The Art of Confident Communication with Helen Von Dadelszen

The Art of Confident Communication with Helen Von Dadelszen

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Helen Von Dadelszen—communication coach, vocal trainer, author, and public speaking expert—to explore what it truly means to find your voice. From overcoming nerves and managing anxiety to mastering vocal presence and audience connection, Helen shares practical techniques that transform the way we communicate. Akakandelwa reflects on her own speaking journey, the lessons she's still learning, and the power of practice over perfection. This conversation is a reminder that confidence isn't something you wait to feel—it's something you build every time you choose to speak.

Building employability with Sibeso Kumwenda

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Sibeso Kumwenda, HR professional, labour law consultant, and Board Chair of Agents of Change Foundation, to unpack what it really takes to stand out in today's job market. From understanding the role of HR to exploring the gap between graduates and employers, Sibeso shares practical insights on employability skills, networking, volunteering, and building a career with intention. Akakandelwa reflects on her own work preparing young people for employment and the importance of developing skills that go beyond academic qualifications. At its core, this episode is a reminder that while qualifications may open the door, it is your attitude, adaptability, and willingness to learn that keep it open.

The Cost of Leading with integrity with H.E Mary Chirwa

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Ambassador Mary Chirwa, one of Zambia's most accomplished public servants, whose career spans law enforcement, financial intelligence, anti-corruption leadership, and diplomacy. From losing her parents at a young age to rising from police constable to serving as Zambia's Ambassador, Ambassador Mary reflects on the sacrifices, resilience, and unwavering integrity that shaped her journey. Together, they discuss the realities of leading as a woman, navigating workplace harassment, building institutions rooted in accountability, and transitioning into diplomacy. Akakandelwa reflects on the courage required to choose integrity over convenience and reminds listeners that lasting leadership is built on discipline, consistency, and service—not titles. At its core, this episode is a reminder that true leadership is defined by the values you refuse to compromise.

Living A Life Of Service With Akakandelwa Kandepwe

In this solo episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe reflects on the life-changing career decisions that shape our journeys and the different ways we choose to serve. Drawing from personal experiences across volunteering, nonprofit work, corporate employment, and entrepreneurship, Akakandelwa explores the relationship between business, public service, and nonprofit work, highlighting how each contributes to society in different ways. Through stories of career transitions, family influences, and lessons learned along the way, she encourages listeners to think intentionally about their long-term goals and the kind of impact they want to make. At its core, this episode is a reminder that there is no single path to success—only the path that aligns with who you are becoming and the service you want to offer the world.

Nerd Culture and Building in the Gaming Industry from Scratch With Dennis Banda

In this episode of Diary 101, Akakandelwa sits down with Dennis Banda — Zambian game producer, & writer, — to explore the world of gaming, nerd culture, and what it means to build an industry from scratch in Zambia. Dennis traces his journey from studying architecture in Australia to working as a school secretary upon returning home, and how that unexpected detour led him to help create Zambia's nerd culture community through organisations like Nerd Otaku and Lusaka Comic-Con. He opens up about the real challenges of game development in Zambia — from load shedding and skills shortages to securing corporate sponsorship — while making a compelling case for why gaming is far more than entertainment. From tangential learning and social skills development to corporate team building and Africa's untapped potential in the global gaming market, Dennis paints a picture of an industry on the edge of something big. He also shares his thoughts on AI's growing impact on game creation, the power of audacity in networking, and why young African game developers hold a uniquely valuable perspective the world hasn't fully discovered yet.