In an inspiring story of growth and dedication, BUI is proud to announce that Samson Barasa Wanjala, a Technical Cloud Consultant, has been named a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP). This prestigious accolade recognizes Wanjala not just for his technical expertise in Azure, but also for his significant contributions to the technology community in Africa. It's a milestone that showcases both individual achievement and the power of mentorship in the technology sector.
He recalls, “I received priceless advice from a man I deeply admire.” This encouragement steered him toward pursuing an IT degree at Jomo Kenyatta University, where he balanced academics with hands-on skill development—essentially adopting a 40/60 mindset between theory and practice. This balance laid the groundwork for the deep knowledge he would later acquire in Microsoft technologies, especially Azure and Microsoft 365.
But Wanjala didn’t stop there. He joined the Young CISO Network, where he was able to engage with cybersecurity specialists—both aspiring and experienced—thus expanding his network and knowledge base. “Having a mentor at a critical time in my life was a blessing,” he reflected. Through his leadership in these initiatives, Wanjala has been instrumental in fostering a supportive environment where learning and sharing thrive.
Being recognized as an MVP is no small feat. Candidates face a rigorous selection process, evaluated on technical skills, community leadership, and problem-solving abilities. With roughly 3,000 active Microsoft MVPs globally, Wanjala’s achievement places him among the elite in the tech community.
BUI’s Global Human Resources Manager, Racquell Jones, emphasizes the significance of Wanjala's achievement, stating that it inspires all team members. "He's shown how dedication and a genuine passion for knowledge-sharing can lead to international recognition,” she adds. This ethos has permeated through BUI and aligned with its mission to foster excellence and collaboration in the tech industry.
For many aspiring tech professionals, Wanjala's journey offers a roadmap of dedication, learning, and the power of community support—a lesson that will undoubtedly influence the future leaders of the IT landscape.
As technology continues to evolve, so too will the opportunities for innovation and growth. And thanks to individuals like Wanjala, the paths to success in the tech world will continue to be illuminated for those who follow.
Source: ITWeb BUI applauds Samson Barasa Wanjala on Microsoft MVP achievement
A Journey from Uncertainty to Excellence
Although Wanjala's path may seem straightforward now, it wasn't always clear that he would make technology his career. Growing up in Kenya, he was initially captivated by Chemistry and basketball during his time at St Mary’s Boys High School. However, like many young individuals, Wanjala was searching for his true calling. A pivotal mentorship from a family friend whose passion for technology ignited Wanjala's interest in the IT sector was a game-changer.He recalls, “I received priceless advice from a man I deeply admire.” This encouragement steered him toward pursuing an IT degree at Jomo Kenyatta University, where he balanced academics with hands-on skill development—essentially adopting a 40/60 mindset between theory and practice. This balance laid the groundwork for the deep knowledge he would later acquire in Microsoft technologies, especially Azure and Microsoft 365.
Building Community and Skills
Ambitious and determined, Wanjala didn't just focus on personal success; he aimed to uplift those around him. While still pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Telecommunication and Information Engineering, he co-founded the Resource Cloud Academy, a platform designed for IT students to collaborate and learn together before graduation. This vibrant community has now grown to include seasoned professionals alongside newcomers, effectively becoming a haven for cloud enthusiasts.But Wanjala didn’t stop there. He joined the Young CISO Network, where he was able to engage with cybersecurity specialists—both aspiring and experienced—thus expanding his network and knowledge base. “Having a mentor at a critical time in my life was a blessing,” he reflected. Through his leadership in these initiatives, Wanjala has been instrumental in fostering a supportive environment where learning and sharing thrive.
The Road to Microsoft MVP
Wanjala's hard work did not go unnoticed. After a tenure in one of Nairobi's largest ICT consultancies, he joined BUI, swiftly moving from Technical Presales Consultant to Technical Cloud Consultant in under a year. His broad IT proficiency, coupled with his mentorship philosophy and community engagement, led to a nomination for the Microsoft MVP program.Being recognized as an MVP is no small feat. Candidates face a rigorous selection process, evaluated on technical skills, community leadership, and problem-solving abilities. With roughly 3,000 active Microsoft MVPs globally, Wanjala’s achievement places him among the elite in the tech community.
A Ripple Effect of Inspiration
As Wanjala shares his journey proudly, it’s clear that his MVP status is both a personal accolade and a community victory. “I’m prouder to be acknowledged for my commitment to helping others,” he notes. His story resonates with many, reminding us all of the importance of guidance, perseverance, and the impact of community.BUI’s Global Human Resources Manager, Racquell Jones, emphasizes the significance of Wanjala's achievement, stating that it inspires all team members. "He's shown how dedication and a genuine passion for knowledge-sharing can lead to international recognition,” she adds. This ethos has permeated through BUI and aligned with its mission to foster excellence and collaboration in the tech industry.
Conclusion: A Future Full of Possibilities
Samson Barasa Wanjala's recognition as a Microsoft MVP not only highlights his personal achievements but also underscores the critical role of mentorship and community engagement in the tech industry. As he continues to lead initiatives like the Azure Kenya User Group and empower the next generation of cloud professionals, one can only wonder: what's next for this trailblazer?For many aspiring tech professionals, Wanjala's journey offers a roadmap of dedication, learning, and the power of community support—a lesson that will undoubtedly influence the future leaders of the IT landscape.
As technology continues to evolve, so too will the opportunities for innovation and growth. And thanks to individuals like Wanjala, the paths to success in the tech world will continue to be illuminated for those who follow.
Source: ITWeb BUI applauds Samson Barasa Wanjala on Microsoft MVP achievement
