Empowering Social Entrepreneurs: The Journey of AACOSE, Connecting for Collaboration and Impact
In the vibrant heart of Nairobi, where innovation meets social purpose, the Annual Africa Conference on Social Entrepreneurship (AACOSE) was born to foster collaboration, networking, and impactful change. Eager to uncover the origins of AACOSE, we spoke with Br. Jonas Dzinekou, Director of the Institute of Social Transformation and founder of AACOSE. He graciously shared the story of AACOSE’s inception.
Br. Jonas enthusiastically recounted the journey of AACOSE: “The journey of AACOSE takes us back to 2017, fueled by the aspirations of social entrepreneurs in Africa. By 2011, Tangaza University had already started to train, encourage innovations, and empower these entrepreneurs by building their capacity,” he explained.
He detailed how innovations stemming from the program contributed to crafting a new narrative about Africa. This process was pivotal in establishing the storytelling and collaboration DNA of AACOSE. “I believed it was crucial to create a platform for social entrepreneurs to share their stories, inspire others, and connect with impact-driven individuals to amplify their impact. Storytelling has always been a powerful means of communication in Africa; it is a storytelling continent. We can harness the power of stories to inspire further actions for positive change. This is why storytelling and collaboration are embedded in the DNA of AACOSE. Over the past eight years, AACOSE has evolved into a hub of positive stories of change that are shaping Africa,” emphasized Br. Jonas Dzinekou.
AACOSE’s Mission
Every conference has a mission. AACOSE’s mission has always been driven by a singular vision: to empower social entrepreneurs through networking and collaboration. “Each year, our conference becomes a melting pot of ideas, innovations, and partnerships that drive transformative change in communities across Africa and beyond,” says Br. Jonas.
Each conference serves as a catalyst for change, providing a space where ideas can flourish, partnerships can be forged, and sustainable solutions can be developed.
Vijana Twaweza, a CBO in Kakuma specializing in apiary farming, developed a keen interest in waste management after attending AACOSE
AACOSE’s Impacts and Achievements
Over the years, the impact of the AACOSE conference has been profound. From sparking innovative projects to fostering lifelong partnerships, AACOSE is a beacon of hope and opportunity. One success story is that of David, a young social entrepreneur who attended the conference in 2018. There, he met like-minded individuals and formed a partnership that led to the creation of a community-based recycling initiative, now benefiting thousands of residents.
”I formed a partnership with like-minded individuals after attending the AACOSE conference, where we discussed our goal of recycling waste products from our area. Although our primary focus was on fish farming, we aimed to keep the environment clean and create employment opportunities for young people,” says Luundo of Vijana Twaweza, a CBO in Kakuma.
Key achievements of AACOSE include a significant increase in conference attendance, from 300 participants in its first year to over 500 in 2024. Notable partnerships with global organizations have opened doors to new opportunities, while mentorship programs and funding initiatives have supported countless social entrepreneurs in their endeavors. Among the many initiatives inspired and born out of AACOSE is the DRC Social Innovation Summit (DRC-SIS). The Network of Africa Social Enterprises (NASE) was launched in May 2024. This is a network of national social enterprise networks. The current members are Social Enterprise Ethiopia (SEE), Social Enterprise Kenya (SEK), Social Enterprise Ghana (SEG), Reseau National des Entrepreneurs Sociaux (RESCI), and Social Entrepreneurship Forum – Uganda (SEF). NASE has inspired other countries to start building their national networks.
Looking Ahead
AACOSE remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering collaboration and networking. With plans to expand the conference to new regions and introduce innovative programs, the organization is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come.
The journey of AACOSE is a testament to the power of connection and collaboration. It is a story of perseverance, growth, and the unwavering belief that by working together, social entrepreneurs can create a better world for all.
Looking Ahead
AACOSE remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering collaboration and networking. With plans to expand the conference to new regions and introduce innovative programs, the organization is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come.
The journey of AACOSE is a testament to the power of connection and collaboration. It is a story of perseverance, growth, and the unwavering belief that by working together, social entrepreneurs can create a better world for all.
Dieu Eslomwa – a beneficiary of Vijana Twaweza Embracing the present while envisioning a sustainable future with Twaweza Club in Kakuma
Join us at AACOSE on May 14-16, 2025, to connect, learn, and be inspired for action.
