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This month remains a significant one for many seeing that it is the tipping point of the sum of what has been achieved by individuals this year. Looking back I marvel at the wonder of Manu Chandaria – a man I look upto and following humbly in his big footsteps – of course his shoes, the size notwithstanding.
In many ways Chandaria has been an inspiration to me and much of what I do in terms of my vocation and philanthropy engagement. I have authored a number of books and read even a large number to better understand this thing called life and my role in it.
Largely I have looked at the life of Manu Chandaria, his work ethic, his philosophy of self gratification and of course his magnanimous footprint when it comes to philanthropy. This is why, I looked forward in more ways than one to achieve a small part of the many achievements that Chandaria had so graciously accumulated over the year.
During my celebration in recognition of my doctorate, I remember being intentional about reiterating the giving philosophy by Chandaria to the over one thousand people that gathered at my village in Laburra in February this year.
My memory took me back to a sitting we had attended where Chandaria had shared that his wardrobe was not full of clothes but only had a few suits like four or five so that he could spare his resources to bless others. His philanthropy footprint remains unmatched by the different sectors he has touched – education, employment creation, manufacturing, peace and reconciliation among others.
Chandaria remains a top mentor not just to the business community but also to the public through the different roles that he plays. I remember in September 2022, the KEPSA team and I joined his family in celebrating his ninety third birthday.
At the time, I noted that he had been on different boards in a number of companies and had opened his own doors to those seeking to benchmark. Standing upright at 93 he became my personal inspiration to ensure I am a healthy person and practice a positive mindset. For those who know me, this has been a great help to make me be the person I am.
Chandaria is a man of firsts through leadership. In 2003, he was among the professionals challenged to kickstart the formation of the KEPSA. This followed the launch of the Economic Recovery Strategy at the time, to ensure that players in the private sector speak and act with one voice.
As a serving member and contributor to different committees in KEPSA, Chandaria has been a forefront contributor of how the association can help members to meet their best potential. As a representative of the leading real estate company in Kenya, I have seen this at work and as a catalyst for Optiven’s growth.
It is this accolades and his most recent book that was launched on 7 August 2024 that I celebrate once again. His magic and impact during the launch was lauded by many among them former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, Mike Eldon, Moody Awori, Professor Laban Ayiro, among others. Indeed I join Chandaria himself in noting that to leave a legacy, is grander than to be on the receiving end.
Congratulations Daktari Chandaria on launching your biography, FROM SUCCESS TO SIGNIFICANCE.
