In this latest feature, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Nadia Abdalla, the dynamic Deputy Minister of ICT, Innovation, and Youth Affairs in Kenya. Nadia, at just 31 years old, embodies the fresh wave of leadership emerging from Kenya, representing a vibrant, youthful perspective in government.

Our conversation started with Nadia’s unique journey to her current role. Born and raised in Mombasa, Nadia pursued her undergraduate studies in Malaysia before heading to Germany for her Master’s degree in Foreign Policy and Cultural Diplomacy. Her international education provided her with a broad perspective, which she brings back to her home country.

Nadia’s appointment as the youngest Deputy Minister came as a surprise, even to her. She recounted the moment she discovered her new role, a story filled with disbelief and excitement. This unexpected leap into high-level government was not just a personal achievement but a significant milestone for young people and marginalized communities in Kenya.

One of the most intriguing parts of our discussion was Nadia’s vision for Kenyan youth. With the median age in Kenya being just 19, she emphasized the importance of engaging the youth in governance and policy-making. Nadia’s Kenya Mimi campaign, which translates to “Kenya is me,” seeks to instill a sense of responsibility and patriotism among young Kenyans, encouraging them to take active roles in shaping their future.

Nadia’s role involves a range of responsibilities, from advising the Minister on policy matters to engaging directly with the youth. She highlighted the strategic importance of ICT and innovation in driving Kenya’s development and the critical need for intergenerational dialogue to ensure that young people are both heard and involved in decision-making processes.

Our conversation also touched on the cultural richness of Kenya, particularly the coastal regions where Nadia is from. She spoke passionately about the diversity in Mombasa, a melting pot of different cultures and traditions, and the unique challenges and opportunities that come with such a background.

One of the key takeaways from our discussion is the importance of visibility and advocacy. Nadia’s proactive approach, from social media engagement to public speaking, has significantly amplified her impact. She encouraged other young leaders to use their platforms to voice their ideas and drive change.

Nadia’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of diverse experiences. As she continues to break barriers, her journey serves as an inspiration for many young people in Kenya and beyond.

To dive deeper into our conversation and gain more insights from Nadia Abdalla, check out the full video. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and updates from around the world by subscribing to our email list.