Laura's Briefs: Recent Episodes
Laura
The rise of the Gen Z movement in Kenya echoes historical patterns of youthful activism. From the Mau Mau uprising to the push for multi-party democracy, young people have always been at the forefront of change. My guest, Professor Israel Kodiaga, a renowned political analyst in Africa, delves into why the emergence of this new wave of youth activism is both expected and unique. Historically, Kenyan youth movements have often faded after initial fervor. But can the current Gen Z-led movement defy this trend?
Professor Kodiaga explores the unprecedented engagement of apolitical Gen Zs in civic matters, driven by the rapid dissemination of information through technology. Discover his insights on whether this movement can sustain its momentum and enact lasting change.
Note: This interview was recorded before the recent dissolution of the former cabinet, and before the leadership turned down a pay rise awarded to them.
Isaac Kwaku is an international political economy advisor who is keen on powering developing economies by creating opportunities, catalysing conversation, and connecting capital. He is the Founder and Principal of Botho Emerging Markets Group, and has over two decades of experience working in 20 markets across the world. Isaac has an impressive track record in investment facilitation, strategy consulting, and policy advisory. He is also an angel investor and impatient about growth in Africa. On the podcast, he talks about our personal responsibility as Africans, a leadership that has no love for its citizens, and why youth on the continent urgently need a lifeline.
We all see things differently. The liberty to be able to explore this creatively is what we are hoping to see as the world continues to open up. Migwa Nthiga is a commercial and documentary photography. He explains to me what this means and what he learns about everyday as he makes magic with his work.
Intuition, mysticism, numbers, ancestry… having studied microbiology Vivian Taabu, better known as Swiry Nyar Kano is passionate about the mystic secrets of life and people. She is keen to point anyone who listens towards their special greatness and place in life. We had a candid chat about being Africa, getting un-stuck, her thoughts on LGBTQ and afro-futurism.
With more than 30 years experience in the hospitality industry, Daniela Cellini has carved a niche for herself in setting up funky new restaurant spaces - more recently in Nairobi. If you have visited spots like Mawimbi, Gogol Pizza and the just opened Samaki Samaki - you will have enjoyed her handiwork in one form or another. This episode was recorded at Samaki Samaki (in case you hear us using the word 'here' a lot). Daniela talks about how the projects come about and the emerging foodie scene in the city. This is our first episode for the Woman In Business series.
Bryan Ngala Mwendwa aka Dr Reign, is training to be a paediatrician, even though if he likes he could be a full time musician, or an influencer, or a bit of an activist. But he is all rolled into one - because all of those aspects are an expression of who he is. He is a wonderful guy, and he speaks with truth. We chatted about youth, Africa, life as a musician and just how hard it was for doctors when the COVID pandemic hit. We have barely scratched the surface. Welcome to this episode.
At 27, Rosalie Akinyi, better known as The Only Rosa, is definitely not your average girl. She is one of many who has decided to be true to herself, and the universe seemed to have conspired with her to unearth a ball of talents that only she seems to possess. Beauty, brains and little bit of body-building on the side. What's not to love. Listen to our completely impromptu chat, and let me know what stood out for you.
The future of this country is the young, the future of the world is Africa. So how we nurture them now is critical in shaping what happens the very next 10 years. These are things several people are passionate about, including one Ronnie Osumba. Remember him? Entrepreneur, techie, and fiery about Kenya and Africa. Ronnie and I had a long chat about the youth and how we as adults need to work harder at connecting with them.