What they would tell you.

I met Atieno at a pivotal point in my career. I had reached a place where I knew I was ready for more, and I had set my sights on becoming a Managing Director. What I needed wasn't someone to simply encourage me. I needed someone who could help me see what was possible, challenge how I was thinking, and help me navigate the transition from being a strong leader to operating at the next level.

Atieno became that person for me.

What makes Atieno different is her ability to see both where you are and where you have the potential to go. She helped me think more intentionally about my career, my leadership presence, and how I positioned myself for opportunities. She challenged me to recognize the value I brought to the table and, just as importantly, to make sure others could see it too.

Her guidance was practical and personal. She understood that advancing into executive leadership isn't only about working harder or delivering great results. It's about understanding your strengths, building the right relationships, expanding your influence, and being willing to step into opportunities that stretch you.

"I ultimately achieved my goal of becoming a Managing Director, and Atieno was part of that journey." But her impact went beyond helping me reach a title. She helped me become more intentional about the kind of leader I wanted to be once I got there.

Years later, I still value her perspective and the way she invests in people. That is why I'm excited to see her bring that same gift to advoca•C. She has an ability to recognize potential, challenge people with care, and help them turn ambition into intentional action. I experienced that firsthand, and I know many others will benefit from having her in their corner.

I first met Atieno over ten years ago when she recruited me as a junior at Prairie View A&M University for an internship at Accenture. What started as a recruiting connection grew into something much more meaningful. A mentorship and working partnership that has shaped the trajectory of my entire career.

What stands out most about Atieno is her ability to see potential in people before they see it in themselves. She's not just an encourager, she's a realist. She meets people where they are, honestly assesses where they can go, and gives them a tangible plan to get there. She listens deeply, and when she speaks, it counts.

Our relationship didn't stay in the background. We worked side-by-side on projects, and recruited the next generation of PVAMU talent together. Through every season, she showed up as a leader, a colleague, and a mentor.

What makes Atieno different is that she doesn't just open doors. She walks through them with you. She identified a stretch opportunity for me on a project that pushed me beyond my comfort zone, and then stayed present throughout, offering real-time feedback that helped me grow in the moment rather than waiting until it was too late to matter. That's rare. Most leaders point the way; Atieno actually invests in the journey.

Working with Atieno will stretch you. She holds you to a high standard, pushes you when you want to coast, and is honest when honesty is hard. But everything she does comes from a place of genuine care. Where I am today, as a professional at a top firm, is a direct reflection of the investment she made in me.

Atieno is proof that great leaders don't just climb. They bring people with them. And the fact that after more than a decade, we're still friends, says everything about who she is.

I had the privilege of working alongside Atieno Obala for several years, particularly through a national technology and innovation program that she led before transitioning leadership to me. During that time, I learned a tremendous amount by watching, listening to, and partnering with her.

Atieno has a genuine passion for developing others and helping people navigate their career journeys with greater clarity and confidence. Her strong partnership with Prairie View A&M University and commitment to creating opportunities for emerging talent have made a meaningful impact on countless individuals, including myself.

What stands out most about Atieno is her ability to truly listen, build meaningful relationships, and provide thoughtful guidance that helps others see their path forward more clearly. She brings a unique combination of experience, insight, and authenticity to every interaction.

I'm incredibly grateful for the professional relationship we've built over the years, but even more grateful that along the way, that relationship grew into a genuine friendship. I'm excited to see her continue doing what she does so naturally; helping others grow, find clarity, and move forward with confidence.

I've known Atieno for most of my career at Accenture, first as a mentor and ultimately as one of my strongest advocates and trusted advisors. Her guidance has shaped how I approach my career, how I lead, and how I invest in others.

What has always stood out about Atieno is her candor and genuine investment in people. She challenges you to think bigger, gives you the perspective you need to navigate difficult decisions, and has never been afraid to tell me what I needed to hear.

What means the most is that her support never ended with a role or title. Years later, we remain close, and she continues to coach, challenge, and advocate for me.

I'm incredibly grateful for the impact she has had on my career and proud to see her bring that same commitment to others through advoca•C.