Q&A Monday : Kaburo Kobia (@Kaburo)

Kaburo Kobia is the Project Manager for Local Digital Content at the Kenya ICT Board.

Kaburo is also a board advisor for Akira Chix, a Kenyan organization that promotes young women in technology, and is passionate about developing young women’s leadership.

1. What was your first phone?

My first phone was probably a hand-me down Nokia. But the first phone I bought and owned for myself was a Silver Panasonic – one of those first mobile phones to have a color screen and polyphonic ringtones. I loved this phone and kept it for years!

2. What do you prefer? Facebook or Twitter? Why?

Twitter. Too busy for Facebook. Life is short, 140 characters will do.

3. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

That will be 2017 and I’d be … ummm 35 years old (give or take). I hope to be using my creative talent a lot more either working for myself or for a great company. But design/art will be a core part of my day-to-day.

4. Any question for us? (we will publish our answer as well)

Who is your favorite, little-known, African-born author?

Ahmadou Kourouma. He was a brilliant writer but his work is largely unknown especially in English speaking Africa.

5. What would you do if you were president for a day?

If I were President for a day, I would make that day a National Holiday and have my favourite artists perform for me and my peeps at the Stadium… no at the National Park. Oh and make health care free for all and figure out a way to pay for free health care (can that be done in a day?)

6. Whats your favorite book & movie?

Its hard to choose one favorite book. There are the books that change your life, that make you laugh or make you wiser. They all have a role. Generally, I love books written by women — especially women from Africa, Asia, South America. Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy, One Hundred Years of Solitude by Garcia Marquez (not a woman, but i love his books).

Movies I’m not too particular, anything to keep me entertained – as long as it is not too cheezy. Cheezy only if its a classic, is Dirty Dancing cheezy?

7. Who/What inspired you to do what you do now?

My art teachers have always inspired me. In Kenya High, Mr Okanga, my art teacher was a big influence. In and out of class he taught us to think critically and work hard – damn hard. In university, Mr Caleb – one of my art professors pushed me real hard. But in the end he helped me understand that I had only me to blame if I failed and, as an African woman — to value every opportunity I got and make the most of it. Both taught me important lessons that have contributed to where I am today.8. If you were to change jobs, what profession would you get into? Why?Archeologist. I’m facinated by the artifacts left behind by past generations and the insight they give us into their lives. History is intriguing to me and I feel that archeology helps bring that history to life.

9.If you had a superpower, what would it be?

Teleport. I’m working on it right now – there has to be a better way to get home from town in rush hour. Y’know?10. If you were deserted on an abandoned island what 5 things would you want to have?