‘Competence and confidence’: EAC CS Rebecca Miano speaks on the secrets to rising in her career

“Competence begets confidence and the more confident you are, the more competent you want to become,” she said.

During a discussion on Citizen Digital’s Twitter Spaces dubbed ‘Executive Dialogues’, CS Miano shared about her career journey and what it takes to make it to the highest echelons of office.

The discussion was in line with International Women’s Month and featured high-profile women in Kenya sharing their journeys.

Other panelists in the discussion were Equity Group Holdings PLC Executive Director, Mary Wamae, and EY East Africa lead and managing partner for Kenya, Nancy Muhoya.

Miano was the first woman to be appointed to the position of managing director and CEO of energy firm KenGen. She held the position for five years, after which higher duty called as she was nominated and appointed to the position of Cabinet secretary for EAC, Arid and Semi-arid Lands and development.

Miano says despite being very qualified for the job, she at a point had concerns about whether she would get the job.

“I think imposter syndrome is something that affects every woman. Despite being qualified for the job, when the vacancy arose at more former employer, I was reluctant to apply, and even after I did, I considered withdrawing my application as I wondered if I would make it in the interview,” she said.

Miano emerged top during the interviews for the position that had attracted 90 applicants.

“I look back at it now and I realise that I was extremely good at what I do. I believe everything is teachable. Working in the energy sector and my background was in law, I made sure I learnt all that I needed to know and I believe in continuously improving your skills and knowledge by taking up courses,” she said.

Miano said that despite being at the highest levels of corporate leadership with her former employer, she realized that being a Cabinet secretary is an even higher level.

“Before joining Cabinet, I thought I was at a very senior position in leadership, but I have learnt more in the five months of being a Cabinet secretary than when I was in my corporate job. As a Cabinet secretary, you need to be very well informed so that you can offer sound advice to your colleagues and the President,” she said.

On her priorities in the EAC docket, Miano said, “One of my top priority areas is to deepen East African Community integration so that Kenya can benefit fully from available opportunities. Regional Development Authorities are the next frontier.”

In closing, Miano urged women to take up their seats at the decision makingtable and not shy away.

“My advice to those starting out in their careers is for them to be more intentional about their choices. Don’t let your career be shaped by discouragement. Be resilient. Demonstrate courage and embrace confidence. Dare to take the first step in an unpredictable world,” she said.

Listen to Citizen Digital Twitter Spaces every Tuesday at 7pm on the @CitizenTVKenya Twitter handle.