MKUSA Alumni Legacy Dinner: Celebrating Leadership Then, Now, and Tomorrow
Mount Kenya University hosted the MKUSA Alumni Legacy Dinner on Saturday, 14th June 2025, at Maxland Hotel, Thika — a memorable evening that brought together over 150 former student leaders from across MKU campuses. The event was an inspiring celebration of leadership, growth, and lifelong impact.
Distinguished guests included Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs and the Creative Economy, Mr. Fikirini Jacobs ( former student leader of Pwani University), Hon. Charles Karondo (Alumni and Chairman, Athi Water Works), and Hon. Osman Korar (Alumni and CEC for Youth Affairs, Sports and Communication, Kiambu County). The keynote address was delivered by renowned leadership coach and speaker, Mr. Robert Burale.
The dinner, themed “Leadership Then, Now, and Tomorrow,” provided a platform for alumni to reconnect, reflect, and inspire a new generation of change-makers. It featured powerful storytelling and rich insights into how student leadership experiences at MKU continue to shape national and corporate leaders across Kenya.
Message from the Chief Guest
Principal Secretary Fikirini Jacobs shared a deeply personal story of resilience and growth, tracing his leadership journey from the grassroots to government:
“Being among passionate, energetic young leaders reminded me of my own path—from Bamba village and Mwakitawa Secondary, to serving as Deputy President at Maasai Mara University and President at Pwani University. Each step, despite challenges, was a lesson in resilience, purpose, and growth.
Now serving as Principal Secretary, I carry with me the values and strength I gained through student leadership. It continues to fuel my commitment to youth empowerment and national progress.
To every young leader: stay the course, keep the focus, dream boldly, and lead with purpose. Your story is just beginning.”
MKU Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Peter Kirira, commended the alumni for exemplifying the transformative impact of student leadership and affirmed the University’s commitment to nurturing leadership for Kenya and beyond. He also noted that the University possesses a pool of experienced student leaders who can effectively mentor the next generation of young leaders.
Keynote and Panel Reflections
In a captivating keynote, Mr. Robert Burale challenged alumni to lead with authenticity, clarity of purpose, and a commitment to positive influence. His address resonated strongly with the audience, reinforcing the evening’s message of intentional leadership beyond campus.
A panel discussion featuring accomplished MKUSA alumni dived deeper into the theme, offering inspiring accounts of how campus leadership was a launchpad into national politics, corporate governance, and entrepreneurship.
Panelists included:
- Hon. Charles Karondo – Chairman, Athi Water Works | MKUSA President 2016/2017
- Ms. Casty Micheni – MKUSA Vice President 2019/2020
- Mr. Abdinoor Mohammed – MD, Labeyk Investment Ltd | MKUSA Secretary General 2011/2012
- Ms. Joy Akinyi Omondi – CEO, Akinyi Case House | MKUSA Vice President 2018/2019
- Hon. Osman Korar – CECM, Kiambu County | MKUSA Secretary General 2018/2019
- Mr. Martin Owilla – Founder, Mentor Me Program | Former Kenya 15s Rugby International
- Ms. Clare Ongati – MKUSA Academic Secretary, 2018
Each panelist reflected on the pivotal role MKUSA played in their personal and professional growth. Discussions centered on overcoming challenges, embracing responsibility, and using leadership platforms for wider societal impact.
Building a Legacy of Leadership
In his address, Mr. Gikera Kahara, Chairperson of the MKU Alumni Association, urged former student leaders to take up leadership roles both within the alumni community and in national development spaces.
“Let us step up — as alumni, as professionals, as citizens — and lead with purpose. The MKUSA experience has equipped us, and the time to give back is now.”
A Night to Remember
Madam Virginia the Alumni relations diector noted that the MKUSA Legacy Dinner was more than a reunion — it was a reaffirmation of MKU’s legacy in shaping ethical, visionary, and purpose-driven leaders. Through this event, the University continues to strengthen its alumni network and empower the next generation to dream boldly and lead with integrity.
