At NKG East Africa, great careers are shaped by more than opportunity alone. They’re built by people who are curious, committed, and willing to keep learning, supported by an environment that encourages them to grow. Victoria’s journey is one example of that.
Victoria Kigo joined NKG East Africa in Kenya as a graduate and, over the past five years, has grown from Trade Administrator to Junior Trader in Uganda, becoming NKG East Africa’s first female coffee trader. Her journey reflects what can happen when potential is recognised, ambition is encouraged, and people are supported to grow professionally.
This International Youth Day, NKG East Africa is celebrating not only what Victoria has achieved, but also what her journey represents for the next generation of coffee professionals. Her story is one the company hopes will encourage more young people, especially young women, to see a future for themselves in coffee trading.
Here’s her story.
Victoria Kigo, Coffee Trader at NKG East Africa
Victoria, what first attracted you to the coffee industry?
Before starting my career in coffee, I knew very little about the industry. Growing up, my exposure was limited to seeing coffee only at the farm level, with little understanding beyond harvesting. After completing my university studies, my first job was as a Trade Administrator in the coffee industry, which opened my eyes to an entirely new world.
I was fascinated by the complexity of the industry, from sourcing and production to quality control, trading, and global markets. That complexity has continued to fuel my curiosity and deepen my desire to understand every stage of the coffee value chain.
You started as a Trade Administrator. At what point did you realise you wanted to become a trader?
Working as a Trade Administrator gave me the opportunity to work closely with traders. Over time, observing their discussions about market movements, pricing decisions, and risk management sparked my curiosity and inspired me to better understand the factors that influence trading decisions.
Was there a defining moment that made you decide to pursue a career in coffee trading?
I wouldn’t say there was one defining moment that influenced my decision. Rather, I found myself craving more of a challenge in my day-to-day work. While working as a Trade Administrator was rewarding, I eventually felt I had become too comfortable.
I tend to thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments where every day presents a new challenge. The risk element in trading has always been what drives me, keeping me on my toes.
Victoria with the NKG East Africa in Addis Ababa for the African Fine Coffees Association (AFCA) Conference 2026
“Very little is truly out of reach. If you’re willing to put in the work, keep learning, and remain persistent, opportunities that once seemed impossible can become achievable.”
Victoria Kigo
Five years after joining NKG East Africa as a graduate, Victoria is now the company’s first female coffee trader. Reflecting on that journey, we asked her what the milestone means to her.
You are the first female trader in East Africa. What does that achievement mean to you personally?
For me, it is a reminder that very little is truly out of reach. If you’re willing to put in the work, keep learning, and remain persistent, opportunities that once seemed impossible can become achievable.
It has also taught me that no role or position is set in stone. We can all challenge expectations, break barriers, and demonstrate why we deserve a seat at the table. Whilst it’s an achievement I’m proud of, I hope it becomes less remarkable over time as more young women pursue careers in coffee trading.
“I hope it becomes less remarkable over time as more young women pursue careers in coffee trading.”
Victoria Kigo
Did you face any challenges entering a role that has traditionally been male-dominated? How did you overcome them?
I wouldn’t say I faced any major challenges entering the role, largely because I was fortunate to have a very supportive manager and an East African team that was welcoming and accommodating. Their support allowed me to focus on learning, developing my skills, and proving myself through my work and contributions.
Stepping into the role also encouraged me to continuously challenge myself, build confidence, and make my voice heard.
Have there been any mentors or colleagues who encouraged you along the way?
Yes, absolutely. I especially attribute my interest in trading to my manager at the time. As a fresh graduate, he played a significant role in shaping my work ethic and entrusted me with opportunities beyond the traditional scope of a Trade Administrator because he recognised my potential.
Equally, my reporting supervisor played an important role in shaping my professional approach and continually encouraged me to dream bigger and believe in my capabilities.
What advice would you give to young people who are just starting their careers in agriculture or coffee?
The coffee industry has so many opportunities to offer, and I would encourage young people starting their careers to be open to learning and asking questions. Be willing to step outside your comfort zone, embrace new opportunities, and take advantage of every chance to learn from those with more experience.
Coffee is such a broad and diverse industry that there’s always something new to learn and discover.
What skills or mindset have helped you grow the most in your career?
I would say having a growth mindset and a genuine curiosity to learn have been the biggest drivers of my development. Throughout my career, I have always been willing to ask questions, seek understanding, and challenge myself to step into areas that were unfamiliar. I believe growth happens when you are open to learning, even when you do not have all the answers.
Another important quality has been my ability to embrace challenges and uncertainty. The trading environment is constantly changing, and being comfortable navigating situations where there is no clear playbook has helped me develop both professionally and personally.
Finally, maintaining integrity in everything I do has been fundamental. In an industry built on relationships, trust and accountability are essential, and I believe these values have played a key role in my journey.
“Through my work, I discovered an entire world behind coffee.”
Victoria Kigo
What opportunities do you think young professionals can find in the coffee industry that they may not be aware of?
I think many young professionals may not realise how broad the coffee industry is and the variety of opportunities it offers beyond production.
Before starting my career, I had a very limited understanding of the industry beyond the farm level. Through my work, I discovered an entire world behind coffee and the many opportunities that exist across the value chain.
I would encourage young professionals to be open-minded, explore the different areas within the industry, and identify the ones that best align with their interests and strengths. One thing about the coffee industry is that there is always a seat at the table for fresh perspectives and new ideas.
“The future of coffee in East Africa will be shaped by the next generation, and I’m excited to be part of that journey.”
Victoria Kigo
What excites you most about the future of coffee in East Africa?
What excites me most about the future of coffee in East Africa is the incredible potential for innovation and growth across the sector. I’m particularly excited to see more young people bringing fresh ideas, new technologies, and different perspectives to an industry that is constantly evolving.
The future of coffee in East Africa will be shaped by the next generation. I believe there is tremendous potential for us to continue transforming the sector, and I’m excited to be part of that journey.
What are you hoping to achieve in your career over the next few years?
Over the next few years, I hope to continue growing as a coffee professional by deepening my understanding of the industry and taking on greater responsibilities within trading.
Beyond my personal growth, I hope to contribute positively to the industry by sharing knowledge, supporting the next generation of coffee professionals, and contributing to the continued growth and transformation of the industry.
If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of career advice, what would it be?
Looking back, I would encourage my younger self to continue nurturing my curiosity and desire to learn. I would remind her not to be afraid to dream big, embrace new challenges, and believe in her potential.
Every experience, effort, and lesson contributes to your growth and helps shape the person you become.
