I hope to showcase my designs at the world’s fashion capitals

Vivienne Taa is a Cargo Manager at Kenya Airways. She opens up about her life, career and her dream of becoming a fashion designer. PHOTO | COURTESY

What you need to know:

  • I must be one of the most fortunate people because I don’t have typical days. Each day is different and comes with different goals and challenges.
  • The Proverbs 31 woman: I know the woman described in this chapter of the bible, does not necessarily describe the day-to-day life of a modern career and family woman and is in many instances considered ideal and unattainable. Nonetheless, I’m inspired by her strength and dignity.
  • As much as I’m an outdoors person, I still value my quiet time. Every once in a while, I take time off to read a good book.

Q: Who is Vivienne Taa?

I’m an ambitious, loyal, creative and adventurous young woman and a devoted Christian.

What does your job entail as a cargo manager?

I’m in charge of marketing within the cargo business, spanning 40 countries, 31 in Africa and 9 in Europe, Middle East, Asia and the Far-East.

What do love about your job?

It is exciting, challenging and dynamic because it’s unique and very niche.

Take us through a day in your life

I must be one of the most fortunate people because I don’t have typical days. Each day is different and comes with different goals and challenges.

I’m in the office by 7:30am where I create a to-do list, go through the news and media reports before proceeding to prepare for any scheduled meetings. I also have one-on-ones with teams in the various countries via Skype. My afternoons are reserved for touching base with the various stakeholders.

Saturdays are reserved for watching sports (mainly football and rugby) and practice for Sunday service – I’m part of the music team at my church.

I attend church on Sunday mornings and spend the afternoon visiting or hanging out with friends and family.

How has the journey been?

It’s been exciting, amazing and challenging. I joined the airline as part of the customer service team and rose through the ranks. I have learnt a lot along the way mainly on leadership, patience, tolerance.

Who is your role model?

The Proverbs 31 woman: I know the woman described in this chapter of the bible, does not necessarily describe the day-to-day life of a modern career and family woman and is in many instances considered ideal and unattainable. Nonetheless, I’m inspired by her strength and dignity, her dedication to her family, her determination, her ability to plan and prepare for the future. These are all qualities that I aspire to attain.

What career accomplishments are you most proud of?

I am proud  that during my tenure, Kenya Airways won the award for Best Cargo Airline in Africa for 3 straight years 2013, 2014 and 2015.

I am also proud of being part of the team that worked on the launch of the first freighters in the history of Kenya Airways. It was a historic and emotional moment for all of us

What did you study?

I studied Tourism Management at Moi University and later did marketing certification courses by Chartered Institute of Marketing.

What do you aspire?

Following my heart and pursuing my love for fashion by going back to school to study fashion design and actually developing my own self-titled fashion line; Vivienne Taa.

What motivates you?

The desire to succeed and be the best, despite barriers and challenges. I believe there is more to life than just waking up, going about your daily activities and going to bed.

Tell us about your social life?

Away from work, I’m a devoted Christian and quite the adventure seeker – I love the outdoors. My bucket list has climbing Mt Kilimanjaro, water rafting in Sagana, paragliding and skydiving.

I’m very passionate about sports and fashion. They have a special place in my heart. During weekends, I make time to watch and attend major sporting tournaments  – mainly soccer and rugby.

Your dream holiday destination?

 I’d love to visit Rio during the famous carnival and also look forward to visiting Israel to experience the history of Christianity.

Which car are you?

The Mercedes Benz E-Class because I’m authentic, bold, elegant and efficient. I couldn’t have said it better!

What are your future plans?

My desire is to one day showcase my designs at one of the world’s top four Fashion Week events in either London, Milan, Paris or New York.

How do you unwind?

As much as I’m an outdoors person, I still value my quiet time. Every once in a while, I take time off to read a good book. These moments of peace and quiet at home in pyjamas are priceless.