The International Youth Fellowship Celebrates 8th Graduation Ceremony in Nairobi

By John Toris

Nairobi, Kenya – June 24, 2025

Over 5,000 young Kenyans were today awarded certificates during the 8th Graduation Ceremony of the International Youth Fellowship (IYF) Weekend Academy, marking a milestone in youth empowerment through mindset education and practical skills training.

PHOTO:PS for the State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, Fikirini Jacobs and  Margaret Kiogora, Chief Executive Officer of The President’s Award - Kenya amongest other guests during the 8th Graduation of the International Youth Fellowship

Held at the IYF Kenya grounds, the ceremony attracted top government officials, partners, and parents who praised the transformative impact of the program. Among the speakers was Margaret Kiogora, Chief Executive Officer of The President’s Award - Kenya, who commended the growth of IYF and its role in nurturing the nation’s youth. “My memory goes back to when we used to be in a hall, graduating about a thousand young people. When I stand here and see the way the numbers have grown, I can only appreciate the chairman, Mr. Johan Kim, for this success,” Kiogora remarked.

Highlighting the alignment between the President’s Award and IYF, she emphasized that both institutions focus on character and mindset development. “We are very big on character development, and I know this institution is very big on mindset. I believe the two go hand in hand,” she added, noting that their partnership with IYF is now formalized to support youth aged 14 to 24 through skills, service, physical fitness, and adventure-based learning.

PHOTO: Chairman of the IYF Kenya Rev. Yohan Kim delivering his keynote address during the 8th Graduation Ceremony of the International Youth Fellowship Graduands 

Rev. Yohan Kim, Chairman of IYF Kenya, delivered a heartfelt speech rooted in his own personal transformation.“It wasn’t easy for you to go through these three months of training, but you finally made it. I hope none of you just leave these skills behind,” he told the graduates.“Even me, I wasn’t a good student. I grew up in the U.S. and even spent time in prison. But what changed my life was the shift in mindset I got from IYF. Now I am here leading this organization and seeing lives transformed.”

He urged graduates to embrace their failures as stepping stones to growth, encouraging them to rise again each time they fall.“Don’t fear mistakes. You just have to stand up again,” Kim said, drawing cheers from the crowd.“Yes, skills and education are important, but without the right mindset, we go nowhere.”

PHOTO: PS for the State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy Hon. Fikirini Jacobs, representing CS Salim Mvurya during the 8th Graduation Ceremony of IYF 

Hon. Salim Mvurya, Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, was represented by Principal Secretary Fikirini Jacobs, who read his speech and lauded IYF as a benchmark for public-private youth development initiatives.“This graduation is more than awarding certificates. It is a celebration of growth, resilience, and transformation,” said Jacobs.“IYF has become a model of true empowerment equipping youth with market-ready skills and instilling values that build character.”

He highlighted the government's continued investment in youth through programs, which connects youth to certification, funding, and entrepreneurial support. He encouraged graduates to leverage the skills and opportunities available under initiatives like Talanta Hela.“Today, we are not simply making announcements we are celebrating a beginning. Your sacrifice of weekends has borne fruits. You've gained clarity, confidence, and a deeper sense of direction,” Jacobs told the graduates.


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Kenya Diaspora Alliance and KDA Welfare Association Host Impactful 4th Annual Social & Business Networking Event

Image
Nairobi, Kenya – The Kenya Diaspora Alliance (KDA) and the KDA Welfare Association (KWA) hosted the highly anticipated 4th Annual Kenya Diaspora/KWA Social & Business Networking Event on January 2nd, 2025, at the Bomas of Kenya in Nairobi. The event brought together Kenyan diaspora members from around the world, offering a platform to network, share experiences, and discuss how their collective efforts can advance both their personal interests and the development of Kenya. This year’s event attracted a diverse group of participants from various countries, including South Africa, the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Botswana. Local entrepreneurs and professionals also joined the diaspora, creating a vibrant environment focused on building connections and collaborations aimed at strengthening business ties and supporting the nation’s growth. Notable organizations such as ICEA Lion and Britam Asset Management were key partners at this year...
Read more

New Generation Aspirants Unveil Youth-Led Roadmap for a New Kenya

Image
By James Nyaigoti Kenya’s emerging crop of youthful leaders has today  launched a bold political movement aimed at reimagining the country’s future through youth-led leadership, unity, and structural reform. Under the banner New Generation Aspirants (NGA), the diverse coalition of young political hopefuls from across the country presented a unified roadmap for national renewal and transformation ahead of the 2027 general elections. The movement, dubbed "The New Generation Aspirants Youth Led Roadmap for a New Kenya", drew hundreds of aspirants ranging from grassroots to presidential contenders. Central to the day’s activities was the signing of the Ufungamano Declaration a document committing the coalition to a just, inclusive, and people-centered leadership agenda. “This is our moment” Lavani Miller, co-convener of the NGA forum, delivered a passionate call to action: “We are tired of the status quo. We are tired of a government that continually sidelines its you...
Read more

Senator Tabitha Mutinda Brings Warmth and Support to the Elderly at Kariobangi Cheshire Home

Image
By Steve El Sabai  In a remarkable show of empathy and servant leadership, Senator Tabitha Mutinda on Thursday visited the Kariobangi Cheshire Home for the Elderly, located in Embakasi North Constituency. Her visit was marked by heartfelt interactions with the elderly residents, during which she not only listened to their stories but also extended generous support through the donation of essential foodstuffs. A tireless advocate for youth and women empowerment, Senator Mutinda underscored the importance of community-centered leadership and the need to uphold the dignity of senior citizens. Her visit served as a powerful reminder that acts of compassion, no matter how simple, carry the power to uplift and unite. “Sharing is caring,” Senator Mutinda remarked, as she distributed food items to the residents—many of whom expressed joy and gratitude for the thoughtful gesture. Her visit reflects a deep sense of responsibility and dedication to inclusive governance...
Read more