Miriam Mwende

When Google made the news in the early 2000s for its &ldquo;googly&rdquo; office plans, it seemed unconventional and futuristic.

Since then, most employers have embraced the art of creating office spaces employees actually enjoy. For example, instead of just a desk, chair and assigned storage unit, modern offices are designed to include ergonomic seating, height adjustable tables and lounges.

The shift is in service of <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/business/domestic/how-smes-in-kenya-can-compete-with-corporates-for-top-talent-2025093014260711894">employee wellness in the workplace</a>. An employer going beyond the paycheck to prioritise well-being at work, which appeals to top talent.

<h2>Employee wellness as a recruitment strategy</h2>

Workplace wellness encompasses various aspects, from comfortable and functional spaces to programs promoting work-life balance.&nbsp;

They are designed to address the physical, mental, and emotional needs of employees.

Toxic work cultures can be the biggest deterrent for job seekers, therefore, employers seeking to position themselves as an employer of choice must put wellness at the forefront.

This is particularly true in Kenya's growing tech and innovation sectors, where the battle for skilled professionals is fierce.

TAKE THE COURSE: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.brightermonday.co.ke/learning/courses/752?utm_campaign=Learning+Feeds&amp;utm_medium=Referral&amp;utm_source=Pulse&amp;utm_term=cde-rss-learning-feed-for-pulse-kenya-3052">Pulse Soft Skills Zoom Training Kenya (October 17th, 3:00 p.m.)</a>

Highlighting positive company culture that centres on employee wellness can help an employer to attract and retain talent without having to bank on offering competitive compensation.

<h3>1. Financial wellness beyond the payroll</h3>

Financial wellness has emerged as a key component of comprehensive wellness programs.&nbsp;

In a country where economic pressures can significantly impact worker productivity and retention, Kenyan businesses are offering financial education workshops, retirement planning assistance, and even debt management support.&nbsp;

These initiatives not only help employees feel more secure in their financial futures but also demonstrate a company's commitment to their long-term well-being.

<h3>2. Promoting physical &amp; mental wellness in the workplace</h3>

Physical wellness remains a cornerstone of employee wellness programs, with many Kenyan companies offering fitness classes, health screenings, and ergonomic workspaces.&nbsp;

However, the focus has expanded to include mental health support, recognising the impact of stress and burnout on employee performance and satisfaction.&nbsp;

Companies are now providing access to counseling services, mindfulness workshops, and <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/business/5-essential-soft-skills-for-managing-workplace-conflict-2025090310023406075">stress management tools to help employees maintain their mental well-being</a>.

<h3>3. Flexible work schedules to promote work-life balance</h3>

The implementation of these wellness programs requires careful consideration and ongoing evaluation.

As the workforce in Kenya becomes increasingly diverse and multigenerational, companies are finding that a one-size-fits-all approach to wellness no longer suffices.&nbsp;

Instead, they are adopting more flexible and personalised programs that cater to individual needs and preferences, especially as hybrid and remote working arrangements gain popularity.

As Kenya continues to position itself as a hub for innovation and growth in East Africa, the emphasis on employee wellness as a recruitment and retention strategy is likely to intensify.&nbsp;

Companies that invest in comprehensive wellness programs today are not just improving the lives of their employees; they are setting themselves up for long-term success in an increasingly competitive business landscape.

#FeatureByTakeControl

Man with braided hair leaning over desk while talking on the phone [Image credit: RDNE]

#FeatureByTakeControl

Why employee wellness is now a recruitment strategy in Kenya

No doubt Blankets &amp; Wine is Kenya's most popular music festival. Not only for the live experience but also for the "little" things - security, inclusivity, fashion, and Kenyan music.

Muthoni Drummer Queen and the team at GoodTimes Africa have nurtured the festival through various phases, including a hiatus, arriving at a product that this year <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.britishcouncil.co.ke/uk-kenya-season-2025">debuted in Bradford, the 2025 UK city of culture</a>.

“Blankets &amp; Wine has always been intentional about creating space for artists who are not afraid to innovate, blending ancestral roots with modern expression. "That is the true spirit of our festival – a bold, fearless, and authentic celebration of African creativity,” said Creative Director, Muthoni-Drummer Queen-Ndonga (MDQ).

Sunday's show also saw significant debuts of artists who got their big breaks through viral moments on digital platforms - We Are Nubia, Zaituni, Toxic Lyricali, and Chimano from Sauti Sol.

While the headlining star was Afrobeats, Grammy Winner Tems and she delivered an elegant set; a special treat for the edition was Ugandan artisst and producer Joshua Baraka, who unexpectedly became the live stage closer.

<h3>How Joshua Baraka changed the tide at Blankets &amp; Wine September edition</h3>

In a last-minute change to the performances' schedule, Baraka gave up his slot to Tems and for a long while the crowd was unsure he would come out.

Such instances, especially for festival-goers in Nairobi, tend to cause whispers of a possible backstage tiff over something or other, so the crowd thinned right after Tems and during MDQ's vote of thanks.

But, we still waited. Thousands of us. Amid technical hitches at the beverage vending points, whose online pre-order system had also been down for a few hours as the event begun.

The 'Wrong Places' singer did not waste a beat, getting right into his top hits as Nairobi sang along.

Baraka then brought out Maya Amolo for 'Bend It' and the crowd could hardly contain themselves when Bien got on stage for 'NANA' and later Mr. Tee for 'DIGII IV'.

Joshua Baraka performs 'NANA' with Bien at Blankets & Wine on September 28, 2025

“Festivals like Blankets &amp; Wine give us consistent exposure and credibility as performers. "That’s what builds careers. Blankets &amp; Wine, is not just a festival but an honoured institution that will continue to professionalise and globalise East Africa’s music scene into the future,” said Joshua Baraka during an earlier interview, as he reflected on the thrill of performing on the Blankets &amp; Wine stage once again.

<h3>Tems' first performance in Nairobi</h3>

Tems' set, which began shortly after 9:00 p.m, balanced intimate vocal moments with high-energy crowd interactions, and a brief moment when her mic cut off.

She did not bring out any other artists, leaving one to wonder if it would have carried the crowd through some of the ballads that seemed unfamiliar. 'Love Me Jeje', however, was still a crowd favourite.

“I love you Nairobi! This is the most enthusiastic welcome I have received anywhere in Africa. Thank you for the love,” she said to her adoring fans.

Tems headlines Blankets & Wine on September 28, 2025

Another one of her firsts in Nairobi was the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/music/tems-leading-vibe-initiative-heads-to-kenya-2025081309363110428">inaugural session of her Leading Vibe Initiative held on Monday</a>.

Applications to join the initiative closed on August 30th and Monday saw presenter Amina Abdi Rabar, rapper Femi One, Kenyan songwriters Sheila Kahwai (Llumi), Maureen Nkatha, Dani Dana, and RED Alicia in attendance; along with Maya Amolo, Elsa Wameyo, Christine Muthaka, Xenia Manasseh, and Nikita Kering’.

We Are Nubia (Margaret Atieno and Gloria Munga) made their first appearance at Blankets &amp; Wine with a set that included 'DND', some new hits and throwback fan favourites.

Gloria Munga during We Are Nubia's debut performance at Blankets & Wine

A notable on-stage moment came when We Are Nubia shared the stage with Zaituni for 'DND' and an electric dance sequence. Zaituni had earlier delivered her signature melodic vocals in her Blankets &amp; Wine debut, despite less-than-ideal sound through the speakers.

Zaituni performing at Blankets & Wine on September 28, 2025

Toxic Lyrikali delivered one of the most arresting sets of the day, grounding the festival’s polished lineup with raw lyricism and street-sharp delivery that resonated deeply with fans.

His performance fused biting social commentary with crowd-friendly hooks, drawing chants and call-backs that quickly turned casual listeners into active participants.&nbsp;

Toxic Lyrical performs at Blankets & Wine on September 28, 2025

By the end of his set, it was clear that Lyrikali had not only introduced himself to the Blankets &amp; Wine faithful but had also <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/music/toxic-lyrikali-the-artists-taking-over-kenyan-rap-2025072406282001826">staked a claim as one of Kenya’s most compelling new rap voices to watch</a>.

Chimano's performance was also a highlight, mixing hits from his debut album 'Heavy Is The Crown' with classic Sauti Sol favourites that got the crowd moving.

Willis Chimano performs at Blankets & Wine on September 28, 2025

Flier carried the day with his new song 'Wazungu Wako Ulaya' while Billy Black followed with a more expansive, high-energy presence and his smooth vocals.

Flier performing at Blankets & Wine on September 28, 2025

Billy Black performing at Blankets & Wine on September 28, 2025

The September edition was a thrill of surprises, festival-goers can look forward to the next Blankets &amp; Wine, dubbed "The Kenyan Summer Edition", scheduled for December 2025.

Ugandan producer and musician Joshua Baraka performs at Blankets & Wine on September 28, 2025

What about Tems, you may ask. Well, Blankets & Wine September edition had a couple of surprises - some not pleasant - but the good ones made the inconveniences forgivable.

Long wait for Joshua Baraka peaks with Bien, Maya Amolo & Mr. Tee

The blue-collar workforce is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by advancements in technology and evolving labor dynamics.&nbsp;

The year 2025 will see significant changes in industries like manufacturing and logistics, as automation, artificial intelligence, and labor reforms reshape the landscape.&nbsp;

All this as hiring trends in the sector reveal that 69% of blue-collar hires are temporary, with limited conversion to permanent roles.

The average tenure remains short at 21 months, and companies increasingly rely on third-party vendors to manage costs and turnover.&nbsp;

LEARN: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.brightermonday.co.ke/learning/courses/726?utm_campaign=Learning+Feeds&amp;utm_medium=Referral&amp;utm_source=Pulse&amp;utm_term=cde-rss-learning-feed-for-pulse-kenya-3052">Soft Skills Zoom Training Kenya (October 3, 3:00 p.m.)</a>

Such developments are paving the way for a more resilient and empowered workforce.

<h3>1. Automation and the tech-enabled future</h3>

Technology advancements are part of the evolving dynamics of the blue-collar sector, as businesses adapt to meet the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/business/domestic/future-of-recruitment-how-ai-tech-are-changing-hiring-in-kenya-2025071715302329507">demands of a tech-enabled future</a>.

While the industry is dominated by manual jobs, more and more these roles are transforming through artificial intelligence (AI) systems with the advantage of self-regulation.

For example, AI-enabled warehousing is powering the world of online ordering processes and shipment tracking. Experts predict that AI could, in the near future, be integrated to support mechanised retrieval and loading of packages.

As AI continues to improve, the blue-collar industry is looking at a future where manufacturing and production processes will only require human oversight.

The improvements on self-driving cars, though nascent at the moment, will likely reduce trucking jobs that run the blue-collar economy.

Current demographic trends indicate variations in educational qualifications, experience levels, and age across the blue-collar workforce.&nbsp;

However, the demand for skilled labor continues to rise, even as the sector grapples with skill gaps and increasing productivity expectations. Business and HR leaders are also aiming to attract, engage, and retain skilled blue-collar talent

With technical qualifications, such as industrial training institutes (ITI) or diploma holders, earn noticeably higher wages than their non-skilled counterparts, highlighting a significant pay gap within the sector.

An emphasis on skilled labour for blue-collar jobs is a call for those in the field to pursue additional training to compete.

As the sector continues to evolve, addressing these challenges will be crucial for building a sustainable and inclusive workforce.

These changes present opportunities to improve worker support through fair compensation, targeted upskilling, and enhanced health and safety measures.&nbsp;

An AI and robot-enabled assembly line [Image Credit: Roboflow Universe]

Kenyan blue-collar jobs are changing in 2 major ways

“Sikudhani ingehappen especially after kuambiwa usanii haina something…” goes the millennial saying from Scar Mkadinali, in <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://youtu.be/7cyxJuhm-5c?feature=shared">Wakadinali’s ‘Singefanikiwa’</a>.

Pia mimi, ilikua kidogo nishalose hope. Sikudhani ningefanikiwa, in finding and exploring Nairobi’s intentional communities.

I wouldn’t fault you for not <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://adanabdi.com/">knowing Adan Abdi</a> either.&nbsp;

Soon after surviving the -vid we got comfortable being outside again, went to the elections - oops, discovered our streets, and now the commute past a mountain of garbage has us wondering about City Hall.

Hot And Fresh: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/music/hot-new-hits-kenyan-artists-this-week-2025092613310054581">Hot new hits by Kenyan artists this week</a>

Clumsiness, tutasamehe. If it’s crowd work, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://projecthandup.org/about/our-team/">Darren ‘The American’ Collins</a> is a good study in being an outsider finding their way in.

How far can one push a hot take on nationalism before it crosses into “Go Back To Somalia”?

Adan pia aliwahusisha <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.instagram.com/timothyngatia/">Timothy ‘The Teacher’ Ngatia</a>, Stan K. ‘Host With The Most’ Saleh na <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.instagram.com/ribia_ent/">John ‘The Advocate’ Ribia</a>.&nbsp;

Each had a shot at getting laughs from sisters in the company of their baby bro; medics and a med student set for graduation, Adan&rsquo;s long-time friends, fans of Adan Abdi Comedy who opened for Mammito and have been following him since, and me.

In case you need a gentle nudge toward Roby Collins at the Nairobi Laugh Bar tonight and <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://adanabdi.com/#">Adan’s second night at Hooya’s Kitchen &amp; Poetry</a>… and <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.instagram.com/standupcollective/">The Standup Collective</a> community.

<h3>Adan Abdi was listening to rap before taking the stage</h3>

And, in his observation, rappers get away with making awkward suggestions - in song. It&rsquo;s funny how these don&rsquo;t quite translate IRL.

Comedian Adan Abdi on stage at his June 2025 Eid comedy showcase "Go Back To Somalia"

In real life; his U.K. Visa application required far too many supporting recommendations, he&rsquo;s proud of the cut he chose for this show; he has considered takes on that incident with the flag and those ideas about vetting Kenyan Somalians for IDs and appreciates having his dad for a wingman.

<blockquote>I must insist on you attending his second night. Especially if you are in need of perspective on Somalian Kenyans. Sitawafunza kila kitu. Na vile Domani Munga alisema, “siezi show ndoto zangu bigi to a small mind”.</blockquote>

It&rsquo;s official, Adan Abdi Comedy is going on a U.K. tour.

<h2>Further exhortations to Nairobi’s intentional communities</h2>

<h3>Most Mondays with Drunken Lectures</h3>

While I’m still attempting discourse on nationalist ideas, the podium where solid arguments are thriving - <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://drunkenlectures.com/">Drunken Lectures</a>, under the stewardship of Keith Angana.

Specifically for the Nairobians who demand a little more from life than 30-second bits. Or the ones who are just happy to be here and can&rsquo;t help but radiate u-Nairobi wetu.

Context matters, a one-hour lecture over a beverage of your choice helps the cause.&nbsp;

Just this month: sikuskia vibaya at “The Stealing Art of Kenyan Music” by audio engineer <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.instagram.com/megamuia/">Megamuia</a>, a rousing “Uchungu Na Uhuru” at the Nairobi Street Kitchen, a prefatory lecture on data protection “Is Consent An Illusion” presented by <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.instagram.com/scramhalf/">Wakili Mutua Mutuku,</a> and a community-only lecture I hated to miss on “Feminism”.

<h3>The 16th year of Blankets &amp; Wine</h3>

It&rsquo;s a festival, yes. It&rsquo;s a community because, wale wanaskia FOMO.

Looking forward to Toxic Lyricali, Zaituni, and <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/music/we-are-nubia-kenyan-music-duo-interview-2025092505450790237">We Are Nubia who paid a visit to our studio earlier in the week</a>.

Why these acts? Testaments to a generation of social media communities that show up IRL. Kenyan talent that didn&rsquo;t wait 20 years to be seen.

And the festival’s 2025 theme, "Bringing Africa to Kenya and Taking Kenya to the World".

The team at Good Times Africa articulates it better as: “...a bold lineup led by TEMS, alongside Joshua Baraka, Chimano, Billy Black, We Are Nubia, Zaituni, and genre-defying DJs/Producers on the Onja Onja stage such as Akoth Jumadi, Ghedi, Paps, Bune, Hiribae, Santa, Coco Kahu and Mr Lu, this year’s edition captures the fearless, digital-first direction of Kenya’s music scene.”

As far as shameless plugs go; the very friendly, young, hardworking Kenyans at Pulse Africa are gearing up for the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/celebrities/pulse-africa-announces-5th-edition-of-pulse-influencer-awards-2025081314134607928">Fifth Edition of Pulse Influencer Awards</a>.

VOTE: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/influencer-awards">2025 Pulse Influencer Awards</a>

The aim is to recognise individuals who have leveraged digital platforms to distribute value, share ideas, and build influential communities online.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.instagram.com/pulselivemarketingke/">Pulse Live Marketing</a>, through the The Power Circle Summit, is also opening the doors to our community.

It&rsquo;s always much better to be in the room and awake when something big is about to happen.&nbsp;

DETAILS: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/business/domestic/finding-purpose-beyond-virality-why-influencers-need-the-power-circle-summit-2025091215183379988">Why influencers need The Power Circle summit</a>

Kenyan comedian Adan Abdi set for U.K. tour

As a journalist experiencing a short supply of muses, here are a few communities and a comedian offering some stimulating content for significant conversations and private thoughts. Take it all as a suggestion.

In Nairobi: Listening to ‘Singefanikiwa’, with Adan Abdi [Community Review]

A new entrant is causing waves in the African sports betting landscape, redefining the experience for young, tech-savvy punters.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://pepeta.com/sports">Pepeta</a>, a rising star in Kenya's betting scene, is carving out a niche by offering a unique blend of features designed to enhance the betting experience.

This innovative platform is changing the betting experience for Kenyan punters with its player-centric approach and exciting features.

<h3>Boosted odds as a winning advantage</h3>

One of the standout offerings from Pepeta is their boosted odds system.&nbsp;

This feature provides bettors with enhanced payouts on select matches and events, surpassing standard market rates.&nbsp;

Whether you're passionate about football, rugby, basketball, or tennis, Pepeta ensures you're getting the most value for your wager.

This feature allows savvy bettors to potentially secure higher payouts on selected events, spanning popular sports from football to basketball.

Pepeta Sportsbook: Kenya’s Home of Boosted Odds, Live Games & Free Withdrawals

<h3>How to leverage the live games feature</h3>

But Pepeta's appeal doesn't stop at boosted odds. The platform has tapped into the pulse of live betting, offering real-time wagering opportunities that sync with the ebb and flow of live matches.&nbsp;

Pepeta's live games feature is a game-changer, players can place bets as the game progresses, making every goal, try, or basket even more thrilling.&nbsp;

This feature is available for a wide range of events, from the globally popular English Premier League to local FKF matches.

Understanding the importance of a strong start, new users are welcomed with attractive sign-up bonuses, giving them an extra edge as they explore the platform.&nbsp;

These welcome offers are designed to maximise the potential of your first deposit, providing more opportunities to win from the start.

This means that when you win, you keep what you've earned without any hidden fees eating into your profits. It's a transparent approach that has quickly earned Pepeta trust within Kenya's betting community.

In a move that sets them apart from many competitors, Pepeta offers free withdrawals.

This feature transforms every goal, try, or basket into a potential winning moment, adding an extra layer of excitement to the viewing experience.

Diversity is key at Pepeta, with a wide range of sports and betting markets available. From football and rugby to basketball, tennis, and cricket, Kenyan punters have a multitude of options to back their favorite teams and athletes.

EXPLORE: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://pepeta.com/sports">Pepeta Sports Betting</a>

Recognising the importance of community in the digital age, Pepeta is actively building its online presence. To stay informed about the latest boosted odds, live games, and promotions, bettors can follow Pepeta on various social media platforms including <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://x.com/pepeta_bet?t=2EphCYoPok_TbvlW1vHpzw&amp;s=09">X (Twitter)</a>, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.facebook.com/pepetabet?mibextid=ZbWKwL">Facebook</a>, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.instagram.com/pepeta_ke/?igshid=NzZhOTFlYzFmZQ%3D%3D">Instagram</a>, and <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://t.me/pepetabet">Telegram</a>.

With its combination of boosted odds, live betting options, welcome bonuses, and free withdrawals, Pepeta is setting new standards in Kenya's online sports betting landscape.&nbsp;

The platform's user-friendly interface, coupled with its rewarding and reliable service, makes it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bettors looking to enhance their betting experience.

As the sports betting industry in Kenya continues to evolve, platforms like Pepeta are at the forefront, offering innovative solutions that cater to the needs and preferences of the modern bettor. By focusing on value, excitement, and user experience, Pepeta is not just participating in the market – it's actively shaping its future.

#FeatureByPepeta

#FeatureByPepeta

Before you place your next bet, here's how to get a bigger win

Kenya, as part of the global south, is among the countries experiencing an influx of the young in its workforce.

In startup ventures that are going global, climate change NGOs seeking to make impact now, and most of all the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/business/domestic/top-skills-employers-require-in-creative-industry-roles-how-to-get-them-2025082506570441660">development of unconventional careers in the digital world</a>, Kenya’s youngest workers are leading the charge.

They are also causing employers and older colleagues to shift their perspectives and understanding of how things should run.

LEARN: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.brightermonday.co.ke/learning/courses/724?utm_campaign=Learning+Feeds&amp;utm_medium=Referral&amp;utm_source=Pulse&amp;utm_term=cde-rss-learning-feed-for-pulse-kenya-3052">Pulse Soft Skills Zoom Training Kenya (Friday, 3:00 p.m.)</a>

<h3>How Gen Z prefer to be recruited for jobs</h3>

The usual job recruitment process involves announcing a vacancy, shortlisting qualified candidates, inviting them for interviews and the successful candidate gets contacted to accept or reject a job offer.

Employers are having to make adjustments to the process, accounting for the fact that Gen Z are tech savvy and prefer flexibility.

<ol><li>Employers must have a strong online presence because Gen Z recruits rely on company websites and social media platforms to find and verify job postings. They also check these to gauge company culture and values.</li><li>Virtual job interviews should also be accommodated for employers looking to work with Gen Z. Aside from the convenience of a virtual meeting, this generation of workers is seeking opportunities away from home, whether in a different city or country.</li><li>Hiring from referrals has taken shape within the Kenyan job market. Relying on recruiters and professional networks may very well be the number one way job seekers get hired. Younger professionals are more willing to pursue referred opportunities.</li><li>Young job seekers are using AI tools to make their job applications.</li></ol>

<h3>What employers are getting wrong while recruiting Gen Z</h3>

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/business/latest-international-business-news-and-headlines/popular-careers-among-kenyan-genz-and-countries-they-prefer-to-emigrate-to-for-work-2024072917171579539">According to a 2024 survey by Odipo Dev and Africa Uncensored</a>, the majority of Kenyan Gen Z prefer to be self-employed. The only other high-ranking pursuit is social media fame.&nbsp;

Office jobs come in as the fourth option for this generation, with the young workers preferring 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. schedules that come with job security.

With such data, it&rsquo;s clear that employers may need to revise some strict definitions of moonlighting and what it means to have other sources of income.

Employers also need to embrace the realities of having influencers on their payroll, acknowledging that they can be an asset for their brand.

Employers also need to explore hybrid or wholly remote models of work. The greatest benefit for Gen Z workers under these models is the added flexibility in mapping their career goals.

As the youngest entrants to the labour market, Gen Z are giving many employers an edge in tech adoption, leveraging the creative economy and remaining relevant for Kenya&rsquo;s bulging youth population.

Those offering opportunities to this generation must also adjust with their generation&rsquo;s definition of satisfying work.

An AI-generated image of person in a job interview

Recruiting Gen Z in Kenya: What employers need to know

Creativity and innovation are possibly the most misunderstood corporate buzzwords in use today.&nbsp;

So much that they&rsquo;ve been added to job titles, and required as part of certain job roles.

Confirming that they are essential soft skills that employers in many industries increasingly demand, not nice-to-have extras.

SIGN UP: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.brightermonday.co.ke/learning/courses/723?utm_campaign=Learning+Feeds&amp;utm_medium=Referral&amp;utm_source=Pulse&amp;utm_term=cde-rss-learning-feed-for-pulse-kenya-3052">Pulse Soft Skills Zoom Training Kenya (September 12th, 3:00 p.m.)</a>

<h2>What creativity and innovation mean to employers</h2>

To start with, when an employer mentions creativity, they ideally mean a mindset to come up with something new. For example, a new approach to doing things.

Creativity isn't just about artistic pursuits, it's about approaching problems from new angles and connecting disparate concepts.

Innovation normally comes after the creative process. It is the actualisation of creative ideas.

Or put a different way, translating new ideas into a product or service that generates value.

Together, these <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/business/domestic/hidden-job-market-how-to-find-jobs-before-theyre-advertised-2025072115405508125">skills enable workers to identify opportunities</a>, overcome obstacles, and drive growth.

<h2>How creativity, innovation help companies adapt</h2>

<h3>1. Staying competitive in a tech revolution</h3>

In an increasingly competitive global marketplace, businesses must constantly innovate to stay ahead.&nbsp;

Employees who can generate fresh ideas and approaches give their organisations a crucial edge. This applies across sectors, from tech startups to <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/business/7-ways-to-stay-relevant-in-a-fast-changing-job-market-in-education-industry-2025073117015175632">traditional industries undergoing digital transformation</a>.

Employers also recognise that creativity and innovation foster a more dynamic and engaging work environment.&nbsp;

Teams that encourage creative thinking tend to be more collaborative, adaptable, and resilient in the face of setbacks.&nbsp;

This contributes to higher job satisfaction and employee retention.

<h3>3. It’s a unique human ability</h3>

Furthermore, as artificial intelligence and machine learning become more prevalent, uniquely human traits like creativity will be increasingly prized.&nbsp;

While AI can process vast amounts of data and perform complex calculations, it cannot replicate the imaginative leaps and intuitive insights that creative humans

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/business/domestic/top-skills-employers-require-in-creative-industry-roles-how-to-get-them-2025082506570441660">Top skills employers require in creative industry roles, how to get them</a>

Developing these skills isn't just beneficial for employers, it's crucial for individual career growth as well.&nbsp;

Workers who can consistently generate innovative ideas and solutions are more likely to advance in their careers and remain relevant in a changing job landscape.

It's important to note that creativity and innovation don't exist in a vacuum. They work best when combined with other soft skills like critical thinking, communication, and collaboration.&nbsp;

The most valuable employees are those who can not only come up with great ideas but also effectively share them and work with others to bring them to fruition.

For job seekers and current employees alike, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/courses">cultivating these skills</a> should be a top priority.&nbsp;

A group of people engaging in a creative exercise using VR gear [Image Credit: Tima Miroshnichenko]

Why every employer seems to require creativity & innovation

East Africa is ready - has been ready - for its moment in the limelight. At least as far as dance and professional choreography is concerned.

Quincy Icon holds this to be true, still reeling from the success of her continental debut at the CHAN closing ceremony.

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOApspuCLJ4/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Quincy_icon (@quincy_icon)</a></div></blockquote>
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As a professional choreographer and founder of The Force KE dance crew, Quincy first got the opportunity to showcase at the official CHAN draw ceremony held at the KICC in January, and impressed organisers enough to get the closing ceremony show.

Quincy Icon was one of the choreographers behind Savara's, Eddy Kenzo's and Zuchu's performances at the CHAN closing ceremony on August 30th. Pulse Interview caught up with her after the historic event and she asserted that East Africa is ready to have world-class entertainment at sporting tournaments.

Miriam Mwende

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