Denis Ntara: The CEO Who Lives a Life Without a Destination

What does it mean to live a life without a destination? Is it a pursuit of freedom, a deliberate choice to embrace the journey, or merely a confession of uncertainty? For Denis Ntara, the CEO of Saraya Kenya, this idea is woven into the very fabric of his existence. His career journey has been anything but traditional, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned from talking to him, it’s that the path we choose can define us in ways we often don’t realize.

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A Unique Path to Success

Ntara’s story is a fascinating blend of ambition, cultural exploration, and personal growth. His expedition began far from the shores of Kenya, as he made his way to Japan at the tender age of 19, a curious student with dreams and aspirations. It’s difficult to imagine how different life must have been for him there, but I can’t help but think about the challenges he faced. Language barriers, cultural shocks, and the realization of being an outsider in a foreign land are just a few hurdles he encountered.

During our conversation, he shared how life in Japan wasn’t just a phase; it was a transformative experience that shaped his character. Just imagine spending 14 years in a country deeply embedded in tradition and modernity, where meticulous planning and process dominate the ethos.

Finding Purpose in Return

After years of building a life and a career in Japan, something significant stirred within him—a calling to return home. The decision came from the realization that Africa had untapped potential waiting to be harnessed. Ntara reflected on his travels across West Africa as a football scout in 2017, which opened his eyes to the possibilities that lay within his homeland.

“I came back because I realized that there is way more potential for growth in Africa than in Japan,” he explained. While Japan had reached a certain level of development, Africa represented opportunities to innovate, create, and grow. This vision fueled his desire to return, embracing the idea that he could contribute to his country’s burgeoning landscape.

The Cultural Dichotomy

As someone who has immersed himself in the cultures of both Japan and Kenya, I was intrigued by how these contrasting backgrounds influenced his approach to leadership and business. “I started with the false belief that the Japanese way of doing things is the best, efficient, and only way,” he confessed. Over time, he developed an appreciation for both cultures and the strengths each brings to the table.

The meticulousness of the Japanese, he noted, combines with the creativity and adaptability that Kenyans exhibit. This balance, he believes, is what can create a thriving and innovative environment at Saraya Kenya. “Combine the two cultures and you get Saraya,” he chuckled, clearly proud of the unique merger his experiences have created.

Lessons from the Land of the Rising Sun

One of the most striking attributes of Japanese culture that influenced Ntara is the emphasis on planning and systems. “I became more meticulous and systematic in my thinking and actions,” he remarked. This discipline stands in contrast to the more laid-back, adaptive nature often attributed to Kenyans.

Even though he didn’t adopt the extreme planning style of his Japanese counterparts, he recognized the importance of having a structured approach. “I may not necessarily plan to the Japanese level, but now I plan properly, ahead of time,” he stated. This shift not only changed his personal life but also shaped the way he leads and manages his team at Saraya.

Embracing Imperfection in Leadership

The world of leadership often comes with pressures and expectations, and for Ntara, this is no exception. In his view, the hallmark of effective leadership is the ability to let others learn and grow. He pointed out that he values a non-micromanagement style, which allows individuals to explore and make mistakes without the looming fear of reprimand.

“My job is to share the vision; how they interpret the vision is different, but the results are the same,” he explained. This philosophy promotes an environment of creativity and innovation, where employees feel empowered to contribute their unique ideas.

The Balance Between Work and Family

As we discussed his leadership, the conversation shifted to a more personal topic—fatherhood. With a four-year-old son, Ntara shared his commitment to being intentional about his role as a father. “I decided to be more intentional in terms of making decisions, knowing they also affect someone else’s life,” he remarked.

This commitment highlights a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of personal and professional life. The weight of leadership doesn’t just rest on the leader’s shoulders; it reverberates through their families and communities.

Community as a Pillar of Resilience

Reflecting on his time in Japan, Ntara recalled the sense of community that played a crucial role in his adjustment. He wasn’t alone in his daunting journey. Two fellow Kenyans became his makeshift family, allowing him to connect with home while navigating the complexities of a new environment. This bond provided not just emotional support, but also a cultural anchor that sustained him through the years.

“We survived through that community and our communication back home,” he reminisced. This sense of belonging, despite being miles away, helped shape his identity and understanding of home.

On Influences and Inspirations

Throughout our discussion, it became clear how pivotal family has been in shaping his perspective. His mother, a retired teacher, serves as a foundation of inspiration. He described her as an incredible businessperson with an innate ability to make smart decisions despite limited resources. “With the little she has, she has done much,” he said, pride radiating from his words.

Her lessons in financial discipline have left a lasting impact. “For you to be financially free, you have to be financially disciplined,” he emphasized, quoting her wisdom. This principle has guided him through his own financial journey, shaping his understanding of wealth and investment.

Articulating Human Nature

When discussing literature, Ntara referenced Leo Tolstoy’s “War and Peace” as a book that profoundly impacted him. His appreciation for the way Tolstoy captures human nature resonated deeply with me. “I don’t think there is any author who can describe human nature as well as he can,” he expressed passionately.

Tolstoy’s ability to dissect the complexities of the human experience struck a chord with him, providing insights that transcended cultures and time. This literary influence has inevitably seeped into his leadership style—understanding the people he leads and the motivations that drive them.

The Weight of Expectations

As a leader, especially one who traverses two worlds, Ntara feels the weight of expectations. He candidly shared that he sometimes grapples with feelings of inadequacy, especially when others look up to him for guidance. “There is always a decision you have to make every time,” he noted, acknowledging the pressure that comes with leadership.

Balancing these demands while striving to be a better father adds another layer of complexity to his life. It’s this very struggle that’s led him to learn patience—understanding that everyone has their own growth path, and he’s there to facilitate rather than control.

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A Daily Journey of Growth

Living in two cultures has sparked a constant evolution in how Ntara perceives himself and others. “I am learning how I perceive people and how to relate to different people,” he confessed, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence in his daily interactions.

His desire to improve extends beyond professional realms; he aims to integrate these lessons into his family life, nurturing a budding curiosity in his young son. “I want him to have the same knowledge I had at 30 at 18,” he expressed, highlighting the generational shift in knowledge transfer he aims to achieve.

Resilience and Reflection

Engaging with Denis Ntara is a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability. His journey embodies the essence of living without a destination. It’s not about aimless wandering; rather, it’s about embracing opportunities and confronting unforeseen challenges along the way.

Through our conversation, I realized that life isn’t necessarily about reaching a final destination. Instead, it’s about the lessons learned, the experiences shared, and the people met along the journey. In a world that often emphasizes outcomes and achievements, Ntara’s story is a refreshing reminder to appreciate the path we tread, no matter where it leads.

With each chapter of his life—from the streets of Takasaki to the vibrant landscapes of Kenya—he shows us that living without a destination can indeed lead to unimaginable growth and enrichment. As I wrap up this reflection, I can’t help but wonder what future adventures are in store for him and how he will continue to inspire those around him. The beauty of his journey lies not in the destination, but in the richness of the experience itself.

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in my opinion, in my experience, What I’ve been through