If I told you that people are a lot nicer in real life than we are online, would you believe me? I hope you do, because I witnessed it firsthand during the first-ever OnTheTable.Africa End Year Tech Hangout – Nairobi.
The energy in the room was electric. Attendees lingered long after the event officially ended, connecting over food and drinks, diving deep into conversations, and exchanging ideas. They didn’t just want more time; they wanted more activities, more moments to bond and collaborate.
This experience reinforced an important truth: We can learn the art of interaction. It begins with stepping out of our comfort zones, being open and vulnerable, and embracing friendliness. Building meaningful connections starts with showing up—and On The Table is here to help us do just that.
Why Community Matters
At its core, a community is where healing begins and transformation takes root. It’s a space that nourishes us, where we feel seen, heard, and valued. For us at OnTheTable.Africa, community is about coming together to share stories, laugh over successes and failures, and forge a collective sense of purpose.
Communities like these don’t just foster connection; they ignite resilience. They give us the courage to navigate transitions in our lives—because, let’s face it, we’re all in some kind of transition.
Navigating Life’s Transitions
Life is transactional. What we do, say, and how we relate to others shapes our relationships and opportunities. Each of us has a “transition superpower” that makes us excel in certain phases, and a “transition kryptonite” that challenges us in others.
- Some of us thrive in the messy middle.
- Others excel at making lists and planning steps forward.
The key is to start with your strengths. Lean into what you’re good at to gain confidence and then build from there.
In a community like On The Table, you get the chance to try something new. You interact with others who encourage you to shed unhelpful mindsets, routines, or habits. Shedding makes room for what comes next: acts of creativity and reinvention.
Why Connections Matter
The most profound part of being in a community is the wisdom you gain from others. Transitions in life can feel isolating, but they don’t have to be. Research shows that strangers are often the least judgmental and most reciprocal. When you share your story, they see themselves in you—and this connection can be transformative.
According to Mark Bailes, Director – Technical Product Management, VNS Health – Making new connections through a like-minded community gives you the chance to rewrite your life story. Every life transition is an opportunity to revisit, rethink, and retell your narrative. It’s a chance to add a new chapter—one filled with growth, resilience, and hope.
Making Professional Connections in 2025
In today’s competitive world, building a professional network is no longer optional. It’s a skill that can set you apart, whether you’re seeking a job, trying to excel in your current role, or exploring new industries. Networking opens doors to opportunities you didn’t even know existed.
Why network?
- Statistically, networking improves your chances of getting hired.
- Connecting with peers in the same industry boosts your performance.
- Building bridges outside your industry expands your horizons.
The Networking Cheat Sheet
Want to master the art of networking? Here’s a quick guide:
- Be genuine and authentic. Introduce yourself with sincerity.
- Be transparent. Share what you’re looking to gain from the connection.
- Acknowledge their value. Explain why you approached them specifically.
- Offer mutual benefit. Show what they could gain from the connection.
- Make it easy. Be flexible and approachable in your ask.
On The Table: Building Africa’s Tech Community
At OnTheTable.Africa, we’re more than just a network—we’re a movement. We’re creating spaces for Africa’s tech professionals to connect, collaborate, and grow. Whether you’re a seasoned product leader or a budding innovator, our goal is to provide a platform where your ideas can flourish, and your potential can be realized.
Building a community isn’t just about networking; it’s about creating spaces where people feel they belong. It’s about resistance through connection, growth through shared stories, and hope through collaboration.
So, I’ll leave you with this:
- Are you ready to step out of your comfort zone?
- To embrace vulnerability and build meaningful connections?
- To be part of a community that helps you rewrite your story?
Let’s sit On The Table together—and make 2025 the year of transformative connections.
