Denis Ntara: A Journey from Japan to Kenya and Beyond

Denis Ntara, the country director of Saraya Kenya, has a story that intertwines cultures, careers, and personal growth. His journey began in Takasaki, Japan, where he worked as a national technical project manager for Procter & Gamble. Despite his success in Japan, Denis felt the pull of his African roots and made the bold decision to return to Kenya, where he now leads Saraya, a Japanese manufacturer of health and hygiene products.

A Multilingual Maestro

Denis is not just a business leader; he is also a polyglot. Fluent in Japanese, he has embraced the language and culture to such an extent that he co-founded Radio Takasaki in Japan, where he served as the resident DJ. His passion for music and communication has been a constant thread throughout his life, showcasing his ability to connect with diverse audiences.

Engineering a New Path

With a degree in electronics engineering from the Nippon Institute of Technology, Denis has a strong technical background. However, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Blan.Co do-mo, a coffee roastery in Japan. This venture reflects his love for coffee and his desire to blend different cultures through culinary experiences.

The Transition: From Japan to Kenya

Reflecting on his transition back to Kenya after 14 years in Japan, Denis describes the experience as a mix of nostalgia and reality check. "I came back as a summer bunny," he jokes, acknowledging the cultural shock that awaited him. Despite the challenges, he recognized the immense potential for growth in Africa, which motivated his return.

The Call of Africa

Denis’s decision to return to Africa was driven by a realization that the continent offers unparalleled opportunities for innovation and development. He traveled extensively across West Africa in 2017 as a football scout, exploring ways to identify and nurture young talent. This experience deepened his understanding of the potential within Africa and solidified his commitment to contributing to its growth.

Lessons from Japan

During his time in Japan, Denis adopted a meticulous and systematic approach to life and work. He observed that Japanese culture emphasizes planning and structure, contrasting with the more adaptive nature of Kenyan culture. While he appreciates the flexibility of Kenyan life, he has integrated elements of Japanese planning into his own approach, finding a balance that works for him.

The DJ Journey

Before diving into the corporate world, Denis dabbled in DJing, a passion that began with a simple purchase of a DJ set from Amazon. Encouraged by friends, he learned the craft and eventually played in large clubs in Tokyo. His love for music remains, and he continues to DJ for fun, showcasing his eclectic taste and ability to connect with people through rhythm and sound.

A Unique Perspective

Denis believes that his diverse experiences give him a unique edge in the business world. He describes himself as someone who can immerse deeply in various disciplines, from engineering to coffee roasting, and now health and hygiene products. This breadth of knowledge allows him to approach problems from multiple angles, fostering creativity and innovation within his team at Saraya.

The Balance of Breadth and Depth

While some may worry about spreading oneself too thin, Denis sees value in his broad interests. He argues that while a focused approach may yield immediate results, the long-term benefits of diverse experiences can lead to greater insights and adaptability. He emphasizes the importance of patience in this journey, recognizing that growth takes time.

Leadership Philosophy

Denis’s leadership style is characterized by a hands-off approach. He believes in empowering his team to learn from their mistakes and develop their own solutions. By sharing a clear vision and allowing for individual interpretation, he fosters an environment of creativity and innovation. His experiences in both Japan and Kenya have shaped his understanding of effective leadership, blending meticulous planning with creative problem-solving.

The Personal Side of Leadership

As a father to a four-year-old son, Denis reflects on the importance of being intentional in his decisions. He strives to impart knowledge and values to his son, hoping to equip him with the tools to navigate life successfully. His own upbringing, marked by the sacrifices of his parents, instilled in him a sense of responsibility and ambition.

The Influence of Family

Denis credits his mother as the most influential person in his life. A retired teacher and savvy businesswoman, she taught him the importance of financial discipline and smart decision-making. Her lessons on viewing money as a tool rather than an end goal have shaped his approach to wealth and success.

Cultural Insights

Having lived in Japan, Denis appreciates the minimalist lifestyle prevalent in Japanese culture. He notes that humility is valued over ostentation, a principle he admires and strives to embody. This perspective influences his approach to life and work, emphasizing the importance of experiences over material possessions.

Evolving Perspectives on Money

Denis’s understanding of money has evolved significantly over the years. Initially seen as an elusive goal, he now views it as a means to create value and impact lives. This shift in perspective reflects his growth as an individual and a leader, allowing him to focus on the journey rather than the destination.

Navigating Ambition and Relationships

Denis acknowledges the sacrifices that come with ambition, particularly in terms of personal relationships. He has chosen to prioritize work and family, finding fulfillment in his hobbies and passions. While he may not actively seek relationships, he values the connections he has and the experiences that enrich his life.

The Journey Ahead

Denis embraces the uncertainty of life, viewing it as an adventure rather than a destination. He draws inspiration from the philosophy of the character Luffy from the Japanese manga series One Piece, who believes in the journey itself. This mindset fuels his ambition and drives him to explore new opportunities.

Redefining Failure

For Denis, failure is not a setback but an opportunity for growth. He believes that intentionality plays a crucial role in how one navigates challenges, and he encourages others to view obstacles as stepping stones rather than roadblocks.

A Message of Possibility

Denis Ntara’s journey is a testament to the power of embracing diverse experiences and perspectives. He believes that as a country and a people, we have the potential to achieve anything we set our minds to. His story serves as an inspiration for those navigating their own paths, reminding us that the journey is just as important as the destination.