Mumbi Ndung'u, 32

Mumbi lives by Nelson Mandela’s mantra: “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.”

Three and a half years ago, Mumbi took a risk that set her on a path to greatness.

In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, Mumbi started an initiative that is now disrupting the youth technology space. The decision has reaffirmed her view that even in the word ‘impossible’ there is ‘possible’.

Mumbi is the co-founder and executive director of the Power Learn Project, a Pan-African social impact organisation dedicated to equipping young Africans with essential tech skills and fostering inclusive talent development.

"When we started, most people thought we were crazy. Businesses were closing and people were frustrated, but there we were, so determined to start the project."

“When we started, most people thought we were crazy. Businesses were closing and people were frustrated, but there we were, so determined to start the project,” says Mumbi.

Mumbi previously worked as a digital engagement specialist at the World Bank, facilitating effective stakeholder management and engagement.

At Power Learn Project, Mumbi has trained 10,000 young people, some of whom have already been placed in the job market. The goal is to train one million people across Africa and connect them to job opportunities.

What makes her excited? “In the next two months, we will train another 4,000 software developers in three African countries,” she says.

Mental resilience is what keeps her motivated. She is very conscious of what she consumes—reading and watching— as it contributes greatly to her personal growth. “The mind is the most powerful tool.”

Mumbi, a music lover, says she looks up to several people as mentors at different stages of her career and life, including her mother.

When she’s not working, you’ll find her DJ-ing, at the golf club where she plays, or somewhere participating in women’s empowerment events, which she’s very passionate about.

– By Linet Owoko