Kenya is set to launch its first edition of the Cannes Young Lions Competition, marking a major milestone for the country’s creative industry.
The selection process, designed to kickstart the careers of talented young Kenyans, begins this weekend.
The competition will be intense, culminating in the announcement of the team that will represent Kenya at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in France in June 2025.
Regarded as the “Oscars of Advertising,” the Cannes Lions Festival is the world’s most prestigious event for advertising, marketing, and communication professionals.
The Young Lions competition provides emerging talent with a unique opportunity to compete at both national and global levels against the best in the industry.
A Game-Changing Opportunity for Kenya’s Creative Industry
Six of Kenya’s brightest young creatives will earn a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete on the global stage in the Young Lions Competition.
Additionally, one student will be selected to attend the Roger Hatchuel Student Academy, further shaping the future of Kenya’s creative landscape.
This milestone marks just the beginning. Young Lions Kenya is set to become a cornerstone in the country’s creative industry, inspiring a new generation to push boundaries, challenge norms, and redefine what Kenyan creativity can achieve on the world stage.
“Young Lions Kenya represents the kind of bold, future-focused investment that will shape the next generation of creative leaders. This is just the beginning, and we can’t wait to see what our young creatives will achieve,” added Serah Katusia, CEO, Belva Digital.
“For years, Kenyan creativity has been making waves internationally, but this is the first time we have an official platform to nurture and showcase our best young talent.
This is more than a competition—it’s a launchpad for Kenya’s creative future,” said Alemu Emuron, Chief Creative Officer, The Official Festival Representative of Cannes Lions in Kenya.
The launch of Young Lions Kenya signals a new era of opportunity for local creatives. Kenya’s official representation at Cannes Lions 2025 will not only elevate local talent but also cement the country’s position as a powerhouse in the global creative industry.
Safaricom and Tusker Backing the Initiative
As the Title Sponsor, Safaricom is playing a pivotal role in making this groundbreaking initiative possible, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing talent, driving digital transformation, and supporting the creative economy.
“Creativity and innovation are at the heart of Kenya’s future. Through our partnership with Young Lions Kenya, we are proud to give young creatives the platform to showcase their talent on the world’s biggest stage,” said Dr. Peter Ndegwa (CBS), CEO, Safaricom.
Tusker, one of Kenya’s most iconic brands, has also joined as a key partner, continuing its legacy of championing local culture and creativity.
“Tusker has always been at the heart of Kenya’s creative and cultural evolution. We are proud to empower young creatives and give them a global stage to showcase their talent,” said Mark Ocitti, Managing Director, KBL.
by MAUREEN WARUINGE
