From Kibera to global honour: Odede wins 2025 Nelson Mandela Prize for community leadership
From the narrow, bustling lanes of Kibera to the global stage of the United Nations, Kennedy Odede’s path is a powerful testament to how hope, resilience, and grassroots action can change not just one life but millions.
Once a young boy living with the harsh realities of street life, Odede has spent his life turning those challenges into opportunities that uplift thousands of people across Kenya.
Odede’s work through Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) began with a simple idea: he saved part of his wages from factory work to buy a football, hoping to bring his neighbours together.
That small act grew into a movement that now serves over 2.4 million people in 68 locations, offering clean water, free education for girls, healthcare, and a program to support survivors of gender-based violence.
Spirit of unity and possibility
“This year’s Mandela Prize winners embody the spirit of unity and possibility – reminding us how we all have the power to shape stronger communities and a better world,” said United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, who will present the award on Nelson Mandela International Day, July 18.
Odede shares this global honour with Brenda Reynolds, a Canadian advocate who has dedicated decades to Indigenous rights and mental health.
Together, they represent a powerful legacy of leadership, humility, and service.
Growing up in Kibera, Odede faced many hardships but never lost sight of the potential within his community.
His story is not just about personal success but about showing that change can come from within when people are given the tools and leadership to transform their lives.
International recognition
SHOFCO’s impact goes beyond services; it mobilises communities through the SHOFCO Urban Network, empowering over two million Kenyans to lead change locally.
Odede’s work has also gained international recognition, earning him a place on Time magazine’s 2024 list of 100 Most Influential People and platforms such as the World Economic Forum and the Obama Foundation.
The Nelson Mandela Prize, awarded every five years since 2014, honours individuals whose life work reflects Mandela’s commitment to human rights and unity.
Odede’s achievement shines as a beacon of hope, proving that even the most challenging beginnings can lead to global impact when fueled by courage and determination.
Once a young boy living with the harsh realities of street life, Odede has spent his life turning those challenges into opportunities that uplift thousands of people across Kenya.
Odede’s work through Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) began with a simple idea: he saved part of his wages from factory work to buy a football, hoping to bring his neighbours together.
That small act grew into a movement that now serves over 2.4 million people in 68 locations, offering clean water, free education for girls, healthcare, and a program to support survivors of gender-based violence.
Spirit of unity and possibility
“This year’s Mandela Prize winners embody the spirit of unity and possibility – reminding us how we all have the power to shape stronger communities and a better world,” said United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, who will present the award on Nelson Mandela International Day, July 18.
Odede shares this global honour with Brenda Reynolds, a Canadian advocate who has dedicated decades to Indigenous rights and mental health.
Together, they represent a powerful legacy of leadership, humility, and service.
Growing up in Kibera, Odede faced many hardships but never lost sight of the potential within his community.
His story is not just about personal success but about showing that change can come from within when people are given the tools and leadership to transform their lives.
International recognition
SHOFCO’s impact goes beyond services; it mobilises communities through the SHOFCO Urban Network, empowering over two million Kenyans to lead change locally.
Odede’s work has also gained international recognition, earning him a place on Time magazine’s 2024 list of 100 Most Influential People and platforms such as the World Economic Forum and the Obama Foundation.
The Nelson Mandela Prize, awarded every five years since 2014, honours individuals whose life work reflects Mandela’s commitment to human rights and unity.
Odede’s achievement shines as a beacon of hope, proving that even the most challenging beginnings can lead to global impact when fueled by courage and determination.
Kibera
SHOFCO
Kennedy Odede
United Nations Nelson Mandela Prize
Shining Hope for Communities
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