Joseph Omondi

Why do you work at Nova Pioneer? What keeps you here?

I am at Nova Pioneer for lots of reasons but most importantly because I get satisfaction in my job. The environment is deliberately set to push both learners and staff out of their comfort zones. That feeling one has after achieving something they would ordinarily strike out as impossible is just amazing. The fact that this feeling is always guaranteed keeps me energised and psyched up for the next challenge that comes my way.

What inspires you most about your work at Nova Pioneer?

My greatest inspiration is the Nova Pioneer promise: to raise leaders and innovators who will shape the African century. It is very inspiring to have the knowledge and conviction that I am part of the winning team. I can’t wait for that moment when we start flaunting the output of our hard work and determination when our students have graduated and are out there in the world as trailblazers.

In what ways have you grown since joining Nova Pioneer?

I joined the organisation as an Apprentice teacher with an eagerness to grow. My journey has been full of support from all quarters – from the feedback sessions with my manager to observations of my teaching to the professional development sessions provided by Nova Pioneer.

I have seen a lot of growth in my journey at Nova Pioneer. I could go on and on about how much I have grown as a professional and in my instructional skills but in all these, I appreciate so much how I have grown as a person. My interactions with my students have taught me the greatest lessons of humility, kindness and patience. The ability to engage people in their differences and being able to listen, understand and explain the “why” is one of the key traits I have been able to develop.

Growth being a journey, I still feel like there is always something new to learn everyday and I feel privileged to be in an organisation that offers opportunities and support for my growth aspirations.

Share a story of one of your most memorable moments at Nova Pioneer.

“Teacher, thank you for the lesson!” These words from my students after a lesson make my heart melt every time I hear it. Growing up, I rarely woke up in the morning with enthusiasm to go to school like our students do. This connection with my students serves me with a reminder of the impact we make by deliberately choosing to walk this difficult path of teaching and learning.