#20
DR. FIONA ASONGA
CEO, TESPOK
Beyond the success they achieve, true leaders are defined by the legacy they leave behind. They uplift others, create pathways, and shine a light on those around them, particularly those just beginning their journeys. This kind of transformative leadership is exemplified by Dr. Fiona Asonga, CEO of the Technology Service Providers Association of Kenya (TESPOK), whose unwavering passion for STEM inspires countless women to embrace careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
TESPOK, founded as the Telecommunications Service Providers Association of Kenya in 1999, has become a key player in the ICT space under Dr. Asonga’s leadership. Over her 16-year tenure, she has provided clear strategic direction, significantly shaping policy and regulatory frameworks that foster a thriving ICT environment. Her visionary leadership has strengthened TESPOK’s role in managing crucial infrastructure, including the Kenya Internet Exchange Point (KIXP) and the Industry Computer Security Incident Response Teams (i-CSIRT). As a trusted voice on national, regional, and global ICT issues, TESPOK engages in critical discussions on cybersecurity, intellectual property, and digital rights. With a growing membership of over 150 and a dedicated full-time staff of more than 15, the organisation continues to thrive under her ethical and strategic guidance.
One of Dr. Asonga’s crowning achievements is her active involvement in positioning Kenya as a tech hub. Long before the concept was adopted in the 2015 ICT Masterplan, she was advocating for Kenya to embrace its potential in the digital economy. Her leadership in TESPOK has placed her at the heart of policy development efforts in Kenya and across East Africa. Through her participation in the East Africa Communications Organization, the African Network Information Center (AFRINIC), and the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), she has relentlessly championed ICT growth.
Dr. Asonga’s journey into the world of technology was not direct. After graduating from the United States International University-Africa (USIU-A) with a degree in International Business Administration (IBA) majoring in Finance, she began volunteering at St. Paul’s Church, where a fateful meeting with an engineer opened the door to career opportunities in ICT. This led to an internship at Seven Seas Technologies, where she immersed herself in the ICT industry, gaining vital certifications and hands-on experience. Her role as an account manager marked her first significant step into the technology sector.
As her curiosity and determination grew, Dr. Asonga seized the opportunity to join TESPOK. Her commitment to continuous learning led her to pursue additional certifications, bolstering her confidence and equipping her for leadership roles. “I realised there were systemic biases that discouraged women from progressing to leadership roles in STEM,” Dr. Asonga reflects. “I was determined to turn those setbacks into fuel for my mission to create more inclusive spaces for women in science.”
As Dr. Asonga rose through the ranks, she became keenly aware of the lack of resources available to women in STEM, particularly in mentorship and career development. This gap motivated her to act. She began bringing young women together, encouraging them to explore STEM courses and career opportunities. Over time, her efforts gained momentum, and today she mentors students at universities and high schools across the region, passionately speaking about career diversity and the vast possibilities in STEM.
Dr. Asonga’s personal and professional journey proves that women not only survive but can thrive in STEM environments. Committed to helping women navigate male-dominated fields, she understands the struggles many face in rising to leadership or staying in their careers. She is determined to change this narrative, stating, “I want these women to know they are not alone. With the right guidance and perseverance, they can overcome challenges and achieve greatness.”
Through her mentorship, which blends practical guidance with emotional support, Dr. Asonga helps women cultivate the confidence and values essential for success. She encourages them to lead with a mindset of serving others while staying true to their own aspirations. As a result, many women under her guidance have flourished, building successful careers as engineers, tech entrepreneurs, CEOs of start-ups, and professionals across various STEM fields.
Dr. Asonga is also deeply involved in shaping policies that promote diversity in STEM, ensuring that women are well-represented in leadership roles, starting with her own organisation, where women hold many top management positions. “Dear ladies, do not shy away from STEM courses or careers. Your voice, talent, and passion are needed,” she urges. “I believe in changing the narrative, one woman at a time. Cheers to a more equitable, innovative STEM community.”
Dr. Fiona Asonga’s leadership is not just about breaking barriers – it is about building bridges for the women who follow in her footsteps. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep-seated belief in the potential of women in STEM. Through her vision and dedication, Dr. Asonga continues to illuminate the path for others, proving that when women support each other, the possibilities are truly endless.
AUTHOR: DR. FIONA ASONGA
EDITOR: MARTIN O’NEIL
