On a day when social media timelines are flooded with memories, emotions, debates, and reflections marking two years since the June 25th, 2024 protests in Kenya, many young people are finding themselves drawn into conversations about the country's past, present, and future.
Yet in Shiru, Vihiga County, one young woman is spending her day differently.
.png)
While many are engaged in national discourse, Mariam Muhatia Luyali is focused on something she believes is equally important—showing up consistently for her community, her faith, and her personal growth.
When we asked Mariam what her plans for the day were, her response was simple and direct.
"I will be attending to my salon business and later in the evening I will join fellow young people at church for our Youth Week program."
No grand declarations. No dramatic statements. Just the steady commitment of a young leader who understands that change is often built through daily action rather than occasional noise.
For Mariam, leadership has never been about being the loudest voice in the room. It has always been about being present where she is needed.
Currently an aspirant for the Vice President position at Kaimosi Friends University for the 2026–2027 academic year, Mariam has steadily built a reputation as a passionate advocate for leadership, empowerment, and service. Her journey is not defined by a single title but by a collection of experiences that reveal her dedication to making a difference.
As the Gender Equality Representative within the Vihiga Students Network (VISNET), she has championed conversations around inclusion and equal opportunities for young people. Within Kaimosi Friends University, she has distinguished herself as one of the institution's top debaters, demonstrating her ability to articulate ideas, challenge perspectives, and engage constructively with issues affecting society.
Beyond campus leadership, Mariam is a member of Youths for Green Action Kenya, reflecting her commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. She also serves as a professional Sunday School facilitator, dedicating time to mentoring children and nurturing values that can shape future generations.
Her accomplishments extend into community engagement and personal development, having also been crowned Miss Nyota Hamisi 2026 Edition, a platform that has further amplified her voice among young people in the region.
What makes Mariam's story remarkable is not simply the number of leadership positions she holds. Rather, it is her understanding that leadership is a lifestyle.
It is visible in the salon business she operates, demonstrating the entrepreneurial spirit that many young people aspire to achieve. It is evident in her commitment to church activities, where she invests her time mentoring and encouraging others. It is reflected in her pursuit of student leadership, where she seeks to represent the interests of her peers.
In an era where distractions are abundant and attention is increasingly fragmented, Mariam represents a generation of young leaders who understand the value of consistency.
She reminds us that while national conversations matter, so does the work happening in classrooms, churches, businesses, community groups, and local organizations across the country. These are the spaces where leadership is tested daily and where lasting impact is often created.
As Kenya continues to reflect on the sacrifices, aspirations, and voices of its young people, Mariam Muhatia Luyali offers another important perspective—one that demonstrates how purpose-driven leadership can thrive through service, discipline, and unwavering commitment to community.
Her story is not one of waiting for change.
It is a story of becoming part of that change, one day, one action, and one person at a time.
And today, while the nation remembers, reflects, and debates, Mariam will be doing what she does best: serving, empowering, and leading.
That is her statement. That is her contribution. That is her story.
About Author: Mathew Obando is the community engagement and media lead at Forezava. He has committed time and resources in building a platform where young voices for impact are heard.
Comments