Shikoh, Kipyegon, speak after prestigious Top 40 under 40 recognition
(From Left) Wanjiku Kihika and Faith Kipyegon who have been feted in the Business Daily top 40 under 40 women recognition.
When Wanjiku Kihika affectionately known as Shikoh founded Tribless Youth in 2016, she wanted to give young people a voice and create a safe space free of tribal lines.
She never imagined that this vision, powered through art, dialogue, and community engagement, would one day land her in Nation Media Group’s Business Daily, listed among Kenya’s top 40 Under 40 change makers.
Through her work, Shikoh has used art to amplify youth voices, spark conversations across divides, and promote coexistence and champion for good governance.
Her approach has reshaped how young people in Nakuru connect, beyond politics and ethnicity.
This year, her efforts were recognised nationally, at a deeply personal moment. In a phone interview with Mtaa Wangu, Shikoh’s voice carried pride.
“What I feel right now… I’m overwhelmed. It’s always been a dream, but you know those dreams you think are far away? I did not see it happening until it happened,” she begins.
Shikoh reveals that her interview came three days after delivering a baby girl.
As a woman, the postpartum moment makes you think of things like how long you will be away from work or where to pick up from. This recognition reassured me I’m on the right track,” she says.
Her journey began over a decade ago with a small WhatsApp group called Street Nakuru, where friends embraced her vision.
Shikoh now credits people like Midrift Hurinet CEO Joseph Omondi who hosted her organisation in its early days and journalists who amplified her work, for her success.
Asked what she celebrates most about herself, Shikoh was clear,
“Taking the risk. Leaving my job at Naivas to start something I didn’t know was headed anywhere. That leap of faith, walking into it with consistency, and moving with a community I appreciate that about me.” she explains.
Other than Shikoh Kihika, Nakuru saw decorated athlete Faith Kipyegon, feted as well.
In the Business daily article dated August 11,2025 Kipyegon says she is excited about the recognition and beyond that, the opportunity to represent the country.
"I'm so excited to be a nominee for the Top 40 under 40 award. It shows that what I have been doing in my career has touched and inspired many, especially young mothers,” read part of the article.
Kipyegon was received in Nakuru for her home coming in December 2023 where she expressed her joy to be received at home in style, as she reminisced her early training days in Keringet.
The two women are a true testament to Nakuru residents that excellence will always find its day to shine, and beyond that, they prove that it is possible for dreams to be realised.