Judy Kipkenda’s family was evicted from Maji Mazuri forest shortly after her birth and they settled in a tiny rented house at Eldama Ravine town center. Raised away from her ancestral home the lush forests of Koibatek, Judy witnessed firsthand the beauty and fragility of her ancestral lands. She saw her community’s deep connection to nature, their traditional knowledge, and their struggles to preserve
their way of life.

As Judy matured, she became increasingly aware of the threats facing the Ogiek people, including deforestation, land encroachment, and discrimination. She observed the challenges faced by women and youth within her community, limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

Fueled by a passion for her people and a determination to create positive change, Judy decided to take action. She gathered a group of like-minded individuals, both women and youth, to discuss the pressing issues facing their community. Their conversations ignited a shared vision of a future where the Ogiek people could thrive, preserving their cultural heritage and protecting their environment.

From these initial discussions, the Koibatek Ogiek Women and Youth Network (KOWYN) was born. Judy, with her unwavering commitment and leadership, became the organization’s founding executive director. Under her guidance, KOWYN embarked on a journey to address the challenges faced by the Ogiek community.

Judy’s leadership has been characterized by her deep understanding of the Ogiek people’s needs and her ability to inspire and mobilize others. She has worked tirelessly to empower women and youth, providing them with education, skills training, and economic opportunities. She has advocated for the protection of the Ogiek’s ancestral lands and promoted sustainable practices that would preserve the environment.

Judy’s vision lives on in KOWYN, as the organization continues to be a driving force for positive change in the Koibatek region. Her vision, courage, and determination have paved the way for countless Ogiek women and youth to realize their full potential and contribute to the preservation of their community’s rich heritage.

View Judy bio here…