Janet Abaneka

AGE DOESN'T LEAD - RESULTS DO: LET US TRUST THE YOUNG PEOPLE WITH LEADERSHIP At Joadah Consult, we have always believed that leadership is not a function of age, height, or grey hair—it is a function of competence, character, and performance. Again and again, our experience has shown that when young people are given real responsibility, clear targets, and the support to grow, they deliver—often beyond expectations. I remember a defining moment in 2014. I took below 28-year-old Osman to Malawi as the Project Coordinator for a major assignment involving the construction of five universities. When we arrived, the client took one look at him—his age and his small frame—and immediately questioned whether he could lead such a serious project. They insisted that I return with him. Instead of conceding, I negotiated. I proposed a practical compromise: allow Osman to stay for one month to avoid a leadership gap, and I would bring in an older coordinator within that time to satisfy their comfort. Reluctantly, they agreed. But what happened next is what I will never forget. Before that month ended, the client called me and said, in effect, “You can remain in Uganda.” Osman had already proven himself. He had shown clarity, discipline, and control of the work. He earned their confidence so quickly that the very concern that almost sent him home became irrelevant. We went on to complete the project successfully—an outcome that reinforced a truth I have carried ever since: credibility is built by results, not by age. That same philosophy guided me again in 2023, when I identified a 23-year-old, Lawrence Alionzi, and appointed him Managing Director of our new Joadah Design Institute. It was a bold decision, especially for a new institution that needed structure, momentum, and credibility. Lawrence rose to the challenge. He provided direction, energized the team, and steered the institute with focus and purpose. Later, he transitioned into active politics—and in the most recent elections, he emerged successfully as the Mayor Elect of Arua City. That journey—from youthful executive leadership to public mandate—proved once more that when young leaders are trusted early, they mature faster and lead stronger. And in 2026, we have doubled down on this conviction. We have appointed Shivan Ampaire as CEO of Joadah Technologies and Joel Karma as CEO of Joadah Energies—both under 26 years old. These are not symbolic appointments. They are real leadership roles with real expectations, real accountability, and real impact. We are investing responsibility where we see ability, and we are building a culture where young people do not wait for permission to lead—they are equipped, empowered, and expected to deliver. This is the Joadah way: spot talent early, trust it boldly, and support it responsibly. Because the earlier we trust young people in leadership, the stronger our institutions become—and the faster our nations develop. As they make mistakes while you watching and correcting them, they become stronger. Joel Aita Chairman Joadah Group