In this episode of Breaking the Chain, host Terentia Browne sits down with Tsebo Koena, a Technical Sales Engineer and Business Developer in the renewable energy space, to explore why emotional intelligence should be built early in your career not years later when the pressure of leadership already demands it.
Their conversation uncovers how understanding yourself, your strengths, and your natural tendencies can shift the direction of your career. Tsebo shares how tools like personality assessments and early self-reflection helped him realise he wasn’t only a technical professional; he was someone who thrived in people-driven environments too. That clarity shaped his career path and the way he shows up as a leader today.
They also dive into how emotional intelligence builds confidence. Both Terentia and Tsebo speak openly about how they had to learn how to network, communicate, and put themselves in uncomfortable situations. Through volunteering, mentorship, and practicing courage, they discovered the confidence needed for leadership grows through action.
A standout theme in this episode is Tsebo’s philosophy of “Lift As You Rise,” influenced by Bonang Mohale’s book. He believes success means bringing others with you sharing what you know, opening doors where you can, and becoming the mentor, you once needed. It’s a reminder that emotional intelligence isn’t just internal work; it’s how you impact the people around you.
Listeners will take away simple but powerful insights about building vision, staying grounded during career detours, finding mentors, and practicing the kind of self-awareness that allows you to grow in a meaningful way. This episode challenges you to think beyond titles and really consider who you are becoming as you rise.
If you’re ready to rethink emotional intelligence and how it shapes your career, listen to the full episode of Breaking the Chain here.
