APEX Fellowship intern works to promote African business development in Kenya

Byera Kashangaki ’24, a double major in global and international studies as well as French and francophone studies at the College of Wooster, took her APEX Fellowship as an opportunity to explore the field she most envisions herself in following graduation. Kashangaki interned for Finaltus, an investment and traction company based in her home city of Nairobi, Kenya, which specializes in agriculture and technology. During her time there, Kashangaki played a role in offering sustainable solutions for companies in Africa, as well as communicating with potential future clients. Though this particular opportunity was different than other internships Kashangaki has participated in, she valued the chance to grow her ability to adapt to new situations and working conditions. Under the mentorship of Naoko Skala, assistant professor of theater and dance; South Asian studies, Kashangaki was able to cultivate writing, communication, and interrogative skills.

“This internship strengthened my passion for African development and innovation because I have worked with a company that strives to help other companies improve on their strategies. I will continue to pursue jobs that focus on this area and possibly other related fields such as consulting and investment management for Africa.”
—Byera Kashangaki ’24

How did you learn about the internship opportunity for your APEX Fellowship?

“I learned about it from my dad who works in a similar field. I really wanted to be at home this summer because I had not been home since I left in 2021 for Wooster. I thought it would be a great idea to complete the fellowship because I would be gaining valuable work experience while also spending time with family. I thought the position was a good fit for me because the company I worked for focuses on investment and transaction advising for companies across Africa. They work in several sectors such as agriculture and technology and are focused on developing sustainable solutions for companies through developing business plans and financial modeling. I am passionate about African development and am working towards building a career in this, so I felt like this position would help me understand what development projects on the African continent look like.”

What interests you most about the work you did? 

“I enjoyed reading previous reports on the company’s work because it helped me put their projects into context. I also enjoyed making a recommendation to one of their clients’ tours and travel department. I was asked to brainstorm ideas and research information regarding strategies that other tours and travel companies have used to be successful. I also enjoyed writing letters to various development agencies and funds that my company asked me to identify as potential future clients. I highlighted some of the company’s strengths and how the mission of each particular fund aligned with our company’s mission. I found it interesting to read about all the different organizations that are promoting African Development through various programs.”

Who was your fellowship mentor and how did they help you to succeed in this position?

“Naoko Skala was helpful when we had our meeting at Wooster as she outlined everything that was expected of me including deadlines for submitting reflections and weekly logs. She provided useful feedback on my reflections by sharing her appreciation for writing expressing my thoughts on my experience. She communicated well and sent prompts well in advance.”

What are some skills you’ve learned that you see yourself carrying forward in your career?

“I have learned how to adapt to a new environment through this internship. At first, I had a hard time adjusting because I kept comparing it to my internship experience last year but after a few weeks I adapted to the working culture there. I think adaptability is an important skill that helps one learn how to cope with different people and working styles, and I am confident that I can work in almost any workspace after this experience. Other skills I’ve improved upon have been writing, communicating, and asking questions. I have definitely improved in my writing because most of my assignments were qualitative. I have also become a better communicator because I was challenged to ask questions if I have not been assigned much to do.”

How has the internship helped you to see what’s next for you?

“This internship strengthened my passion for African development and innovation because I have worked with a company that strives to help other companies improve on their strategies. I will continue to pursue jobs that focus on this area and possibly other related fields such as consulting and investment management for Africa.”

Posted in Experiential Learning, Showcase Stories 2023 on August 11, 2023.