Zainab Makena
Nairobi, Kenya
Summary
I am a detail-oriented professional with a diploma in International Relations and Diplomacy, keen to translate my academic knowledge into impactful contributions within the field of Business Development. My understanding of global markets, and experience in negotiation, stakeholder engagement, and cross-cultural communication equips me to build lasting relationships and drive successful business initiatives. With a solid foundation in strategic thinking and problem-solving, I am well-prepared to transition into a Business Development role. Eager to leverage my skills in research and analysis to uncover market trends, cultivate client partnerships, and contribute to sustainable business growth on a global scale.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Events Manager
Convene Events
Nairobi, Kenya
02.2020 - 06.2023
- Directed the execution of over 40 networking, corporate, and social events across Nairobi, delivering exceptional experiences for clients and over 5,000 attendees.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive event plans, managing budgets of up to KES 2 million, while securing premium venues and coordinating catering, decor, entertainment, and special guests.
- Negotiated and secured contracts with five key suppliers, reducing costs by 15% while maintaining high-quality service delivery.
- Analyzed event performance metrics, consistently exceeding established goals by at least 10%, while enhancing client satisfaction and repeat business.
Project Intern
Red Cross Society
Nairobi, Kenya
07.2023 - 11.2023
- Facilitated community engagement in humanitarian emergency activities, successfully ensuring adherence to company policies and standards across multiple initiatives.
- Oversaw disaster response and relief efforts for the Shaka Hola crisis in Magarini Sub-county, coordinating efforts to distribute food and medical supplies that impacted over 2,500 individuals.
- Acquired hands-on experience in a community-based project on Gender based violence (GBV), driving prevention and awareness campaigns that reached over 5000 individuals in vulnerable groups.
Education
Diploma in International Relations - International Relations
Technical University of Kenya
Nairobi, Kenya11-2023
Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) -
Moi Girls High School
Nairobi, Kenya11-2018
Skills
- Project Scheduling
- Data organization
- Customer Relations
- Client meetings
- Budget Management
- Emergency Response
- Project Management
- Deadline Management
Languages
English
Native/ Bilingual
Swahili
Native/ Bilingual
Certification
- First Aid Training
Affiliations
Travel
- Traveled extensively across East Africa, including Tanzania and Uganda, immersing myself in diverse cultures and enhancing my global perspective through firsthand experiences
- Summited Mt.Kilimanjaro, demonstrating resilience and determination while pushing my physical limits and achieving a personal fitness milestone.
Competitive Swimmer
- Member of local Nairobi swim club for 3 years, competing in over 10 regional and national competitions
- Achieved personal bests in the 100m backstroke and 100m freestyle, earning a bronze medal at the national championships in 2022
- Coached younger swimming team members, developing leadership and mentorship skills
Accomplishments
- Kenya National Swimming Gala (100m Freestyle) - Bronze
- Certificate of Merit in Computers for Schools of Kenya (CFSK)
- Certificate of Merit in Kenya Science and Engineering Fair (KSEF) - 1st Position in Agriculture
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Project Intern
Red Cross Society
07.2023 - 11.2023
Events Manager
Convene Events
02.2020 - 06.2023
Diploma in International Relations - International Relations
Technical University of Kenya
Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) -
Moi Girls High School
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