How to upskill the smart way through peer learning

The best way to progress in your career is by continuously building on your skills. There are many ways to do this, some choose to attend traditional classes, while others take advantage of online resources.

But another powerful, often overlooked method is peer learning, the simple act of learning from those around you. It's an approach that not only builds real-world knowledge but also comes at no financial cost ,just your time and willingness to engage.

Mtaa Wangu spoke with street photographers Michael Kamande and John Kamau, who have found immense value in learning from their peers.
“Tech is evolving every day. Beyond poses and camera settings, we place a lot of importance on learning from each other, especially when it comes to the software we use to improve our editing and overall output,” says Kamande.

Kamau adds that the learning doesn’t stop with them.
“We have also been able to train others who are interested in photography and videography,” he says.

The two are just a fraction of the many people embracing peer learning. What might otherwise cost hundreds or even thousands of shillings to learn is often passed on from one person to another, driven by goodwill and shared passion.

Chris Ngotho, who works in the cereal business, points out that sometimes, the best lessons don’t come from a classroom.
“You don’t always need to sit through a formal session to learn something new. You just need to observe,” he says.
“In my area of work ,soft skills, especially communication and how to approach and treat a client, can make all the difference. These are things you naturally pick up from the best in the game over time.”

To truly benefit from peer learning, Ngotho believes one must have the right mindset.

“You need to be smart enough to spot learning opportunities and acknowledge them. Peer learning may not come with a certificate, so it’s not always easy to show it on a CV. But the truth is, I’d be quicker to hire someone who makes the most of it ,because it shows they can recognize opportunities and grab them,” he says.

Before you turn to a formal teacher or classroom, take a moment to look around you. Are there people within your circle who can help you learn? If so, let that be your first stop. Tap into the knowledge around you and make the most of it.

From there, you can always build on what you’ve learned through the internet, practice, or further study and gradually become the best version of yourself.