In the bustling city of Nairobi, one name stands out in the realms of event management and international networking: Grace Akinyi Adongo. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated event curator and business connector is both inspiring and instructive.
Early Life and Discovering a Passion
Born and raised in Kenya, Grace’s formative years were marked by a natural inclination towards social interactions and hospitality. Her innate ability to connect with people became evident when a close friend recognized these traits and encouraged her to host her first event. What was initially planned for 50 attendees astonishingly drew a crowd of 300. This overwhelming success was a pivotal moment, revealing to Grace her potential in event management.
Identifying a Niche in the Market
As Grace delved deeper into the events scene, she observed a significant gap: a lack of platforms dedicated to connecting Africans within the continent. Motivated by this realization, she envisioned creating events that would foster connections among Africans and those passionate about Africa. This vision led to the birth of the United Tribe of Africa, a brand dedicated to promoting African unity and collaboration.
Testing Waters Beyond Borders
Understanding the importance of unbiased feedback, Grace chose to debut her event concept in Rwanda, away from her familiar Kenyan environment. The event’s success in a foreign setting validated her ideas and solidified her confidence in the potential of her initiatives.
MENA Africa Business Network: Bridging Continents
Grace’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to co-found the MENA Africa Business Network. This platform aims to bridge the business communities of the Middle East, North Africa, and Africa, fostering collaborations and partnerships. In June 2024, the network hosted its inaugural Business Luncheon in Nairobi at the exclusive Capital Club. The event attracted dignitaries, including representatives from Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of Kuwait. Esteemed speakers like Mr. Gul Khan, CEO of I&M Bank, and Mr. Abbas Meghji, Founder of MENA Consultancy, graced the occasion, emphasizing the network’s commitment to fostering meaningful business dialogues.
Following this, in August 2024, the network organized its second Sundowner event at Nairobi’s Upepo Rooftop Bar. The gathering provided professionals from diverse sectors an opportunity to connect, further solidifying Nairobi’s position as a hub for MENA-Africa business interactions.
Nairobi Rock Night: A Cultural Phenomenon
Beyond business, Grace has a deep appreciation for music and culture. This passion gave rise to the Nairobi Rock Night, an event that has become a staple in the city’s entertainment calendar. The first Nairobi Rock Night of 2025 was held on February 11th, offering rock enthusiasts a platform to enjoy their favorite tunes and connect with like-minded individuals. Attendees were even given the opportunity to request their favorite rock songs, making the event interactive and personalized.
Recognition and Accolades
Grace’s dedication and exceptional hosting skills have not gone unnoticed. In 2017, she was honored with the “Best Host” award by InterNations, a global expat network. The award recognized her unparalleled ability to make attendees feel welcome and her innovative approaches to event hosting, such as organizing raffles and capturing memorable moments with country flags. Her efforts have significantly contributed to creating a sense of belonging among expatriates in Nairobi.
Overcoming Challenges and Personal Growth
Grace’s journey hasn’t been devoid of challenges. There were moments of self-doubt and external skepticism, especially regarding her career choices. However, her resilience and unwavering belief in her vision propelled her forward. She emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals and being attuned to market needs. Her story underscores the significance of perseverance, adaptability, and the courage to venture into uncharted territories.
Current Endeavors and Future Aspirations
As of 2025, Grace continues to be a dynamic force in Nairobi’s event scene. Her upcoming events are eagerly anticipated, and she remains committed to creating platforms that foster connections, celebrate culture, and promote business collaborations. Through her various initiatives, Grace aims to inspire others to pursue their passions, embrace challenges, and contribute positively to their communities.
Conclusion
Grace Akinyi Adongo’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, vision, and resilience. From identifying gaps in the market to creating impactful events that bridge cultures and continents, her story serves as an inspiration to many. As she continues to innovate and lead in the event management sphere, Grace remains a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change in Nairobi and beyond. Do follow her on Instagram.
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