Four Kenyans Named to Prestigious Forbes Africa Under 30 List! Forbes Africa has recognized four exceptional young Kenyans as part of their 30 Under 30 list for 2024, celebrating leading entrepreneurs and innovators from across the continent. Making the list from Kenya were Ayushi Chandaria, Arooj Sheikh, Kenneth Njeru, and Alex Mativo.
Ayushi Chandaria | PHOTO Courtesy
Leading the group was 26-year-old Ayushi Chandaria, who created the Design Thinking Program Kenya. Her program utilizes human-centered design and creativity to solve problems in a collaborative way. It is currently being implemented at the United States International University in Nairobi’s Africa Design Thinking Center. Chandaria was acknowledged for applying these techniques to address issues ranging from healthcare to education.
Arooj Sheikh, 28, also made the list as the founder and CEO of Beyond Kenyan Bars, which works to reduce stigma around mental health and create support networks. She launched Africa’s first mental health consumer advocacy group and has fought to reform legislation.
At 25, Kenneth Njeru is the director and founder of Africa Afya Healthcare, a telemedicine start-up extending quality medical services to rural and underserved areas. Through their online platform, patients can book appointments and access care remotely.
The final honoree from Kenya was 27-year-old Alex Mativo. He is the CEO and co-founder of three innovative companies – E-LAB, Nanasi, and Duck – focused on supporting early-stage entrepreneurs and startups. Through investment, accelerator programs and coworking spaces, he empowers new businesses.
Alex Mativo |PHOTO Courtesy
All four Kenyans are under 30 and making huge impacts through their visions. They exemplify the potential of Africa’s youth to drive progress using technology, community-building and new solutions. Their innovations across sectors like health, business and design are helping transform lives and economies.
Through recognizing leaders like Ayushi Chandaria, Arooj Sheikh, Kenneth Njeru and Alex Mativo, Forbes Africa celebrates the talent and promise within the next generation of African thought leaders and change-makers. Their inclusion in the prestigious 30 Under 30 list inspires many more young people across the continent.
