The winners of the first Cannes Young Lions Kenya competition have been announced, with the victors earning the opportunity to represent Kenya at the prestigious Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.
The competition challenged participants to demonstrate their skills in print, design, and digital categories, pushing them to deliver innovative and impactful campaigns.
The gold winners in each category will now embark on an exciting journey to Cannes Lions, where they will compete against the world’s best young creatives.
The jury, comprising industry experts, was impressed by the exceptional quality of work presented, highlighting the depth of talent within Kenya’s creative landscape.
Young Lions Kenya presents an unprecedented opportunity for six of Kenya’s most promising young creatives to compete against the best emerging talent in the world at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in France.
Additionally, one student will attend the Roger Hatchuel Student Academy, ensuring the next generation of Kenyan creatives is nurtured and empowered.
Below are all the winners:
Print category
- Gold: The Vibe Tribe: Kelvin Njoroge & Mercy Maina
- Silver: Kinjal Sheth & Muskaan Shaikh
- Bronze: Schizzo Design: Jabez Wachira & Newton Wachira
Design category
- Gold: Ollie & Lou: Olive Wangari & Louis Lukata
- Silver: Cool Waters: Sylvia Mwihaki & Gathoni Matu
- Bronze: Full Copacity: Kevin Ikua & Victor Maina
Digital category
- Gold: Just Bold: Allen Onduru & George Omukanda
- Silver: Scan Social: Martin Sultan & Susan Wangui
- Bronze: Team Sisi: Arvin Munyiri & Bonface Komo
The competition was sponsored by Kenya Breweries’ flagship brand, Tusker, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to championing Kenyan creativity and self-expression on a global stage, which the brand furthers by way of its Kenya Milele messaging.
“We are incredibly proud of the talent showcased at this year’s Young Lions Kenya competition,” Tusker marketing manager Christine Kariuki said.
“Tusker is committed to fostering creativity and providing platforms for young Kenyans to shine. We believe these winners represent the future of our industry, and we are excited to support them as they take their talent to the global stage.
“It is an honour for Tusker to be part of a programme that lifts up Kenyan creatives and furthers their careers. We are very proud of all of the participants.”
The Young Lions Kenya competition serves as a crucial platform for nurturing the next generation of creative leaders, providing them with invaluable experience and exposure. The event’s success underscores the vibrant and dynamic nature of Kenya’s creative industry.
As a brand deeply rooted in Kenya’s cultural fabric, Tusker has long supported the country’s creative, music, and arts industries. By sponsoring Young Lions Kenya, Tusker continues its mission to provide platforms that empower young talent and elevate Kenya’s creative excellence internationally.
Kariuki added: “Tusker has always been at the heart of Kenya’s creative evolution. Our legacy is built on celebrating and amplifying Kenyan talent, and through Young Lions Kenya, we are proud to open doors for young creatives to showcase their brilliance at the highest level.
“This sponsorship reaffirms our belief that Kenyan creativity deserves global recognition, and Tusker will always stand behind the voices shaping our country’s creative future.”
With a history of supporting Kenyan trailblazers, from musicians to visual artists, Tusker remains dedicated to fostering homegrown talent and fuelling creative ambition.
