Recently, I learned I was selected as a national finalist for the National Restaurant Association's Faces of Diversity--American Dream Award. My colleagues who nominated me said some very touching things- little did I realize the impact my actions and behaviors have had on the individuals I encounter professionally. While I have always been one to say that I do not believe my own press - this momentous event gave me pause to reflect! I reflect on the value and ethos of what it means to be an American - politics aside.
When I had the chance to come to America in 1987 - I was virgin to the politics, culture, etc. All I knew is that America is a land of opportunity - glimpses of which I got through our little black and white television watching "Different Strokes" and Good Times."
I guess what is so powerful about my journey is the selfless nature of the individuals that helped me along the way.
To me the American Dream comes down to the individual mental liberation. Having been born and raised in a country where the basic rights of the individual were not cherished - I have been a disciple of self emulation and giving back.
What's also special about my journey is the chance I took with Sodexo - my catalyst. While skeptical at first about the "true mental liberation" platform in such a large organization - I have to admit - after 9 years (my longest post in one organization) Sodexo embraces the meaning of individuality in the context of the larger organizational values and mission.
It's amazing, the chances that I personally have been able to take and facilitate for my colleagues in order to create an environment where the individual can unleash their full potential in context to contributions for the larger cause. Being able to articulate what I can contribute up to CEO level and actually be able to see the manifestation of these thoughts IS Sodexo. What's cool is that people actually listen to my story. The ability to mature and grow - find my voice in a large cluttered world is truly magical. The power of being able to help others is fulfilling.
Who would have thought that a kid born and raised in Kenya, picking tea leaves and coffee berries on the highlands of the Rift Valley under snow-capped Mount Kenya would find himself smack in the middle of developing and launching an award-wining cafe bakery concept - Jazzman's Café, and now leading Sodexo's strategic branding and retail arm, the Retail Brand Group, LLC. The pure power of coincidences - not premeditated - but now upon reflection is amazingly rich and energizing.
I've been thinking of this as I've heard the stories of the other American Dream finalists and winners at the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago this past weekend. Share with me the story of your personal journey. What have been the catalysts in your life?