The East Africa HR Symposium is organized by Rise & Learn Limited, a Human Resource & Leadership consulting firm committed to Leadership Development, Training in organizations and Outsourcing of Human Resource services to Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises.
The 7th East Africa HR Symposium, held from August 27 to 29, 2025 at the Kigali Marriott Hotel, Rwanda, brought together HR professionals, thought leaders, policymakers, and business executives from across East Africa to examine the evolving dynamics at the intersection of people, policy, and technology.
Under the banner “HR at the Crossroads: Shaping the Future of Workforce Transformation in Africa,” the Symposium reaffirmed HR’s pivotal role amid accelerating trends such as AI, automation, hybrid work models, and shifting workforce expectations.
Over three days, delegates:
Engaged in keynote speeches, panel discussions, masterclasses, and immersive sessions on critical topics including skills-based hiring, ethical AI in HR, inclusive leadership, employee well-being, and the influence of visibility in talent attraction.
Connected and networked deeply, exchanging insights in relaxed sessions and dynamic meet-ups
Enjoyed exclusive access to a Live2Lead rebroadcast, featuring world-class leadership insights from John C. Maxwell and other global figures, enriching the Symposium’s value with proven leadership strategies.
We were especially honored to partner with KaizenMind, whose local insight and networks were invaluable in orchestrating a vibrant and culturally resonant experience in Kigali.
This edition continued the Symposium’s journey since its inception in 2018 in Naivasha, Kenya, and its rotation through cities in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and now Rwanda. Each host city uniquely enriched the Symposium’s spirit and scope.
To all delegates, speakers, partners, sponsors, and contributors—thank you for being part of this transformative chapter. Together, you reaffirmed HR’s strategic role in shaping resilient, inclusive, and future-ready workplaces across Africa.
Murakaza neza i Kigali!
We had a chat with some of the professionals who have attended the symposiums and this is what they had to say.
Attending the EAHR Symposium has been a transformative experience for me, particularly in my role as Manager, Talent Acquisition. The diverse range of topics discussed has broadened my perspective and significantly enhanced my strategic approach to HR management and leadership. I have become more intentional about hiring individuals with a growth mindset, who are willing to challenge the status quo and bring fresh, creative ideas a new mindset I acquired from the EAHR Symposium held in Kampala Uganda in November 2023
Sonia Ashaba Ahebwa Manager - Talent AcquisitionThe 5th EAHR Symposium held in Kampala Uganda IN 2023 was facilitated by Industry experts who provided invaluable insights into how organizations can thrive amidst uncertainty and change. I particularly appreciated the practical strategies that foster resilience and adaptability within teams and the importance of rethinking traditional HR approaches and embracing new frameworks to better support employees in this rapidly shifting landscape. I am immensely grateful to my employer at the time Airtel Uganda Limited for the opportunity to participate in such a forward-thinking event.
Andinda Doreen SPHR/PHRI have had the pleasure of attending the East Africa HR Symposium by Rise and Learn in both Mombasa (2021) and Arusha(2022), honestly this has been an absolute game-changer. The networking here isn’t your usual business card shuffle—it’s about forging meaningful connections for me these connections have genuinely accelerated my career and broadened my horizons. What really makes this symposium stand out is the laser focus of the organizers. The event organisers are incredibly intentional about curating panellists and topics that hit the nail on the head for what’s relevant today. These sessions are packed with insights that are not just relevant but highly actionable, addressing the real challenges we face in our organizations. For HR professionals and business leaders alike, the East African HR Symposium isn’t just an event; it’s an essential experience! Whether you’re looking to refine your strategies, inspire your team, or just keep your finger on the pulse of current trends, this symposium delivers in spades. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to elevate their professional game don’t miss out!
Mercy Njoroge
If you are looking for a high impact and focused HR and leadership solutions provider, look no further than to Rise and Learn Global Ltd. Their unique programs including the East Africa HR Symposium are engaging, very informative, insightful, futuristic, and practical. The diverse thought Leaders that they engage never disappoint and provide the much-needed global perspective on HR matters. They are up to date with current trends and most importantly strive to provide their clients with important predictions on the future, as it may impact on people management. I have always left the sessions refreshed and empowered”
Jacinta Lwanga Head of Human Resources – Consolidated bank