The June 25th anti-Finance Bill protests in Kenya became a pivotal moment, catapulting a number of young activists to national and even international recognition.
This movement, primarily driven by Gen Z activists, leveraged social media to amplify their voices and rally support against the controversial Finance Bill proposed by the government, which aimed to impose significant tax hikes.
1. Osama Otero
One prominent figure who emerged was Osama Otero, known for his vocal opposition on social media platforms like X, where he held spaces that criticised the Finance Bill.
His efforts helped mobilise widespread participation in the protests.
2. Kasmuel McOure
Kasmuel McOure, another key personality, was not only at the forefront of the protests but also used his platform to engage and energise young people.
After his alleged abduction, he briefly stepped down from the movement, stating that while he was stepping away, the fight would continue.
3. Shakira Wafula
Shakira Wafula became a symbol of defiance against police brutality during the protests.
A viral video captured her confronting a police officer, demanding respect for the rights of Kenyans. This act of bravery made her a household name.
READ: 10 global personalities Kenyans searched for in 2024 - Google report
4. Hanifa Farsafi Aden
Hanifa Farsafi, an influencer and activist, used her social media presence to organise and inform protesters about rally points and objectives, significantly contributing to the logistical aspects of the movement.
Her contributions led to her winning the X Influencer of the Year at the Pulse Influencer Awards 2024.
READ: What Hanifa wishes she would have done with Sh31M raised for protest victims
5. Willy Oeba
Willy Oeba, a spoken word artist, performed pieces that encapsulated the frustrations and aspirations of the Kenyan youth.
His performances during the protests served as a unifying force, fostering a sense of solidarity among demonstrators.
6. Anini Barasa
Anini Barasa, a 19-year-old activist, gained attention for her bold stance in telling opposition leader Raila Odinga to stay out of the youth-led protests.
This move, captured on social media, positioned her as a fearless voice ready to take ownership of the movement's direction.
7. Morara Kebaso
Morara Kebaso emerged as one of the significant figures during and after the June 25 anti-Finance Bill protests in Kenya, primarily through his engagement in advocacy and public speaking.
Morara would after the protests begin a series dubbed ‘Vampire Diaries’ where he highlighted stalled government projects.
READ: Morara Kebaso cites 2 reasons he is taking brief hiatus from active politics
8. Austin Omondi [Ja Prado]
Dr Austin Omondi, a doctor and co-founder of Medics for Kenya, widely recognised on the social media platform X as Ja Prado, has earned a spot on our Top 100 Kenyans list.
Dr Omondi rose to prominence for his advocacy and humanitarian work during the Gen Z protests that took place between June and August.
He organised a network of unemployed doctors and healthcare workers to deliver critical medical care to victims of police brutality during the #RejectFinanceBill2024 demonstrations, making a significant impact in supporting those affected.
![8. Austin Omondi [Ja Prado]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimage.api.sportal365.com%2Fprocess%2F%2Fsmp-images-production%2Fpulselive.co.ke%2F30122024%2Fbcceb4bf-7079-4cff-9aa4-760781511d41.jpeg&w=3840&q=75)
9. Billy the Goat
Although he was relatively popular before the anti-finance bill protests, he rose to popularity due to his voice against the bill.
His arrest later made him even popular with many demanding for his release which happened later.
10. Mwabili Mwagodi
Mwabili Mwagodi, a hotel expert from Mombasa, launched a campaign dubbed #CleanTheAltar, aiming to remove politicians from Kenyan church functions.
He directly contacted pastors and bishops, urging them to disinvite leaders, including President William Ruto.
READ: Ex-CJ David Maraga's stern wake-up call to Ruto in New Year message
Prior to this initiative, Mwagodi gained attention for traveling from Mombasa to Nyahururu to lead Gen Z protesters against the President.
11. Gen Z Goliath
Known for his towering height, Bradley Marongo was an after product of the protests with his height catapulting him to popularity.
Marongo attended the protests and it is from there that he was noticed by many, he has since become an influencer.