Have you booked your ticket for our 5th AG-Career Hub Career & Business Networking Meet-up 2025? Book your ticket now and meet the Key Note Speaker, Panelists, Exhibitors and Facilitators. 

 

Key Note Speaker & Panelists

 MONICA GICHOHI (KEY NOTE SPEAKER)

 MONICA GICHOHI (KEY NOTE SPEAKER)

Enterprise Digital Transformation Lead EMEA, Bayer Crop Science, Germany

Topic: Breaking Barriers in Tech: From East Africa to EMEA Leadership at the world's leading AG and Pharmaceutical Giant

Why I believe growth knows no borders
" People are not limited by their titles, geography, or background—but by the boundaries they place on their own potential. Growth is about seeing beyond what is, and into what can be. It’s about high performance with purpose, bold transformation with balance, and the courage to blend into new cultures while staying true to who you are."

Monica Gichohi is a Kenyan-born digital transformation leader, proud mother, devoted follower of Christ, and passionate impact creator. With over 19 years of experience in the IT sector across both local (Kenyan) and global landscapes, she brings a rare blend of strategic thinking, technical acumen, and people-first leadership.

Her expertise spans strategy development, business partnering, process integration, project execution, budget oversight, and team development. This combination of analytical rigor, problem-solving ability, and visionary leadership has made her a trusted and invaluable business partner in every role she’s held.

Monica currently serves as the EMEA Digital Lead – Product Supply at Bayer Crop Science in Monheim, Germany. In this role, she partners with the Product Supply organization to co-create and deliver value-driven digital strategies at both regional and global levels. She is responsible for business partnering, developing and delivering digital strategies, coaching and developing diverse teams, driving disruptive innovation, and leading the implementation of S/4HANA across the EMEA region.

Previously, Monica held the role of Enabling Asia Africa and Africa IT Lead, where she led the digital transformation strategy for enabling functions (Finance, HR, Legal) across Asia and Africa. She also oversaw all IT operations for the Africa region, delivering a five-year IT roadmap with a $12M budget. Notably, she led the rollout of SAP ERP across five African countries and implemented a digital crop insurance program that impacted farmers in three nations.

Her earlier career included IT leadership roles in the microfinance and insurance sectors within East Africa, where she led ERP implementations, built high-performing teams, and established managed shared services across three organizations. Beyond her professional life, Monica is an avid motorcycle rider, singer, dancer, fitness enthusiast, and traveler—passions that reflect her vibrant, adventurous spirit and love for community and connection.

DAVID THUKU KAMAU (PANELIST)

Medical Doctor (Urologist), Germany

Topic: Navigating Medicine, Faith & Life in Germany - A journey of purpose

Do you struggle to understand the medical systems in Germany? Are you having challenges balancing between career and your wellbeing? Are you struggling with your faith and would like to interact with someone who understands how to remain strong and grounded in the walk with God?

Meet David Thuku Kamau, a Kenyan medical doctor currently practicing as a Urologist in a leading hospital in Germany. David  will be one of the guest panelists sharing his powerful journey—one marked by courage, persistence, and purpose.

Originally from Kenya, David relocated to Germany with the dream of studying medicine. His journey into the medical field was not without obstacles—from navigating a new language and complex academic systems to adapting to a culturally different and highly structured healthcare environment. Despite these challenges, he transitioned successfully into the German job market and is now thriving in his specialty field of urology.

With a deep understanding of the struggles many in the diaspora face, especially when it comes to understanding healthcare systems abroad, David is passionate about empowering the diaspora community. He actively supports individuals and families trying to make sense of the German medical landscape, while also encouraging people to prioritize their health—even in the midst of ambitious career pursuits.

David is also deeply invested in youth empowerment, particularly within the African diaspora. As a strong believer and a committed member of CWL Church in Bonn, he integrates faith into his personal and professional life. He understands what it means to hold on to God while navigating foreign systems, and is always open to connecting with others on how to stay spiritually grounded.

He is also an active member of The Dokis Advice (www.dokis-advice.com), an organization founded by fellow medical doctor Dr. Daniel Ogutu, which offers free medical services in Kenya. The initiative is a brilliant example of skill transfer, where trained professionals in Germany give back to their home communities through sustainable healthcare outreach.

RACHAEL OKONGO (PANELIST)

Teacher / School in Berlin & Mentor of future teachers at the Universität Potsdam

Topic: Understanding the German Education System & Supporting Your Child's Success
Are you a new parent navigating the education system in Germany? Do you feel the daily challenge of balancing work and raising children in a new environment? Are you looking for empowerment and practical advice on how to support your child’s growth in Germany? Are you looking for opportunities to work in the education sector in Germany?

Rachael Okongo is a passionate educator and Berlin-based teacher who will guide parents through the structure of the German education system — from the different types of schools to key transitions and what to expect at each stage. The session will also explore practical ways parents can support their children's education while balancing work and family life, particularly within a multicultural context.

Having arrived in Germany in the late 1990s as a student, Rachael brings both lived experience and professional expertise. With academic backgrounds in Pharmacy and Biology, and a specialisation in Evolution and Biodiversity at Freie Universität Berlin, her journey has taken her from research scientist to primary school teacher and university mentor of future teachers at the University of Potsdam. Outside the classroom, she is an active advocate for BIPOC children’s rights in schools, collaborating with international institutions.

Whether you're new to the German school system or looking for empowering insights, this talk offers valuable tools for navigating education with cultural awareness, purpose, and support. This event is your chance to learn, share, and connect with others on the same journey.

PETER DIANG'A (PANELIST)

Junior Logistics Assistant | Germany, DAAD Alumni

Topic: Career in Supply Chain & Logistics in Germany: DAAD Scholarhip and ERP Skills Experience
Meet Peter Dianga, a junior professional in the Supply Chain and Logistics industry, currently working with a logistics company in Bremen, Germany. Peter holds an M.A. in International Business and Management from Hochschule Osnabrück and was among the first recipients of the prestigious DAAD "Leadership for Africa" scholarship.

During his studies, Peter also completed an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) program with SAP S/4HANA through ERP4Students and Brandenburg University of Applied Sciences—courses that offer valuable, practical skills for students aspiring to enter the logistics and supply chain sectors. These organisation will also be attending the event.

Passionate about mentorship, he is eager to support other aspiring professionals by sharing his career journey, insights on cultural integration in a new environment, and detailed guidance on accessing DAAD funding opportunities.

Charity Kawira Lucyline

Pricing Analyst | Insurance Sector in Germany

Topic: Building a Career in the Actuarial Industry and Relocation with Family to Germany
Are you looking to build a career in the actuarial industry in Germany? Wondering how to navigate the transition from studying to working in a new country? I’d be glad to share my journey and offer mentorship.

My actuarial journey began in Kenya, where I earned a BSc in Actuarial Science from Dedan Kimathi University. I later moved to Germany and completed an MSc in Mathematics at Leibniz University Hannover.

I am currently working as a Pricing Actuary with Allianz in Germany. Previously, I gained valuable experience as a Working Student at Hannover Re, collaborating with mathematicians in the Group Risk Management – Life and Health department.

I'm passionate about supporting aspiring professionals in understanding the German job market, especially within actuarial science. I'm also ready to mentor anyone interested in learning about relocating to Germany with family and navigating the work-life balance here.

Company & Organisation Representatives, Workshop Facilitators, Professional Network

Edith Otiende-Lawani

Lawyer & Founder, GAaNF / 360° Labour Mobility

Topic:  Exploring Career Pathways in Law & Unlocking the Potentials of Africans in Diaspora  
Having moved to Germany in 2006 with a strong passion for human rights, Edith embarked on an inspiring legal journey—earning her law degree from the prestigious Ludwig-Maximilian-University in Munich and completing her legal internship (Referendariat) at the Higher Regional Court (Oberlandesgericht) Munich. Since then, she has worked extensively across multiple fields including compliance, criminal law, immigration law, employment law, and corporate law.

But her journey extends beyond the courtroom. Edith is a powerful advocate for African diaspora engagement in shaping migration and development policies. Her commitment to social impact led her to found Giving Africa a New Face e.V., an association that promotes sustainable partnerships between Germany and Africa and advocates for inclusive socio-political structures within German society.

One of her standout initiatives is the 360° Labour Mobility Programme—a groundbreaking, partnership-driven model that connects skilled job seekers from Ghana and Nigeria with employment opportunities in Germany.

As we explore the theme “Career Pathways in Law”, Edith will offer her insights on:
  • How can the African diaspora actively embrace and help solve Germany’s labour mobility challenges?
  • What roles do legal professionals and diaspora organizations play in transforming migration into opportunity?
In addition to her legal and social work, Ms. Otiende-Lawani is also actively engaged in German politics, where she advocates for progressive reforms in development, refugee, and migration policies. 

Osman Vatenserver

Community & Relation Manager at socialbee

Topic:  Pathways to Employment in Germany with socialbee 
Are you looking for ways to get into the job market in Germany? Do you know that one of the gateways into the job market is engaging with organisations like socialbee? One of us—a fellow community member—joined a qualification programme by Socialbee and later secured a job in her field with one of Germany’s top companies. This might be your chance to engage with socialbee.

We’re excited to introduce our next guest speaker and company representative: Osman Vatansever, Community & Relationship Manager at Socialbee.

Socialbee is Germany’s leading integration expert. They help refugees and migrants find meaningful employment and support companies in hiring diverse talent for the long term. Their mission is to promote sustainable integration—creating real opportunities, building inclusive workplaces, and strengthening society as a whole.

At Socialbee, Osman plays a key role in building community partnerships and helping jobseekers access tailored qualification programmes, job placements, and intercultural support. 

Julia Miller

Head of Start-up Consulting / Institut für Freie Berufe (IFB) 

Topic: Your Path to Self-Employment & Freelancing in Germany: What you need to know 
Thinking about going freelance? Not sure where to start? Are you dreaming of becoming self-employed in a scientific, artistic, writing, teaching, or educational field — but unsure about the legal and tax requirements in Germany? Do you want to know if your work qualifies as freelance or whether you need to register a business?

Maybe you’re employed but considering launching your own business on the side — and wondering when it counts as secondary employment? Then this session is for you.

We’re excited to host Julia Miller, Head of Start-up Consulting at the IFB Institut für Freie Berufe an der Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg e.V. University Erlangen-Nürnberg during our 5th career & business networking meet-up on 28.06.2025.

The IFB is one of Germany’s leading advisory institutions for freelancers and self-employed professionals. Ms. Miller, is a trained business economist and has been supporting freelancers since 2018 with practical advice and startup consulting.

About the IFB
The Institute for Liberal Professions (IFB) specializes in advising freelancers before and after they start their businesses. With its expertise and sector-specific focus, IFB is often the first point of contact for professionals seeking trusted guidance in navigating freelance work in Germany. 

Allan Onsando

Co-Head Africa TaxPertise Centre
WTS (ITP) Germany

Topic: Explore and grow Your Career in Tax, Legal & Consultation Business with WTS Deutschland 

Are you curious about career opportunities in international taxation, law, or audit? Wondering how global firms operate across borders—and how professionals like you can tap into these networks?

We’re excited to introduce our next guest. With a legal background from Kenya and South Africa, Allan relocated to Germany, where he pursued further studies in Business Administration and Management. His unique blend of legal expertise, corporate strategy, responsible management, and academic experience has enabled him to support numerous multinational enterprises (MNEs), SMEs, and individuals doing business in and with Africa.

Allan is a firm believer in the principle that “iron sharpens iron.” He is deeply committed to uplifting others—both socially and professionally—and continues to mentor and guide individuals exploring global career paths.

During the event, Allan will share:
* Career pathways in international tax, law, and audit with WTS
* Insights on navigating cross-border business between Africa and Europe
* The role of education and strategic relocation in building a global career
* Practical tips for aspiring professionals in international consulting

Susanna Kis

Lead Recruiter in Germany & Career Coach

Topic: Optimizing Your German CV for Career Success: Crafting Applications that get you noticed

Are you looking for guidance on how to optimise your German CV and boost your visibility with recruiters?

We are excited to share the next profile from our next guest who will be joining us at the 5th Career & Business Networking Meet-up on June 28, 2025, in Nürnberg at Technische Hochschule Nürnberg Georg Simon Ohm

Susanna Kis is an experienced Lead Recruiter with a strong background in the IT and manufacturing industries. Her expertise spans career coaching, people analytics, recruitment, and active sourcing. With a Master of Arts in Human Resource Development from the Technical University of Kaiserslautern, she is passionate about helping individuals shape their careers and supporting organisations in attracting top talent.

Currently, Susanna is conducting research on expats’ job search activities in Germany — and will share insights to help you position yourself effectively in the job market. Follow her on LinkedIn and on her blog for career tips, job search strategies, and recruitment trends.

Pouyan Khatami (Exhibitor)

Programme Manager, erp4students bei TH Brandenburg

Topic: Boost your Career: Learn ERP with erp4students in Germany 

Are you currently studying in Germany and looking to gain in-demand ERP skills?

We’re excited to announce that our partners from erp4students will be joining us at the event on 28.06.2025! They’ll be there to share how you can enroll in their SAP-certified online courses, how these skills can boost your employability, and what career paths ERP knowledge can unlock—especially within the German job market.

We’re especially delighted that Pouyan Khatami, the Programme Manager for erp4forstudents, will be representing erp4students during the session. Whether you’re exploring career paths in IT, business, or engineering—or simply want to gain hands-on experience with tools used by top employers—this is a great chance to learn more.

Even more exciting – Peter Dian'ga, one of our guests and a community members and a successful erp4students participant, will also be joining us! They’ll be sharing their personal experience, how the courses impacted their career journey, and what it's like to transition from student to skilled SAP professional.

Who is erp4students?
erp4students is a leading provider of university-accredited online courses focused on ERP systems, particularly SAP—the world’s most widely used enterprise software. Designed specifically for students, their programs offer practical, career-relevant training that fits into your study schedule. With certifications recognized by industry leaders, erp4students helps bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world skills 

Maureen Burgstahler

Agile Coach - Human Resource at EnBW AG
Founder of African & Beyond Women Empowerment Forum

Topic:  Explore Career Opportunities with EnBW + Join our Mental Wellness Workshop 

We are excited to announce that Maureen Burgstahler will be the company representative of EnBW during our 5th Career, Business & Networking Event in Nürnberg. In addition to representing the company and sharing valuable career insights, Maureen will also be offering a workshop on hental health awareness and empowerment.

Who is Maureen?
Maureen is an Agile Coach, Team Lead, and Business Trainer with over ten years’ experience helping leaders and teams thrive through agility and psychological safety. She is an active member of EnBW’s Civil Council, supporting sustainable transformation and inclusive decision-making.

Her career began at EnBW as an Office Clerk, rising steadily to Agile Coach and Team Lead—a journey marked by resilience and determination. Certified as a Life & Purpose Coach with diplomas in systemic coaching and mental health practice, Maureen combines strategic leadership with a holistic, empathetic approach. As a Law of Attraction Coach, she empowers individuals to overcome self-doubt and live with clarity and confidence.

She also founded the Africa & Beyond Women Empowerment Forum, a platform connecting PoCs, BiPoCs, and allies across the diaspora. As an author of books like The Confident Me and Ubuntu Within, Maureen shares inspiring stories of resilience and purpose. Link: https://lnkd.in/eemx4H6K

Her workshop will offer practical tools for mental wellness and empowerment to support growth in both career and personal life. Don’t miss the chance to network with Maureen, explore career opportunities at EnBW, and gain insights to thrive in today’s evolving energy sector.

Kelvin Makaka

Project Engineer / Area of Expertise: Mechatronic Engineer 

Topic: Insights on Moving from University to Engineering Roles in Germany 

Kelvin Makaka Project Engineer Knauf is a Project Engineer from Kenya currently working at Knauf in Germany’s tech and engineering sector. He began his journey in 2018 as an international student, studying Mechatronics in Germany. Over the years, he successfully transitioned from university into the workforce, navigating the complex path of internships, job applications, and adapting to the German work culture.

Having studied Mechatronics and successfully transitioned into Germany’s tech industry, Kelvin offers valuable insights on how international students—especially from Kenya—can break into engineering and tech roles across Germany and Europe. He shares his personal journey, practical career tips, and lessons learned from his professional experience. Passionate about mentoring and creating opportunities, Kelvin is dedicated to helping others launch and thrive in their careers abroad.

Don't miss this opportunity to hear from someone who's walked the path and is now helping others do the same!

Angella Onsomu

Lawyer & Senior Data Privacy Expert at Fresenius Medical Care

Topic:  Exploring Career Pathways in Law & Data Privacy in Germany

Did you study law outside Germany and now feel unsure about how to enter the job market here? Did you know that with a legal background, you can also explore fields like data privacy?

Our next guest knows this journey well. After studying law in Kenya and moving to Germany, Angella Onsomu, LL.M., CIPP/E faced challenges with her qualifications not being recognized in Germany. But she didn’t give up—and instead, found new ways to grow her career. Today, she works as a Senior Data Privacy Expert and has worked in big companies in sports, automobile and in pharmaceutical industries in Germany.

Angella is ready to share her experience and offer guidance to others walking a similar path. Come hear her story, ask your questions, and get inspired to keep going. 

Facilitators, Moderators & Kids corner
 

 

Caroline Mwangi

George Gacheru

Susan Dettmer

Boniface Mwangi

  James Kimathi  
       

   
Joy Wendo Collins Ronoh David Kamau Thuku Faith Njuguna  Diana Achuti   

About AG-Career Hub

AG-Career Hub founded by Kenyan Professionals based in Germany is an information and consulting platform with a key focus of establishing linkages to facilitate partnerships and collaborations with companies, universities and diaspora communities in Germany and in Africa.

The organisation was founded in 2018 and it is the largest network for Kenyan Professionals in Germany. Together with our team and a pool of experts and mentors we create linkage in academia and business between Germany and Kenya, mentor, coach, train young professionals and share career and business opportunities in Germany and in Africa. The community is made up of companies, students and professionals who studied, trained, worked in Germany or are in self employment and some have relocated back to their countries of origin. Read more about our work here: https://www.ag-careerhub.com/about-us/our-profile

Scholarships in Africa (1) DAAD Scholarships in Africa (2) DAAD Scholarships (2) Jobs with German Companies in Africa (1) Student Jobs and Internships (2) DAAD Centers of Excellence (1)

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