Mk-africa and Absa Kenya Foundation Unveil Partnership to Empower Youth Sustainability Leaders

MK-Africa, the creator of the premier youth-led sustainability innovation platform, #MyLittleBigThing, has entered a strategic partnership with the Absa Kenya Foundation (AKF) to empower the next generation of sustainability champions. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed on Monday, coincided with the launch of the two-day #MyLittleBigThing Innovation Bootcamp. #MyLittleBigThing by MK-Africa is a leading impact initiative that empowers African youth to develop innovative solutions to sustainability challenges. It is a platform where youth transform their passion for sustainability into scalable, real-world solutions. This week, 50 high-potential youth innovators are participating in a two-day bootcamp focused on problem validation, prototyping, and strategic clarity. The intensive sessions will culminate in the Final Pitch Showcase, where the innovators present their refined solutions. "Today marks a pivotal moment for African youth innovation. The #MyLittleBigThing Challenge is about seeing tomorrow’s sustainability leaders today and providing them with the tools and mentorship to drive tangible change. This partnership is a powerful validation of our mission to ensure young people are at the forefront of creating a sustainable future. We are proud to be the leader in sustainable youth-led innovation, equipping a new generation with the skills to address society's biggest challenges," MK-Africa CEO, Muthoni Kanyana said. On his part, Absa Bank Kenya Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Charles Wokabi said: “At Absa, we see the stories and potential of the upcoming generations of African innovators. Our partnership with MK-Africa reflects our commitment to nurturing talent, strengthening innovation, and preparing youth for the future of work. Through this innovation bootcamp, we are equipping young people with practical, employability and entrepreneurial skills by empowering sustainable value chains and driving financial inclusion and digital economic empowerment.” The AKF is focused on empowering the youth through innovation and sustainable development. Through this partnership, AKF is supporting the bootcamp as the official innovation Bootcamp partner, aligning with its pillars of Education & Skills Development and Entrepreneurship & Economic Empowerment. Among others, the AKF’s support enables the bootcamp to provide suitable logistical support, access to mentors for the innovators and to embed key learning tools, including the #ReadytoWork programme, into the cohort's curriculum. The one-year partnership will run until December 31, 2026, and establishes a strong collaboration between MK-Africa and AKF. “By partnering with MK Africa, we are championing programmes that build practical, future-fit skills, and we look forward to exploring additional avenues to support the growth of the next generation of African sustainability innovators,” added Mr. Wokabi.