JUDITH KIRAGU
Lighthouse Chess Club
ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT
Meet Judith Karigu Kiragu, a woman of many talents! As the Director of Golden Key Ltd and Chairperson of the Association of Gaming Operators in Kenya, she’s a force to be reckoned with in the business world. But that’s not all—Judith is also a Project Manager, Management Consultant, and even a part-time lecturer!
Beyond her professional achievements, Judith is an accomplished author with three books under her belt, promoting good morals and ethics in society. She’s also played a pivotal role in developing Indigenous Language books for KICD.
But perhaps her most inspiring venture is the Lighthouse Chess Club, which she co-founded in 2017. This vibrant club, spanning Kenya and Uganda, focuses on empowering girls through chess. Under Judith’s guidance, the club has produced several National Chess Champions and continues to thrive with three teams in the national chess league.
Judith’s belief in empowering girls doesn’t stop there. She’s dedicated to connecting girls from all over Africa with Chess Grandmasters through innovative programs like Business Meets Chess & Kids and US Chess Women.
And let’s not forget her incredible work in film! Judith’s movie “Mukami” is a true testament to girl empowerment, blending education, culture, and chess to inspire young girls to reach for the stars.
PRECIOUS AWUOR
Walking Shadow Poetry Kenya
ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT
Meet Precious Awour Owoko, a visionary poet and the driving force behind Walking Shadow Poetry Kenya. With a passion for using poetry as a tool for healing and empowerment, Precious created this initiative to inspire individuals to overcome their struggles and find strength in their darkest moments.
Walking Shadow Poetry Kenya is more than just a platform for creative expression; it’s a beacon of hope in a world often plagued by selfishness and despair. Through her powerful poetry, Precious seeks to remind people that they are not alone in their pain and that there is always light at the end of the tunnel.
With over 50,000 followers on TikTok, Walking Shadow Poetry Kenya has already made a profound impact on countless lives, providing solace, inspiration, and a sense of community to those in need. Through her heartfelt words and unwavering dedication, Precious continues to uplift and empower individuals, helping them realize that they have the strength to overcome any obstacle life throws their way.
MATRID NYAGAH
Dada Trust/Fearless Films Ltd
ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT
Matrid Nyagah is a multifaceted creative powerhouse with a rich background in theatre arts and film technology. Armed with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Kenyatta University and a Higher Diploma in Film from FilmAkademie Wurttemberg in Germany, Matrid is a visionary storyteller who has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
As the Co-founder and Executive Director of Fearless Films Limited, Matrid has championed groundbreaking projects that push boundaries and spark conversations. Her portfolio boasts a diverse range of work, from producing award-winning short films like “Lauf” to directing impactful virtual reality experiences such as “In My Head,” shedding light on crucial issues like mental health.
In addition to her remarkable achievements in the film industry, Matrid is a fervent advocate for women in the arts. She is the founder of Dada Trust, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and celebrating women creatives. Through initiatives like the Udada International Women’s Film Festival, Matrid shines a spotlight on African women’s achievements in cinema, inspiring the next generation of storytellers.
With over thirteen years of experience in production, Matrid’s talent and expertise extend far beyond the silver screen. She has lent her skills to projects like the acclaimed documentary “SOFTIE,” which premiered at Sundance in 2020, showcasing her versatility as a production manager.
From her groundbreaking work on films like “Watu Wote,” which received accolades at the Student Academy Awards and earned an Oscar nomination, to her recent international short film “Where The River Divides,” Matrid continues to push creative boundaries and make an impact on audiences worldwide.
Beyond her contributions to the film industry, Matrid is a respected consultant, pastor, author, and hotelier, embodying the spirit of fearlessness and innovation in everything she does. With a passion for storytelling and a commitment to social change, Matrid Nyagah is a true force to be reckoned with in the world of cinema and beyond.