Diary 101 Podcast

Stop Applying, Start Positioning With Sandy Simagwali

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Sandy Simagwali, HR professional and founder of Graft AI, to explore how young people can better position themselves for opportunities. Sandy shares his journey into career development and breaks down common CV mistakes, the value of volunteering, and how to use AI effectively in job applications. The conversation also highlights the importance of networking and communicating value beyond just submitting applications. At its core, this episode is a reminder that it’s not just about being qualified — it’s about being seen.

A Little Bit of Everything With Akakandelwa Kandepwe

In this special 100th episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe pauses to reflect on the journey — the growth, the lessons, and the person she’s becoming along the way. Through her newsletter A Little Bit of Everything, she shares five meaningful touchpoints: a reminder on commitment, reflections from The Art of Spending Money, thoughts on AI and the future of work, simple productivity tools like Calendly, and opportunities for women in tech in Zambia. But beyond the structure, this episode is deeply personal — a moment of honesty about navigating change, redefining relationships, and learning to give herself grace in a challenging season. It’s a heartfelt reminder that growth isn’t always loud, but it’s always happening — and sometimes, the most important thing is choosing to keep going.

Building Africa's AI future With Pendo Manjele

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Pendo, Data Specialist at Sanako and co-founder of Ubuntu AI, to explore the future of artificial intelligence in Zambia and across Africa. Pendo shares her journey from software engineering to data science, the realities women face in STEM, and why resilience and community matter in tech. The conversation dives into Zambia’s current position as a consumer rather than developer of AI technologies, the urgent need for infrastructure, curriculum reform, and research investment, and the importance of homegrown innovation and data sovereignty. Together, they unpack how AI can improve healthcare and education, why Africa must shape its own technological destiny, and what it will take to move from passive adoption to active development in the AI era. Follow Diary 101Podcast Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/diary-101-podcast/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/diary-101-podcast/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1D694YUdYX/?mibextid=wwXIfr [https://www.facebook.com/share/1D694YUdYX/?mibextid=wwXIfr] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diary_101_podcast?igsh=MTdkd2VoZXd1d3Bkcw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr [https://www.instagram.com/diary_101_podcast?igsh=MTdkd2VoZXd1d3Bkcw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr]

Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Beliya Bukuru, digital strategist, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Yellow Ray, to explore a decade-long journey of building purpose-driven businesses and communities. Beliya shares her path from social media intern to agency founder, the power of faith-led entrepreneurship, and why self-awareness is critical when choosing between corporate life and entrepreneurship. The conversation dives into the value of business partnerships, Yellow Ray’s strategic expansion through global online courses, and the heart behind Bloomers Community—supporting women through practical discipleship, identity, and healing. Together, they reflect on generational transitions, leadership, rest, and building with intention in every season of life.

Breaking Barriers with Dr. Dora Siliya

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Dr. Dora Siliya, former Cabinet Minister, lawyer, and author, to discuss her journey in public service and leadership. Dr. Siliya reflects on breaking barriers as a young woman in Zambian politics and diplomacy, sharing lessons on preparation, confidence, and the discipline required to succeed in demanding leadership roles. The conversation explores women’s empowerment, mentorship, and the importance of telling one’s own story, while also examining generational shifts affecting young professionals today, including changing work ethics, technology’s influence, and the pressures facing Gen Z. Dr. Siliya encourages young people to pursue their ambitions with courage, invest in strong work ethics, and build supportive communities that help them navigate both professional and personal challenges. Follow Diary 101Podcast Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/diary-101-podcast/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/diary-101-podcast/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1D694YUdYX/?mibextid=wwXIfr [https://www.facebook.com/share/1D694YUdYX/?mibextid=wwXIfr] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diary_101_podcast?igsh=MTdkd2VoZXd1d3Bkcw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr [https://www.instagram.com/diary_101_podcast?igsh=MTdkd2VoZXd1d3Bkcw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr] Follow Dr Dora Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ByqvC9LYX/ [https://www.facebook.com/share/1ByqvC9LYX/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-dora-siliya-56a96a227?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-dora-siliya-56a96a227?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios]