Why is there a Gap between Expats and Kenyans in the social and work space? What consequences does this have for our work and collaboration? What can we do to change this?

In this episode, I explore these questions with Vandana Thottoli. Vandana is an Indian who has lived in Kenya for 7 years, forming close friendships with both Expats and Kenyans and in so doing straddling the gap between them. From an Indian background, she has some familiarity with Kenyan culture and systems and yet has found that it has taken her years to gain the trust and friendship of others to then learn how to navigate Kenyan culture with respect. We touch upon why expats should be cautious to complain, why misperceptions widen this gap and how friendships, initiated by expats acknowledging privilege and subsequent conversations, have an important role in the workplace - a responsibility of companies.

Share any thoughts you may have on social media (Insta: thedevelopmentdilemma; Twitter: @dev_dilemma, email: thedevelopmentdilemma@gmail.com). Music credits: Juliani, 'Kama sa Sisi'

Instagram: thedevelopmentdilemma; Twitter: @dev_dilemma; Music credits: Juliani, 'Kama sa Sisi'