Wera Apondi is a strategic communications and influence leader passionate about using the power of creativity, culture and communications to drive meaningful social change.

As Head of Influence, Sub-Saharan Africa at WPP Scangroup, Wera works at the intersection of brands, people and culture, championing ideas that have the power to shape conversations and inspire action beyond traditional advertising.

Her belief in the responsibility of the creative industry to speak up on issues that matter is reflected in her role in Project Red Lipstick – Make Femicide a Crime, a purpose-led initiative by WPP Scangroup in partnership with Usikimye and Joanna K Cosmetics.

The campaign takes a bold stand against the normalisation and systemic treatment of femicide as simply another homicide. It seeks to drive public awareness, challenge complacency and advocate for the formal recognition of femicide as a distinct crime in Kenya—because naming the crime is an important step towards accountability, justice and protecting women.

Through Project Red Lipstick, Wera represents a growing movement of creative and industry leaders using their influence not only to tell stories, but to challenge the status quo, amplify important voices and turn public attention into meaningful action.