By John Kariuki
Members of the Rotary Club of Nairobi Magharibi recently convened for an enriching evening of reflection and learning, featuring an unforgettable session led by the esteemed Dr. Ekrah. The spotlight of the event was on Emotional Intelligence (EI)—a subject gaining increasing importance in leadership, public service, and personal development.
Dr. Ekrah, a respected authority in emotional and social development, captivated the audience with her clear, relatable, and thought-provoking presentation. Her focus on the foundational aspects of Emotional Intelligence illuminated its value in leadership, relationships, and personal growth.
She began by breaking down the key components of EI: self-awareness, self-management, self-regulation, social awareness, empathy, emotional maturity, emotional resilience, and intrinsic motivation. Each element, she explained, plays a critical role in shaping how we respond to life’s challenges and interact with others.
“Emotional Intelligence sustains us in leadership and public life,” she emphasized. “Triggers happen daily—especially emotional triggers—but it is our ability to manage these emotions that defines our character.”
Delving deeper into self-management, Dr. Ekrah noted that leadership is not about suppressing emotions, but understanding and regulating them. "To respond rather than react—especially in moments of stress—is the cornerstone of emotional discipline," she shared.
She also explored self-awareness, encouraging participants to reflect inwardly. “When you are in tune with your emotions, you gain better control over your actions—and ultimately, your outcomes.”
One of the most powerful moments of the session came when Dr. Ekrah addressed anger and emotional triggers in leadership. Citing a profound insight, she said:
“Anybody can become angry—that is easy. But to be angry with the right person, to the right degree, at the right time, for the right purpose, and in the right way—that is not within everybody's power and is not easy.”
She added that mastering this level of emotional management is what distinguishes transformational leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa, Martin Luther King Jr., Jeff Bezos, Oprah Winfrey, and Barack Obama. “Emotional management is everything in your personal development journey,” she concluded.
Dr. Ekrah also emphasized the importance of empathy and social awareness, reminding attendees that the ability to understand and connect with others emotionally is a critical leadership skill. In her words, "Leaders who inspire do so not through authority, but through authenticity and compassion."
Among those most moved by the session was Sarah Karingi, a celebrated member of the club widely known as the “Queen of Networking.” In her remarks, Karingi praised Dr. Ekrah’s ability to combine wisdom with practicality.
“It was an honor to learn from such a brilliant mind,” she said. “Dr. Ekrah’s message is timely and deeply empowering. Her teachings will undoubtedly influence how we lead, connect, and grow.”
The event reaffirmed the Rotary Club of Nairobi Magharibi’s commitment to nurturing leadership, growth, and emotional well-being among its members. Dr. Ekrah’s session was more than a presentation—it was an awakening to the tools that shape effective leaders and empathetic human beings.
As the evening drew to a close and conversations continued to echo with renewed insight, it was evident that Dr. Ekrah had left an indelible mark—one that will guide many on their journey toward emotional mastery and impactful leadership.
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