Day 1 Highlights
The 7th Annual Africa Conference on Social Entrepreneurship (AACOSE7) kicked off with a powerful and inspiring opening day, setting the tone for the transformative discussions and activities that would follow...
The final day of AACOSE7 was dynamic and engaging, with a strong focus on youth empowerment, sustainability, and academic discourse. The day was filled with inspirational speeches, vibrant panel discussions, and practical breakout sessions, culminating in a memorable closing ceremony.
The day began with an inspiring address by Margaret Kiogora, CEO of the National Youth Council. She emphasized the pivotal role of young people in shaping Africa’s future, highlighting that youths constitute 75% of the population and their voices are too significant to overlook. Kiogora asserted that youths are not merely the leaders of tomorrow but the leaders of today, and the future of Africa is in their hands. She urged each young person to seize the opportunity to connect and collaborate, emphasizing that youths are a crucial asset capable of bringing about transformative change in society.
A series of impactful keynote speeches followed, setting the tone for the day’s discussions:
– Other notable keynote speakers included Shazeeb Khairul of YY Ventures, Trevor Ruto from Global Shapers, and Sylvia Baguma of Gold-Youth South Africa, who shared their insights on youth leadership and innovation.
The morning continued with a high-level panel discussion titled “Unleashing Creativity for Zero Unemployment & Poverty: Exploring the Dynamic Landscape of the Youth, Culture, Sports & Arts Innovation.” The session featured:
– Showcases by Antony Ombara of Cradle Art and David Ndinda of Foundation of Hope.
– A keynote speech by Phillip Osano, Center Director at the Stockholm Environmental Institute.
Panelists included:
– Allan Korir from Dance for Charity,
– Henry Wanjala from Kenya Boys Choir,
– Sheba from Alive and Kicking,
– Wabi from Soma Siri.
The afternoon plenary session, “Green Horizons: Zero Carbon Emissions; Exploring Youth Opportunities in Sustainability,” showcased innovative projects:
– Roussoss Demisse from Demifarm,
– Paul Onyango from Virgin Oil,
– Eddie Gitonga from Tech Bin.
Panelists included:
– Vicky Aridi from Making Cents International,
– Glory Lukambo from Vijana Twaweza Kakuma,
– Ashley Kitisya from Laudato Si Africa,
– Kennedy Auma from Catalyst 2030,
– Lennox Omondi from Ecobana.
The session highlighted opportunities for youth in the sustainability sector and the importance of reducing carbon emissions.
