Three Teams Secure Slots to Represent Kenya at the International Cannes Lions Festival 2026 Competition

Six top young creatives have secured their slots to represent Kenya in the Digital, Film, and Design categories at the International Cannes Lions Festival, scheduled for June 2026 in France. The three winning teams include Digital duo Kinjal Shekh and Muskaan Shaikh, Film entrants Michelle Shingi and Nidhi Buty, and Design pair Gichimu Ikua and Victor Mureithi. The group secured their spots after winning the second edition of the Cannes Young Lions Kenya competition.

The intense competition, held at the Tusker Microbrewery from February 6–8, 2026, brought together 42 of Kenya’s most promising young creatives across the Digital, Design, and Film categories to evaluate their ability to deliver bold, creative, and innovative solutions under high pressure.

“Winning the Cannes Young Lions Kenya competition is an incredible honour. I’m filled with joy and gratitude. This moment proves that bold ideas, hard work, and believing in your voice truly matter. I’m proud to represent a new generation of Kenyan creatives ready to dream bigger and go further. I am really looking forward to flying the Kenyan flag high at the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity 2026 in France,” said Victor Mureithi.

“At Safaricom, we believe that the future of Kenya’s digital economy lies in the hands of our young creatives. Young Lions Kenya allows them to think differently, collaborate, and turn their creativity into solutions that enable them to compete anywhere in the world,” said Zizwe Awuor, Head of Brand and Marketing, Safaricom PLC.

This second edition of the competition was supported by key partners, including EABL, MB 96, and The Quollective, all of whom played a role in delivering a successful and impactful event.

“Tusker is proud to support Young Lions Kenya, a platform that continues to empower the next generation of Kenyan creatives as they prepare to represent the country at the Cannes Lions Festival, carrying our stories, culture, and creativity to the world,” said KBL Managing Director, Andrew Kilonzo. “Our partnership aligns with our longstanding commitment to championing creativity and innovation to ensure Kenya has a strong voice on the global stage.”

The Quollective, which aims to reshape the region’s creative status quo, emphasised the importance of nurturing local talent. “Partnering with Young Lions Kenya allows us to create opportunities for creative talent. We are committed to building platforms where creativity can thrive through collaboration, mentorship, and real opportunity,” said Emuron Alemu, Chief Creative Officer, The Quollective.

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