This monthly series gives you a behind-the-scenes look at A Day in the Life of a Comms Professional.
Meet Carol Rugege, a Rwandan professional who spent the first 28 years of her life in the United States. Her career spans multiple industries, including education, commodities exchange, agriculture, media, and telecommunications. Carol currently works at Airtel Rwanda and is pursuing an MBA at the African Leadership University. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a mother of two with a strong commitment to lifelong learning and creating positive impact within her community.
What habits or routines help you get ready for work?
At this stage of my life and career, everything goes into my calendar. I have separate calendars for my personal and professional life, and if something isn’t on my calendar, it practically doesn’t exist. I schedule everything—from meetings and exercise sessions to lunch breaks and coffee chats with friends.
Every morning, I review both calendars to map out my day, prepare for meetings, and make any necessary adjustments. I also set multiple reminders—typically 24 hours, 2 hours, and 30 minutes before an event. It’s not because I’m naturally organised; it’s because managing multiple responsibilities requires a system that keeps me on track and prevents last-minute surprises.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
Honestly, no two days are ever the same. My role at Airtel Rwanda spans corporate communications, government relations, corporate social responsibility, and internal communications. That means I could be writing executive speeches, preparing for a press conference, managing stakeholder relationships, coordinating community projects, or working with HR on internal communications, all in the same day.
Most mornings start with reviewing my calendar and scanning the media landscape. I read the news, monitor trends, engage with communications communities, and stay updated on what’s happening in the industry. Throughout the day, I might draft press releases, develop stakeholder communication plans, oversee CSR initiatives, visit retail outlets across the country for compliance checks, create internal communication materials, or collaborate with marketing teams on campaigns. It’s a dynamic role that requires adaptability, strategic thinking, and strong relationship-building skills.
What tools or apps do you use most for your job, and why?
Excel is one of the tools I use most, particularly for budgeting and reporting related to corporate social responsibility projects. It helps me track spending and measure outcomes effectively.
I also rely heavily on Microsoft Word for writing reports, speeches, and press releases, and PowerPoint for presentations. In addition, I use AI tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity. These tools help me enhance my work, generate ideas, improve campaigns, and find more efficient ways to approach projects and events.
If you weren’t in Communications, what career path would you explore?
I’ve always been passionate about beauty. Growing up, I wanted to be a stylist or beautician, and that interest has stayed with me throughout my life. I currently run a small online beauty business called Cocolei Cosmetics, where I sell beauty products sourced from the United States.
More recently, through my MBA journey, I’ve been exploring opportunities in organic hair care products. I’ve also always loved weddings, so another dream would be to own a wedding dress boutique. Ideally, I would combine both passions by creating a space where clients could access beauty services and shop for wedding dresses all in one place.
What’s your favourite way to relax after work?
I love going on long walks. Walking helps me clear my mind, process my thoughts, and decompress after a busy day. Sometimes I leave my phone behind completely so I’m not distracted by notifications or calls. Other times, I’ll listen to music or a podcast while I walk.
Walking is also part of my commitment to maintaining good health. I’m part of a walking challenge group with friends, family members, and cousins, where we hold one another accountable for our fitness goals. Beyond the physical benefits, these communities provide encouragement, support, and a space to celebrate wins or navigate difficult days together.
What’s a fun fact about you?
I’m absolutely obsessed with music and I love to sing. Music has always been my safe space. During university, I performed in talent shows, sang with my sorority sisters, participated in a travelling choir ensemble, and even performed at weddings.
While I don’t perform as often these days, music remains a huge part of who I am. If I were ever to get a tattoo, it would probably be something music-related because it has played such an important role throughout my life.
