, and opportunities is often set at 35. The irony? Millennials have aged out of the very systems meant to empower young leaders, yet we are still not viewed as the leaders of today. Were we jinxed with an eternal waiting game? Is the promise of leadership for millennials a mirage we were always meant to chase but never reach? And how can Gen Z avoid this endless loop of postponed power?

The “future leaders” mantra wasn’t just an encouragement. It was a programmed delay. The phrase subtly conditioned millennials in Kenya to wait, to hold off, to keep preparing instead of seizing leadership when the time was right especially in the political leadership. The problem is the time was never “right” for us.

• In our 20s, we were told we were too young and inexperienced.
• In our 30s, we were advised to be patient and keep learning.
• In our 40s, we’re still being called the “future,” as if leadership is forever on the horizon but never within reach.

This endless postponement of power has left millennials disillusioned, watching older generations cling to authority while younger generations position themselves as the new torchbearers. It begs the question – were we never meant to lead?

It is no accident that millennials in Kenya find themselves stuck in this cycle. Several systemic issues have ensured that we never quite arrive at the leadership table:

Boomers Holding on to Power: The older generation’s reluctance to pass the baton has been a significant roadblock. Many boomers and Gen X leaders have stayed in power far longer than anticipated, refusing to step aside for fresh perspectives. This stagnation has kept millennials in waiting mode, never given the chance to prove their top political leadership potential.

The Economic Setback: Millennials entered the workforce during economic crises, 2008’s financial collapse, stagnating wages, and soaring student debt. While past generations climbed corporate ladders with relative ease, millennials had to fight just to stay afloat. Many struggled to build financial stability, let alone claim leadership positions.

The Age-Locked System: Opportunities meant for young leaders often cap eligibility at 35. But when millennials were in their 20s, leadership positions were scarce. Now, in our late 30s and early 40s, we’re deemed too old for youth programs but not yet established enough for executive and top political leadership roles. This strategic cutoff ensures that leadership keeps slipping from our grasp.

If Gen Z wants to avoid the same trap, they must break the cycle and claim leadership now—without waiting for permission. Here’s how:

• Don’t Wait for It: One of the biggest lessons for millennials was realising that leadership isn’t just going to come to us on its own. Gen Z should boldly take the reins! They can run for office, pursue executive roles, and create their own leadership opportunities instead of waiting for an invitation.
• Extend the Table: If the current leadership structure isn’t welcoming enough, Gen Z can build their own systems! It’s all about creating new platforms, industries, and opportunities rather than trying to squeeze into outdated models that were never meant to include them.
• Ignore the “Too Young” Lie: When people say, “You’re too young to lead,” remember that it’s just a way to delay your power. Millennials faced the same challenge, and as time went on, we were told we were suddenly “too old.” The best time to lead is always right now!
• Leverage Technology and Social Movements: Millennials didn’t have the advantage of digital activism the way Gen Z does today. With social media and grassroots movements, Gen Z has the power to drive change faster than any generation before! It’s important for them to use this opportunity to amplify their voices, connect communities, and inspire institutional shifts.

While millennials find themselves trapped in a cycle of postponed leadership, there remains hope. The essential action is to cease the waiting. Here’s how we can assert our significance:

• Challenge the Narrative: We are not the leaders of tomorrow; we are the leaders of today. It’s crucial to shift the conversation and claim our power in the present instead of anticipating an invitation that may never arrive.
• Create Parallel Leadership Structures: If traditional institutions exclude us, we must build our own. Through startups, independent media, or grassroots movements, millennials need to forge spaces where they can lead on their own terms.
• Mentor and Collaborate with Gen Z: Instead of viewing Gen Z as rivals, millennials ought to collaborate with them to end the cycle of postponed power. Together, these generations can challenge the status quo and dismantle outdated hierarchies.
• Run for Office, Take Leadership Roles: In politics, corporate leadership, or community initiatives, millennials need to step into leadership roles now. The more of us who take action, the more challenging it becomes to keep us on the sidelines.

The notion that millennials are the “future leaders” has been misleading, keeping us in a cycle of preparation, hope, and anticipation while actual leadership stayed just beyond our grasp. If we keep waiting, we risk growing older, still convinced that our time will eventually arrive. Gen Z needs to learn from our errors and seize leadership now without seeking approval. Millennials should discard the falsehood of the “future leader” and step into the roles we were always meant to occupy. The moment is now. No more delays. No more justifications. We lead today.

Author

Dr. Gilbert A. Ang’ana is a Social Scientist at the core. He thinks, acts, and influences on leadership, governance, and policy.

As I sit down to reflect on my first month as a Policy Leader Fellow (PLF) at the School of Transnational Governance (STG) at the European University Institute (EUI), I can’t help but marvel at how fast time has flown by—and how much has happened in just four weeks. If I could describe this first month in one word, it would probably be “eventful,” though that might be an understatement!

The Global Cohort: 16 Countries, Countless Perspectives

When I first arrived, I knew I would be part of a diverse cohort, but nothing quite prepares you for the experience of working with fellows from 16 different countries. Every conversation is an opportunity to learn something new, and every discussion feels like an intellectual Olympics. Whether we’re talking about governance, leadership, or even food preferences (yes, that happens), the richness of perspectives is simply amazing.

Our meetings often feel like diplomatic summits where ideas flow as freely as coffee, and trust me, there’s plenty of coffee! The sheer diversity in viewpoints ensures that no two days are alike, and I find myself constantly growing, not just as a professional but as a global citizen.

Professors with Open Arms (and Open Offices)

I must give credit where it’s due: the professors at STG have been nothing short of fantastic. I wish to single out the support from Prof. Alain and Prof. Kenneth has been invaluable. They’ve helped align my thoughts and project with real-world impact and offered sage advice that’s helping to shape my research. I’ve even considered bottling their wisdom and selling it—I’d make a fortune!

Special mention to Prof. Fabrizio, the Executive Director at STG, whose guidance to me specifically has been both strategic and empathetic. And then there’s Prof. Claudio, the program’s Lead. If you ever want a masterclass in servant leadership, look no further than him. His approach is the epitome of supportive leadership—always available, always engaged, and always finding ways to uplift others. I keep telling myself, “You need to tap into this servanthood, Gilbert!”

But I can’t talk about my smooth transition without mentioning the behind-the-scenes heroes, our PLF project managers. Evgenia’s caring touch has been nothing short of a lifeline. She seems to have an uncanny ability to know exactly what we need before we even ask! Then there’s Rami—pragmatic, but with love. His approach may be no-nonsense, but you can tell it’s all from a place of genuine care. Together, they’ve made settling in feel like a breeze. With their support, I’ve felt more anchored and ready to hit the ground running.

Milestones, Briefs, and Case Studies

One of the most fulfilling aspects of this first month has been the tangible progress I’ve made. I’m thrilled to report that my first policy brief is nearly complete, and I’m making headway on a case study that has the potential to be very impactful. Let me tell you, there’s something incredibly satisfying about seeing your work take shape and knowing it might influence policy at a larger scale. It feels like laying the foundation for something meaningful, brick by brick.

A Coaching Agenda? Why Not!

Now, here’s where things get even more exciting. In the midst of all the policy work, I had the chance to discuss an opportunity to introduce a coaching agenda at STG. I mean, why not? If you know me, you know I’m passionate about leadership development, and the idea of helping MTG students and the broader STG community through coaching is something that truly excites me. If all goes well, this could become an offering that benefits everyone involved.

What Lies Ahead: Structures, Events, and More!

Looking ahead, I’m feeling optimistic about the months to come. I’ve got my structures in place for research output, and there are plenty of upcoming events to look forward to, like STG Talks and other community engagements. If the first month is anything to go by, the next nine months are going to be a mix of hard work, breakthroughs, and maybe even a few surprises.

The Verdict: Fulfilled and Fired Up!

In summary, month one has been nothing short of a whirlwind—challenging yet rewarding, fast-paced but grounding. I feel like I’ve already grown immensely, both in my work and in my outlook, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next.

So, here’s to the next nine months! If the rest of my time here is anything like the first month, I’m in for a wild, rewarding, and undoubtedly fulfilling ride. And as always, I’m ready to take it on with a cup of coffee in hand, surrounded by some of the brightest minds from across the world.

Stay tuned, and buckle up—these reflections may not come monthly, but certainly quarterly moving forward 😃. It’s going to be a great journey ahead!

Mi Ciamo,😇

Gilbert A. Ang’ana

CEO, Accent Leadership Group | Policy Leader Fellow-STG/EUI