By Maureen Abwao and Ally Jamah
Kenya: After an overwhelming public response, the process of shortlisting winners of Transform Kenya awards has now started.
More than 24,000 entries were made by Kenyans who nominated individuals and institutions they consider to be transforming the country and touching the lives of citizens in their work.
The entries were made through SMSs, internet voting and physical votes.
From the entries, a shortlist of 45 personalities will be made by Riara University, from which 15 winners will finally be selected in 15 categories at a grand gala to be held later.
The initiative is a partnership of Deloitte Compan, Riara University and Standard Group Ltd.
Speaking Wednesday at the Riara University during the signing of a memorandum of understanding, Riara University Vice Chancellor Kiarie Mwaura said the selection of winners will be based on innovativeness, transformation attributes of nominees and the impact on lives of those around them.
“The number of votes that the nominees have gotten will contribute to 40 per cent of the final mark. Our consultants will also go to the ground to confirm the work being done by nominees. This will contribute to 60 per cent of the mark,” said Prof Mwaura.
Riara University will do data tabulation and verification to determine the winner.
“This initiative of identifying the innovative people driving the transformation will have a multiplier effect in making Kenyans to do more in improving the lives of others. This will move the country forward,” said Mwaura.
Standard Group Chief Executive Officer Sam Shollei indicated that the unique award may be turned into an annual event and hopes to increase the number of categories of entries.
“As we celebrate 50 years of independence, it should also be 50 years of evolution in the country. We should also look at what we, as a people, have done in transforming our lives, the lives of those around us and the nation as a whole,” said Mr Shollei.
The awards recognise and reward individuals, businesses and institutions committed to elevating the quality of life of Kenyans through their work.
The need for the awards was informed by the presence of many Kenyans who do exemplary things to inspire and facilitate better lives for the surrounding communities, and yet remain uncelebrated.
Shollei lauded Riara’s vision of nurturing innovators through its network of educational institutions from kindergarten to university level.
He said the Standard Group would continue partnering with Riara in the future.
