Men seeking to become better leaders at home should embrace sport, learn new languages and take up musical instruments, according to Julius Kipngetich, Group CEO of Jubilee Holdings.
Kipngetich told a leadership forum that meaningful personal pursuits can strengthen mental resilience, improve family relationships and help fathers become more present in their children’s lives.
“My recommendation, and this is out of reflection over time, is how you strengthen your resolve and leadership at home,” he said.
Kipngetich urged participants to actively engage in a sport rather than simply watch one.
“You have to be an expert in participating,” he said. “I know some of you are experts in watching, but you have to be an expert in participating.”
He said sport provides both physical and mental benefits, helping individuals channel energy, find purpose and develop discipline. He encouraged attendees to identify at least one sport they could commit to over the coming months, whether golf, tennis, swimming, football or even chess.
According to Kipngetich, sporting activities can also have a positive influence on family life, with children often adopting healthy habits from their parents.
“Your children also pick the same habit of a sport because sports help you mentally,” he said.
The second pillar of personal development, he argued, is learning a new language. Kipngetich said language acquisition exposes people to different cultures, broadens perspectives and reduces social and cultural biases.
“A language is a very interesting thing in mental resolve. It exposes you to other cultures, other people,” he said.
He suggested that learning local or international languages could help foster understanding in an increasingly diverse society. Referencing his own ambitions, he revealed a desire to learn Dholuo, describing it as “a very romantic language”.
Mr. Kipngetich linked cultural understanding to social cohesion, arguing that greater familiarity with different communities could help reduce divisions.
“When you embrace people from other cultures, you become automatically a better human being,” he said.
The final recommendation was learning a musical instrument. He described music as “food for the soul” and said musical skills can enrich family life and provide a constructive outlet for personal growth.
“If you want to be a better father, a better leader, can you feed your soul with a musical instrument?” he asked.
He painted a picture of households where parents play instruments such as the piano, inspiring children to pursue music themselves through instruments including the violin, cello or flute.
Mr. Kipngetich said these activities help people spend their time more productively, reduce unhealthy habits and create opportunities for stronger family engagement.
“You will find yourself spending less time in the pub. You will find yourself being a present father,” he said.
He concluded by urging men to invest in activities that create purpose, strengthen family bonds and enhance leadership at home.
“Can we occupy our time and make ourselves present by doing those three things at home?” he said. “In that way, you strengthen your leadership, you lessen the pressure and you live a life of purpose.”
Kipngetich added that sport, language and music all provide opportunities for parents to participate alongside their children, helping draw entire families together and creating a stronger foundation for leadership within the home.
