The Graduation Nobody Prepares You For

The Graduation Nobody Prepares You For

In this solo episode of Diary 101, Akakandelwa gets honest about one of the most under-discussed transitions in young adulthood — life after graduation. Drawing from her own experience of completing an accounting degree, missing her graduation, struggling to find footing in the job market, and eventually choosing to step back and reflect rather than chase traditional employment, she unpacks the real emotional and financial weight that comes with leaving university. From nearly failing her finals while working part-time, to feeling isolated watching friends climb the corporate ladder, to discovering her path in operations and podcasting, Akakandelwa walks listeners through the messy middle that social media never shows. She also offers practical advice for graduates on building employability skills beyond their degree — through volunteering, networking, finding mentors, and seeking community — reminding listeners that feeling lost after graduation is not a sign of failure, but a normal and necessary part of figuring out who you are.

The Dinner That Changed Everything With Bupe M’Paruri

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Bupe, a finance and investment professional, for a conversation about education, ambition, and navigating growth in unfamiliar spaces. Bupe reflects on how attending Trident College and later studying at the University of Cape Town shaped her perspective on learning, exposure, and discipline beyond academics. Together, they unpack the realities of transitioning between education systems, building a career in finance and private equity, and learning to create opportunities through internships, volunteering, and intentional networking. Akakandelwa also reflects on her own journey with burnout, transitions, and balancing ambition with rest, while Bupe shares the importance of managing energy, staying curious, and allowing your work to speak for itself. At its core, this episode is about becoming through exposure — a reminder that growth often begins when you step outside what is familiar.

The Discipline of Becoming with Solomon Valor Mulanda

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Solomon Valor Mulanda — nuclear power engineer, future legal counsel, public speaker, and co-founder of Valas Training Institute — for a conversation about communication, identity, and the discipline of becoming. Solomon reflects on his journey from engineering into law and communication training, sharing how he learned that technical skill alone is never enough if you cannot communicate ideas effectively. Together, they unpack the realities young people face today — from struggling with identity and chasing trends to entering leadership spaces before truly understanding themselves. Akakandelwa reflects on her own journey of becoming more intentional with access, relationships, and the environments she allows herself into, while Solomon emphasizes the importance of reducing the time between having an idea and taking action. At its core, this episode is a reminder that growth is not just about opportunities or titles — it’s about learning who you are, communicating it clearly, and having the courage to move when the moment comes.

Changing the Narrative With Ireen Chikatula

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Irene Chikatula, social justice advocate and feminist leader, to explore her work empowering women and girls in rural Zambia. They discuss the realities of leadership in underserved communities, the misconceptions around feminism, and her decision to run for council chairperson. At its core, this episode is a reminder that real change requires courage, conviction, and a willingness to step into spaces that need you.

Know Better, Lead Better with Brandon Siagumpa

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Brandon Gift Siagumpa, entrepreneur and educator, to explore leadership, education, and self-awareness. Brandon shares insights on Zambia’s evolving education system, the opportunities within the new curriculum, and the challenges young leaders face — especially emotional burnout and understanding their own character. At its core, this episode is a reminder that it’s not just about opportunities — it’s about knowing yourself and how to navigate them.