Quasi-techie who loves art and apps

Agatha Gikunda

Head of Nokia ecosystem and applications (EDX) East Africa

Age: 36

Professional: Head of Ecosystem, Services and Applications for Nokia East Africa.

Previously was Head of Messaging Service for Middle East and Africa

She joined Nokia in 2003, in Vancouver Canada, and later moved to Nokia South Africa in 2006, and finally Nokia East Africa late 2007.
Was part of the team that created the second Nseries phone, the N91

Before joining Nokia, she worked at Motorola and TELUS in Canada

Education: She holds an Engineering degree, as well as an MBA, specialising in the Management of Technology, both from Canadian Universities.

If there is one thing Agatha Gikunda understands it is technology. Put her in a room full of techies and she is right at home.

Upon finishing school, she got an opportunity to travel to Canada to pursue a degree in engineering.

When Nokia opened an office in Kenya she came back home, via South Africa to head the Ecosystems, Service and Applications (EDX) in East Africa.

When we meet for the interview at Nokia offices she walked in carrying her Nokia N9, and a tablet. From the onset she said there were things she was not willing to talk about including the car she drives.

“I drive a car just like anyone else. What I drive, where I live, brands I wear don’t define me.”

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How long have you been with Nokia?

My whole life, practically, it’s like marriage (laughs).

So, are you married, other than to your job?

Yes I am and have three kids.

How do you juggle work and family life?

I think Nokia is a very good employer that allows me to have a balanced lifestyle.

My kids do wish I travel less, but as a rule I don’t travel on weekends so that I’m home with the children. My work even allows me to be home in time to do homework.

How would you describe yourself?

I am a shy introvert, who likes to listen and absorb stuff. But I would never sit back and agree to things that don’t make sense.

I can be opinionated and like my voice to be heard. I want to leave this world after making a difference. I am always looking for ways to do that.

Do you consider yourself a techie?

I guess a quasi-techie.