Man Hoping To Be General Manager Grateful To Hotelier Who Advised Him On Career Path, Offered Internship

• Bernard Mwangi, who began his career as a messenger at a law firm in 2008, is now aiming for the position of General Manager in the hotel industry
• This is all thanks to the invaluable guidance of Mohammed Hersi, a prominent figure in the hotel management sector
• The inspiring journey of Bernard Mwangi began over a decade ago when he was tasked with delivering documents to the office of Mohammed Hersi

Bernard Mwangi, a once aspiring messenger at a law firm in Mombasa, has risen through the ranks of the hotel industry to different levels and now aims to become a general manager.

Why did Bernard decide to join hotel industry?

His remarkable journey, shaped by the guidance of renowned hotelier Mohammed Hersi, began in 2008 when Bernard, a young messenger, delivered documents to Hersi's office.

Seizing the opportunity, as per a tweet posted by Hersi, Bernard asked for a few minutes of his time to discuss his dream of pursuing a career in hotel management.

Little did he know that this encounter would set the course for his future success.

Impressed by Bernard's determination and ambition, Hersi offered encouragement that resonated deeply with the young messenger.

He advised Bernard to pursue higher education and generously extended an internship opportunity to him.

"I encouraged him to go to college and assisted him in his internship. He got employed as a concierge, and by the time I left Sarova Whitesands, he was a Guest Relations Officer," he said.

Bernard and Hersi's encounter marks the beginning of new career

This momentous encounter marked the beginning of Bernard's transformation within the Sarova Hotels group.

Today, Bernard stands tall as the Front Office Manager at Sarova Imperial Kisumu, a remarkable achievement that underscores the power of mentorship and perseverance.

His ultimate goal is to become a General Manager, a dream ignited by Hersi's unwavering belief in his potential.

In a heartfelt letter to the Hersi, Bernard expressed his deep gratitude for the hotelier's transformative impact on his life and career.

He reflected on the wisdom of Hersi's counsel, which emphasised hard work, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence.

"Reflecting back to that pivotal encounter in 2008 at Sarova Whitesands, where I had the privilege of delivering documents to your office from Ndegwa Wamuti advocate as a messenger, I am reminded of the warm welcome you extended to me," wrote Bernard

Bernard worked in uncle's firm as a messenger.

"Your presence exuded confidence and professionalism, leaving an indelible mark on my aspirations. As I sat in your office, sipping a cup of tea and admiring the surroundings, a fervent desire to occupy that very seat began to take shape," he added.

Bernard acknowledged that his journey from messenger to manager was inspired by those guiding principles.

Bernard also shared with TUKO.co.ke the heartwarming story of how his uncle, who owned the law firm where he worked as a messenger, had offered to support his education.

They struck an agreement that allowed Bernard to work half-day, mornings until noon, and attend classes afterwards.

This opportunity enabled him to graduate with a Diploma in Business Management.

Following his encounter with Hersi, Bernard pursued a diploma in Hotel Management, setting his career trajectory in motion.

Bernard is grateful

Hersi's generosity in offering an internship at the hotel he previously worked for was a pivotal moment that opened doors for Bernard.

"From intern to porter and onward, the path has been both challenging and rewarding, much like the lessons you imparted. I owe my progress to your unwavering inspiration and belief in my potential," he said.

"As I find myself in the position I hold today, I can't help but reflect on how far I've come and the immense role you've played in my growth," he added.

The mentorship and guidance Hersi provided have shaped Bernard's career and ignited his determination to reach greater heights in the hotel industry.

Hilton Intercon never had time for Kenyan general managers

In a previous report, Hersi blamed the collapse of Hilton and Intercontinental hotels on the failure to hire Kenyan managers.

In a hard-hitting statement shared on his Facebook page on Saturday, April 30, Hersi claimed the two once-famous iconic facilities discriminated against locals and Africans in general.

"One thing many Kenyans may not know is that both Hilton & Intercont Nairobi never had time for Kenyan general managers, I dare say, African managers. The only "African" at Hilton Nairobi was Adam Musa, an Egyptian who is now deceased," he said.

"Across the road at Intercont was Roger Kacou, an Ivorian who may have held French or Belgian papers...I am guessing, but no Kenyan was found to be fit to run them, which is hard to forgive. I am honestly not shedding any tears for them; let me not pretend," he added.