Across the Table with Amb. Maryben Akinyi Omollo - A Call for Compassion in the Workplace

Introduction

Ambassador Maryben Omollo, a globally renowned Mental Health and Leadership Coach, 17-time award-winning speaker, and Founder of the Maryben Foundation, has spent her career advocating for inclusive, resilient workplaces across Africa. With a global reach of over 50 million people, her voice resonates with leaders, professionals, and communities alike. But beyond her accolades lies a deep well of lived experience—one that spans every side of the professional table. In June 2025, Maryben shared a candid reflection on her journey through the workforce: from job seeker to employer, from business owner to boardroom leader. Her message was not just a personal story—it was a call to action for every department, every leader, and every professional to lead with empathy, transparency, and humanity.

The Weight of Experience

Maryben’s journey has not been without hardship. She knows what it feels like to send out hundreds of CVs and receive nothing but silence. She understands the crushing weight of being unable to pay salaries as a business owner. She has walked into offices where people looked right through her, as if she didn’t exist. These experiences, though painful, have shaped her into the leader she is today. They have given her a unique perspective—one that bridges the gap between those seeking opportunities and those in positions to offer them. Her message is clear: we’ve all been on the other side of the table. And we must never forget that.

Procurement: Say “No” with Clarity

In procurement departments, silence can be more damaging than rejection. Maryben urges procurement officers to communicate clearly with suppliers. If a business opportunity is not available, say so. Don’t leave vendors hanging after weeks of follow-up. A simple, respectful “no” is far better than being ignored. This small act of communication can preserve dignity, build trust, and maintain professional relationships—even when deals don’t go through. It’s not about saying yes to everyone—it’s about saying something.

Human Resources: Rejection with Respect

For HR professionals, Maryben’s message is equally direct: if a candidate didn’t qualify, let them know. Don’t avoid their emails, dodge their calls, or disappear behind closed doors. A kind, honest rejection is far more humane than silence. Job seekers invest time, energy, and hope into every application. Acknowledging their effort—even with a “no”—shows respect. It also reflects the values of the organisation. HR is not just about hiring; it’s about human dignity.

Founders and Directors: Lead with Transparency

To business owners and directors, Maryben offers a hard truth: if you can’t afford to pay your team, be honest about it. Pretending everything is fine only erodes trust. People can work with the truth—they can’t work with deception. Transparency doesn’t make you weak; it makes you trustworthy. In times of financial strain, open communication can foster solidarity, creativity, and even loyalty. It’s not the struggle that breaks teams—it’s the silence.

Finance and Accounts: Numbers with a Human Face

Finance departments often operate behind spreadsheets and systems. But Maryben reminds us that salaries are not just numbers—they are lifelines. They feed families, pay school fees, and keep homes running. When delays happen, communicate. Don’t hide behind procedures. Be human. A simple explanation can ease anxiety and show that you care. Financial management is not just about accuracy—it’s about empathy.

Receptionists and Office Assistants: The First Impression Matters

For those at the front desk—the first point of contact in any organisation—Maryben’s message is heartfelt. That job seeker walking in? They woke up early, dressed with hope, and walked in with courage. Don’t mock them. Don’t dismiss them. Be kind. A warm smile, a respectful tone, a moment of patience—these small gestures can restore someone’s dignity. You may not be the hiring manager, but you can be the reason someone doesn’t give up.

Everyone: Remember Where You Started

Maryben’s most powerful reminder is this: you were once on the other side of the table. You were once the job seeker, the intern, the hopeful applicant. And someone gave you a chance. Never forget that. Whether you’re in leadership, HR, finance, or administration—your actions matter. You have the power to uplift or to diminish. Choose kindness. Choose clarity. Choose to be the person who makes someone feel seen.

Lessons to Learn

Maryben Omollo’s message offers timeless lessons for every professional:

1. Communication is Compassion: Silence can be more painful than rejection. Say something—even if it’s “no.”
2. Transparency Builds Trust: Whether in leadership or finance, honesty fosters stronger teams and healthier workplaces.
3. Kindness is a Professional Skill: From reception to the boardroom, empathy should be part of every job description.
4. Everyone Starts Somewhere: Remembering your own journey keeps you grounded and humble.
5. Leadership is Shared: You don’t need a title to lead. Every interaction is an opportunity to make a difference.

Reflection

Ambassador Maryben Omollo’s reflections are more than a critique of workplace culture—they are a blueprint for a more compassionate professional world. Her words challenge us to rethink how we treat others, especially those who are vulnerable, hopeful, or in need of a chance. In a world that often prioritises efficiency over empathy, her message is a call to slow down, to see people, and to respond with humanity. Whether you’re making hiring decisions, managing budgets, or simply answering the phone, your actions matter. Let us normalise kindness. In hiring. In procurement. In leadership. In every department.Because at the end of the day, we’ve all been on the other side of the table. And it only took one person to give us a chance. Be that person for someone else.