In a moment of great pride, Chuka University congratulates Ms. Deborah Kangai, an Assistant Lecturer in Tourism Management at the Faculty of Environmental Studies and Resources Development, for her outstanding achievement at the 2026 Forty Under 40 Africa Awards. Ms. Kangai won the 2026 Forty Under 40 Africa Award in the Education (Mentorship) category for her exceptional contributions to mentorship and youth empowerment across Africa.
The prestigious Forty Under 40 Africa Awards, founded by Richard Abbey Junior, recognize Africa’s most influential young leaders under the age of 40 across diverse sectors, including education, technology, agribusiness, hospitality, law, and governance.
The 5th edition of the awards ceremony was held from 9–14 February 2026 at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City in Accra, Ghana, bringing together distinguished participants from over 20 African countries. Ms. Kangai was among 37 shortlisted candidates from Kenya, with five finalists competing in the Education (Mentorship) category.
Currently a PhD candidate in Management and Organizational Sciences at the University of Sopron, Hungary, Ms. Kangai is also a certified career counsellor and serves as Co-founder and Deputy Director of Ascent Change International (ACI). Through leadership at ACI, mentorship and capacity-building programs have impacted more than 600 students and provided professional development training to over 30 teachers across Kenya.
Her passion for mentorship, which began in her teenage years, continues to shape the professional journey. Notably, active contributions to initiatives such as the Stipendium Hungaricum Mentor Network (2023/2024) further demonstrate her commitment to academic guidance and youth empowerment.
Ms. Kangai’s recognition at this continental level is a testament to her dedication and the broader impact of her work. It reflects not only a personal commitment to mentorship and academic excellence but also highlights Chuka University’s ongoing mission to foster transformative leaders who make a meaningful difference in the world.
Chuka University is …… Inspiring Environmental Sustainability for Better Life
