
26/04/2025
Fikirini Champions Youth Creativity at Launch of Talent Show
By Admin.
Nairobi, Kenya – Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, Mr. Jaccob Fikirini, has reaffirmed the government's commitment to nurturing new talent in Kenya’s creative sector. Speaking during the launch of a new talent show organized by Startled Kenya, Fikirini emphasized that the initiative goes far beyond entertainment.
"This show is a call to action," Fikirini said. "It invites young people to see themselves not just as consumers of culture but as creators of narrative and identity."
The platform, he explained, will also educate upcoming artists about the business side of entertainment while offering mentorship opportunities. Fikirini noted that the creative sector is an open space, welcoming all who dare to imagine, and not an exclusive club reserved for a few.
The show, spearheaded by Startled Kenya, attracted over 3,000 auditioning hopefuls. From this impressive pool, 18 contestants were selected to compete for a grand prize of one million shillings. Fikirini described this turnout as “very promising” for the future of Kenya’s creative industries and congratulated all who auditioned, inviting a round of applause for their boldness and talent.
Fikirini took time to commend the award-winning judges — Size 8, King Kaka, and Motif Di Don — for their dedication to mentoring the next generation. "Thank you for your commitment to this vision," he said.
The PS also celebrated a major milestone achieved just a day earlier: the launch of the first Creative Arts and Beauty Page at the National Youth Service, a collaboration between NYS and the State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy. This initiative fulfills a directive issued by President William Ruto during the NYS 86th passing-out parade held in March 2023.
Fikirini assured the youth that the government remains committed to opening doors, not closing them. "We are building pathways that allow young people from every community and background to access skills, mentorship, and meaningful opportunities," he declared. "This is about nation-building. It is about healing and vision."
He reminded young people that their creativity has the power to change not just screens but the entire world. "Whether you are a writer with a wild idea, a musician, a visual artist sketching in the margins, a video editor learning on your phone, or someone who hasn't yet dared to dream it, we see you — and we are investing in your potential."
Fikirini closed by calling on industry leaders, educators, and partners in music, television, and film to double down on collaboration and mentorship. "No one institution can shape the future alone," he said. "But together, we can create a creative sector that is inclusive, innovative, and unstoppable."
"As we launch the next superstar, let us remember what is possible when stories are told and when doors are opened. Let’s keep the lights on, the cameras rolling, and above all, the dreams alive."
The evening closed with cheers as young contestants prepared to showcase their talents to the nation — a testament to the bright future of Kenya's creative economy.