Today, on UN Nelson Mandela International Day, the global community celebrates a remarkable leader whose journey began in the heart of Kibera, one of Africa’s largest informal settlements.
Kennedy Odede, founder of Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) and a 2013 New Voices Senior Fellow at the Aspen Global Innovators Group, has been named a 2025 recipient of the prestigious United Nations Nelson Mandela Prize.
The award, presented by the UN Secretary-General during a ceremony at the General Assembly, recognizes Odede’s tireless efforts to uphold Nelson Mandela’s legacy of peace, dignity, social justice, and equality. Through SHOFCO, Odede has transformed lives in Kenya by empowering marginalized communities with education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Ambassador Ekitela Lokaale, Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the UN in New York, praised Odede’s achievement, stating: “Mr. Kennedy Odede of SHOFCO, Kenya, is the recipient of the 2025 United Nations Nelson Mandela Award alongside Ms. Brenda Reynolds of Canada. The award recognizes Mr. Odede’s work of promoting Nelson Mandela’s legacy through SHOFCO’s empowerment of communities and individuals in Kenya. The Kenya Mission to the UN joins the global community in congratulating him.”
Reflecting on his journey, Odede credited his growth as a leader to the support he received early in his career. “The fellowship helped me understand how to better communicate our vision,” he said.
“Before, I spoke from the heart, but now I could speak with clarity and strategy to people who could support us.”
From his humble beginnings in Kibera to standing on the world stage, Kennedy Odede’s story is a testament to the power of grassroots leadership and unwavering determination.
His recognition with the UN Mandela Prize not only honors his work but also shines a light on the potential within every community to drive lasting change.