July 1st 2025, Karatina University held a momentous graduation ceremony for the inaugural cohort one of the World Academy for the Future of Women. This was a milestone for the World Academy for the Future of Women’s first graduation not only in Kenya but Africa, following the program’s launch at Karatina University in August 2024. The ceremony was held at the University’s Library grounds and brought together key
stakeholders including the Kenya Commercial Bank, Africa Leadership Transformation Foundation, and the WAFW facilitators represented by Ms. Sandra Perez, and the founder of the WAFW who joined online alongside other facilitators and parents.
During the ceremony Miss Emma Wangari, one of the pioneer graduates, delivered a heartfelt speech reflecting on her journey in the program. “This program has taught me that there is more to life,” she said, emphasizing the importance of sustaining the WAFW legacy. As part of their leadership development, participants in Cohort 1 attended weekly open forums addressing key topics. These included:
These sessions played a vital role in shaping the graduates’ outlook, personal growth, and leadership journey.
In her opening remarks, Prof. Kellen Kiambati, Director of Resource Mobilization and International Programmes, and the WAFW team leader, traced the origin of the WAFW journey to a simple WhatsApp message during the COVID-19 pandemic. She highlighted the program’s rapid growth and impact and announced that the upcoming cohort will be inclusive of both genders. She also revealed plans for a major summit at the University after the graduation of the third cohort.
A section of the graduates attentively follows the speeches during the WAF Cohort 1 Graduation Ceremony
The strong partnership with KCB Foundation was recognized, with representatives from the Karatina branch applauding the University’s commitment to nurturing leadership among young women. On the other hand, Dr. Daniel Kamanga from the Africa Leadership Transformational Network (ALT) praised the University’s leadership and encouraged the graduates to apply their knowledge for the betterment of society.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Research and Student Affairs, Prof. Franklin Wabwoba, representing the Vice Chancellor, delivered the official remarks and extended warm congratulations to the graduates. He conveyed the Vice Chancellor’s pride in the program and appreciation for all the partnerships that made the success of this first cohort possible. He further noted that the university is
committed to continue supporting the World Academy for the Future of Women cohorts.
The DVC ARSA Prof. Franklin Wabwobwa addressing the WAFW graduates.
Jerrie Ueberle, the founder of WAFW who had joined virtually, congratulated the graduates and addressed them before they took an oath of leadership, pledging to uphold the values of the program. Ms. Sandra, WAFW Facilitator, commended the passion of the cohort and thanked both the University and parents for their support.
The graduates shared their experiences and testimonies highlighting how the program transformed them and helped them unlock their potential.The graduation of these 43 young women marks a transformational moment in Karatina University’s leadership journey and a bold step forward in empowering future leaders across Africa.
The graduates proudly pose for a group photo following the historic WAFW Cohort 1 Graduation Ceremony at Karatina University — a celebration of growth, leadership, and the power of bold dreams