Celebrating Purpose Driven Leadership
The Top Purpose-Driven Leaders in Kenya Awards honors 25 trailblazers who are shaping the future with their commitment to societal transformation. On Jamhuri Day, we celebrate leadership that goes beyond the corporate world, championing progress in governance, gender equality, and youth advancement.
Learn MoreBeyond Recognition
Igniting a movement of leaders committed to driving positive societal impact in Kenya
Addressing Challenges
Honoring those tackling economic inequality, climate change, gender issues, and governance
Fostering Collaboration
Uniting like-minded leaders to spark innovation and inspire the next generation of changemakers
These awards go beyond mere recognition, catalyzing a powerful movement of purpose-driven leaders in Kenya. By celebrating those who address critical societal challenges with sustainable solutions, we’re fostering a collaborative ecosystem that ignites innovation and inspires future changemakers.
2024 Guest of Honor: Prof. Kivutha Kibwana
Professor Kivutha Kibwana, a respected leader known for visionary public service and commitment to sustainable social change, graces the Purpose-Driven Leaders Awards as our esteemed Guest of Honor. As a former governor and acclaimed academic, Prof. Kibwana has been a tireless advocate for justice, education, and governance reforms in Kenya.
⚖️ Justice Advocate
Champion for legal reforms and social justice in Kenya
📚 Academic Leader
Esteemed scholar contributing to education and governance
🫂 Inspirational Figure
Inspiring leaders across sectors for lasting transformation
Prof. Kibwana’s lifelong dedication to leadership and governance reforms aligns perfectly with our awards’ values. His work on devolution stands as a significant contribution to Kenya’s governance system, inspiring leaders to drive systemic change for societal benefit.
”Leadership is not just about titles, it’s about contributing to the greater good of society.” said Prof. Kibwana. His speech at the awards dinner emphasized the critical role of leaders—whether in governance, corporate leadership, or community service—in creating a just, sustainable future.
Prof. KibwanaReflections on Leadership and Governance
2024 Top Purpose-Driven Leaders Awardees
Introducing the 25 awardees of the 2024 Top Purpose-Driven Leaders Award.
Betty Kibaara
Betty is an advocate for transforming food systems in Africa, focusing on school feeding programs, regenerative agriculture, and sustainable innovations like frass fertilizer from Black Soldier Fly larvae. She holds advanced degrees in agricultural economics and agribusiness and is dedicated to addressing food security, climate resilience, and nutrition challenges through partnerships and impactful initiatives.
Caroline Mukiira
Caroline is a pioneer in digital transformation and innovation across public, private, and non-profit sectors. As IBM East Africa's first female general manager, she leverages technologies like AI, blockchain, and cloud computing to drive cognitive enterprises and economic development. Passionate about bridging digital skills gaps, she supports initiatives like SkillsBuild, and her career highlights technology's potential for sustainable growth and societal change.
Caroline Njuki
Caroline Njuki focuses on promoting sustainable livelihoods and inclusion for vulnerable populations, including refugees and marginalized communities. She has contributed significantly to Kenya's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy and the Workforce Readiness for the Digital Economy Program, equipping refugees and host communities with market-relevant, digital, and entrepreneurial skills to enhance employment opportunities and economic inclusion.
Dorothy Ooko
Dorothy Ooko is a leader in digital transformation in Africa, transitioning from teaching French to corporate communications. She has led impactful initiatives like Google's Digital Skills for Africa and promotes local digital content. A multilingual professional with degrees in Literature, French, and Strategic Management, Dorothy also teaches Google's Search Inside Yourself program, emphasizing mindfulness and emotional intelligence. She champions lifelong learning, creativity, and empowering African communities online.
Dr. Angela Gichaga
Dr. Angela Gichaga collaborates with global ministries to build resilient, sustainably financed primary and community health systems. With experience in the public sector, NGOs, academia, and consulting, she holds a medical degree, a Master's in Health Economics and Policy, and a Fellowship in Public Sector Management. Formerly a clinician, health administrator, and policymaker in Kenya's Ministry of Health, she led teams, developed national strategies, and advanced health financing initiatives.
Dr. Jemimah Njuki
Dr. Jemimah Njuki leads global initiatives to promote women's economic rights and opportunities, focusing on decent jobs, asset accumulation, and gender-responsive policies. Previously, as Director for Africa at IFPRI, she drove transformative policy change. With over 20 years of experience in gender research and women's empowerment in Africa and Asia, she has published extensively on gendered food systems and co-edited key books on the subject. She holds a PhD in Development Studies and is the Editor of the Journal of Gender, Agriculture, and Food Security.
Dr. Keith Dindi
Dr. Keith Dindi, a Kenyan cardiothoracic surgeon at Tenwek Mission Hospital, specializes in treating congenital and rheumatic heart diseases, focusing on underprivileged rural populations. With advanced training, including a fellowship in Australia, he returned to Kenya to address critical gaps in cardiothoracic care. His transformative work includes life- saving surgeries for patients unable to afford care elsewhere, alongside efforts to raise awareness and build capacity in cardiac care to enhance health outcomes in the region.
Francis Mego
Francis Meyo, Busara's first Engagement Director and later its first CEO from the Global South, specializes in health and digital innovation using behavioral design. He leads transformative projects like increasing Oral PrEP uptake by partnering with organizations to test and scale reproductive health technologies for African girls, young women, and female sex workers. Passionate about empowering others, he drives innovative solutions to benefit underserved populations.
Grace Waweru
Grace Waweru is a business leader with over 15 years of experience in advertising, specializing in purpose-driven marketing campaigns focused on sustainability and community impact. She has led successful projects such as Unilever’s global Covid-19 hygiene campaign, reaching 200 million people, and the "Love Shouldn’t Hurt" anti-GBV campaign in Zimbabwe, which aimed at changing perpetrators' behavior. Grace is also a passionate mentor, supporting initiatives like Greenland Girls School, which helps teen mothers continue their education. Her leadership continues to shape organizations and communities alike.
Jeff Schon
Jeff Schon is the CEO and Co-Founder of Akili Network, which launched Akili Kids!, Kenya's first free-to-air children's TV channel, in 2020. The channel has become a leading platform, reaching millions of children and families with educational content in multiple languages. Jeff has a successful career in television and educational media, producing award-winning content such as the Emmy-winning Peep and the Big Wide World. He has held leadership roles at Scholastic, Living Books, and Hearst Entertainment, and his work continues to influence Kenya’s youth and creative industries.
Joe Sunday
With over 20 years of experience, he has held leadership roles in corporate communications and sustainability across various industries. Previously, Joe worked with Diageo, Population Services International, and Ogilvy. At Unilever, he leads initiatives like the TRANSFORM program, which helps small and medium enterprises tackle environmental challenges and improve livelihoods in Africa. His work is focused on driving sustainable growth and fostering innovation to address global challenges.
June Gachui
June Gachui is a renowned Kenyan entertainer with nearly three decades of experience in performance, storytelling, and live entertainment. She is a versatile artist, excelling in singing, acting, voiceovers, and bilingual MC/hosting services. Known for her soulful, authentic performances, June coined the genre #NyummyMusic, reflecting the emotional experience she hopes to convey through her music. With a passion for music and theatre, June has built a successful career blending her artistic talents with skills gained from her corporate experience, making her work both professional and profitable while providing entertainment and stress relief.
Nancy Muhoya
Nancy Muhoya is the Regional Managing Partner of EY East Africa and Country Managing Partner for EY Kenya, with nearly 19 years of experience in assurance. She is a respected leader known for her client service and business growth in Africa. Nancy made history as the first woman to lead an EY cluster in Africa and advocates for gender equality, unconscious bias awareness, and empowerment. She mentors female executives and is recognized as one of Africa’s Top 100 women CEOs (2021) and a Top40Under40 Women Award recipient (2016). Nancy is also a sought-after speaker and thought leader on leadership and the future of work.
Pastor George Macharia
Rev. George Macharia is the founder and lead pastor of City Lighters Church, which has grown from a small gathering of seven people to a thriving congregation of over a thousand members. He is known for his dynamic preaching style, inspiring Christians to embrace their God-given destinies and challenging traditional mindsets. Rev. Macharia’s passion for the cause of Christ and his commitment to building the church continue to impact lives both within and outside of City Lighters Church.
Pius Muchiri
Pius Muchiri is the Managing Director of Nabo Capital, a Pan- African investment firm. With over 12 years of experience in investment management, he has led the firm’s mission to empower individuals and institutions across Africa. Pius is a CFA Charterholder, CPA, and holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Nairobi. He is also a Fellow of the Archbishop Desmond Tutu Leadership Fellowship. Pius focuses on enhancing financial literacy and equipping Africans with investment skills to break cycles of poverty.
Racheal Wanyoike
Racheal Wanyoike focuses on sustainability and development across six countries. She has a background in law and a Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development, with experience as a fund manager at KPMG and advisor on climate and renewable energy at Camco Clean Energy. At Solidaridad, she empowers smallholder farmers, particularly women, by linking them to markets and climate financing. Racheal is also a board member of CREAW Kenya and advocates for gender inclusivity in leadership and value chains.
Rita Kavashe
Rita Kavashe is the Chair and Managing Director of Isuzu East Africa Ltd, the largest motor vehicle assembler in the region. She has a 27-year career with General Motors, becoming the first Kenyan Managing Director in 2011 and overseeing the company's transition to Isuzu in 2017. Rita has held leadership roles in sales and marketing in Kenya and South Africa and completed leadership programs, including at Harvard Business School. She holds degrees from Moi University and the University of Nairobi and is a certified executive coach. Rita also serves on several boards and received the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) in 2017 for her exceptional service.
Rev.Truphosa Kwale- Sumba
Rev. Truphosa Kwale-Sumba is the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration at St. Paul's University, Kenya. She has been instrumental in integrating practical experiences, such as exchange programs and industrial attachments, into the university’s academic curriculum. Rev. Truphosa emphasizes aligning education with industry demands and plays a key role in enhancing the university’s financial and administrative functions, helping it adapt to modern educational and ethical standards.
Ronald Osumba
Robert is an experienced leader with over 20 years in the private sector, public service, and entrepreneurship. He holds a Business Management degree from Moi University and is pursuing an MBA in Digital Transformation at IE University. Robert has worked with African political leaders at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change and founded iGov Africa, creating over 100,000 jobs through innovation and partnerships. He also chairs the Youth Enterprise Development Fund and the Kenya Climate Innovation Centre Consultancy, focusing on empowering communities and delivering sustainable solutions.
Sheena Raikundalia
Sheena Raikundalia is the Chief Growth Officer at Kuza One,an agri-tech company focused on digitizing the agriculture value chain. With over 16 years of experience in legal, financial services, and impact investment sectors in Europe and Africa, she brings a wealth of expertise to her current role. Sheena has a strong passion for Africa's potential and has developed an extensive network within the government, private sector, and among local tech entrepreneurs. Before her role at kuza One, she worked as the Coutry Director of the UK-kenya Tech Hub.
Tonee Ndung’u
Tonee Ndung'u is a celebrated entrepreneur, speaker, and author, known for founding Kytabu, a leading digital education company, and Nailab, a pioneering startup incubator. His work has advanced education accessibility and social finance across Africa, including launching Tribbe Nation in 2020 to revolutionize group savings for Gen Z. An Eisenhower Fellow and award-winning innovator, Tonee inspires progress with his mantra: Show up, Innovate, and Challenge the Status Quo. champions innovation and progress with his guiding mantra: Show up, Innovate, and Challenge the Status Quo.
Waihiga Mwaura
Waihiga Mwaura is a prominent Kenyan journalist and BBC News presenter, currently hosting Focus on Africa. He began his career at Nation Media Group and later worked at Citizen TV, where he earned accolades for his storytelling and versatility. Mwaura hosted shows like Power Breakfast and Zinduka, and won the Komla Dumor Award in 2018. Known for covering underreported stories, particularly on climate change and technology, he has become a key figure in reshaping global perceptions of Africa.
Wahu Kagwi
Wahu Kagwi is a renowned Kenyan musician, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, celebrated for her hit songs like Sitishiki, Sweet Love, and Ngara. Known for her fusion of pop, R&B, and Afrobeat, she has garnered a strong fan base. Beyond music, Wahu advocates for women's empowerment and supports youth-focused charitable causes. She is also a successful entrepreneur in fashion and wellness. As a mother and role model, Wahu balances her career with family life and continues to inspire in both the entertainment and business sectors in Kenya.
Kidogo early Childhood Centres
Kidogo Early Childhood Centres is a social enterprise providing quality, affordable childcare in underserved Kenyan communities. Its mission is to ensure equal educational opportunities for children from low-income families through play-based learning and well-trained caregivers, aiming to break the cycle of poverty and promote educational equity.
In the Spotlight: Media, Press & Insights
Media Coverage
Discover how top media outlets featured the Top Purpose-Driven Leaders in Kenya Awards. Read about Esther Mwaniki’s transformative leadership in The Kenya Times.
Dive deeper into each awardee’s journey and ongoing impact through our dedicated blog series. Learn more about the Purpose Driven Leaders Awards and their significance
Stay updated on the latest news, insights, and stories surrounding the Top Purpose-Driven Leaders in Kenya Awards. Explore our comprehensive media coverage, press releases, and blog posts to gain a deeper understanding of the event’s impact and the inspiring journeys of our awardees.