Lizz Ntonjira on career growth and development

People who have interacted with renowned communications expert Lizz Ntonjira are often in awe of her steady, flourishing career.

She has a reputation for rapid growth throughout her time in communications and is said to be the result of a professional journey driven by fearlessness and passion.

At 37, her experience spans roles in the public, private and international development sectors, where she has received various accolades, most recently being named one of the 50 Most Influential Women in Kenya (2024) by Africapitol Ventures, a company that celebrates African excellence globally.

She is currently the Director of Communications and Engagement at WomenLift Health, previously serving as the Global Communications Director at the NGO AMREF.

“She leads the design and implementation of a complex strategy addressing global partner engagement, advocacy and strategic communications to raise awareness about women's leadership, create a compelling case for change and most importantly, encourage and support concrete actions by women, male allies and influencers for equality in health leadership,” a description of her job at WomenLift Health reads in part.

In her role, she is part of the Senior Leadership Team and represents WomenLift Health globally, working with senior global and national leaders across all sectors. She also manages a global staff and leads a cross-country practice team of communications professionals in each region.

At AMREF, Lizz led a team of communications professionals across Europe, the US and Africa, defining communications strategies to be implemented in programmes, advocacy and fundraising campaigns.

As well as holding senior management positions, Lizz's experience includes volunteering and taking part in courses that are dear to her.

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The 37-year-old is the author of YouthCan, an inspirational book about how young people can break through barriers to achieve their dreams.

“ #Youthcan is a collection of stories of resilient and daring youth across Africa. The 38 young Africans from 22 countries have borne the brunt of civil wars, discrimination, inequality, unemployment, insufficient resources and more. They share their stories with love for Africa, passion, honesty and hope,” Communications Specialist Dorine Kanaiza reviews the book in part.

She adds that this is the kind of book that someone would put in the hands of a young African and say: "You are not alone. Here is a story similar to yours, and I hope it will inspire you to forge ahead, regardless of the barriers ahead of you.

In her quest to inspire the youth, Lizz reflects on her humble background, which has motivated her to be who she is today.

Her upbringing exposed her to different types of people, especially those who are oppressed, and it was then that her passion for advocacy grew.

Lizz tells Eve: "My commitment to pressing social justice issues in general has deep roots. Being a child of civil servants who were posted all over the country, including Nairobi and rural towns in northern and central Kenya, I grew up witnessing first-hand the injustices faced by vulnerable and minority groups - especially girls and women".

She adds: "From girls being denied an education and married off so that their bride price can be used to educate their brothers, to women being denied the right to own land, to the reverse ageism and outright sexism that stifle the contributions of young women in the workplace, there are reminders all around us of a world where injustice is the norm."

Her advice to young women is not to be afraid to speak up in the workplace, no matter the odds.

“In the beginning stages of your career, you’ve got to prove your work ethic and abilities. You’ve got to show you are capable. Then you can start to really add value and move onto the next stepping stone of your career by being proactive about it. Ask for stretch assignments, ask to take on more duties etc,” Lizz says, adding, “Mentorship is also critical, and it plays a huge role in anyone’s career journey. I would say find women who share parallel experiences and collaborate with male leaders you respect- there is a lot you can learn from them.”

She urges women not to be afraid of being ostracised or rejected for speaking up, as respect comes when your voice is heard.

"I have often asked questions when I needed clarity and questioned anything that did not sit right with my conscience. I always ask the uncomfortable questions because I love clarity. I hate being stuck in grey areas or assumptions".

Lizz began her career in the media at the age of 19. She was a columnist for a national publication while simultaneously studying for her law degree.

It was a fitting role as she had already developed a keen interest and passion for communications.

“Every role I’ve held has fulfilled a particular purpose and has facilitated me in accomplishing either a short- or long-term goal I had or have set for myself,” she says of her career growth.

She notes that corporate communications isn't all about the perceived glitz and glamour. Rather, the field requires professionals to stay on top of their game, to keep learning and networking.

"It's about thinking outside the box and doing your best to translate a company's vision and mission into tangible results. This requires a lot of creative pivoting," says Lizz, adding, "It's about staying ahead of the curve by reading a lot, understanding new trends, especially how digital media is disrupting the industry, and using technology in your content supply chains to automate operations, drive decision-making and personalise consumer and stakeholder experiences."