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Friday Shot | Issue 178 | 30th January 2026

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STRATEGIC ALLIANCE

The aim this year is to share a wide range of partnerships, benefits and perks to give EO members more value, variety and make it a Wow Experience.

Top Tip: Open up the ‘Wow Deals Deck’ on a regular basis as it is continuously updated with the latest partnerships and benefits. If you have any leads and ideas for partnerships, do reach out! strategic@eokenya.org

VIEW WOW DEALS HERE

DEAL SPOTLIGHT

CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS

SPECIAL EO OFFER:

Wherever business or life takes you, EO’s new global partnership with Qatar Airways makes travel easier for you and your family with comfort, service, and savings.

Available now: EO members and families enjoy exclusive discounts on Business and Economy Class fares for both work and leisure.

Voted the World’s Best Airline by Skytrax, Qatar Airways connects you to 170+ destinations worldwide with award-winning reliability and care. Whether sealing your next deal or planning a getaway, experience premium travel at lower costs. Valid for bookings through August 2027

Click here to see all the WOW Venues and Contact info for easy booking

2026 EO Kenya Learning Calendar

OTHER JANUARY

PwC Owners Agenda: The Global Family Business Survey

Speaker: PwC

Time: TBC

Venue: TBC

OTHER FEBRUARY

Founders and Funds Pitch

Night: Raising Capital and Manufacturing In Africa

Speaker: BDO East Africa

Time: TBC

Venue: TBC

27TH FEBRUARY

BTS

Sales Workshop: Growing Business Through Sales Structure and Process

Speaker: Umesh Bhojwani

Time: 9.00am - 12.30pm

Venue: Vision Plus, Tatu City

REGISTER NOW

18TH FEBRUARY

KEYNOTE

Deepening connections with spouse

Speaker: Robyn Smith

Time: 5.30pm arrival, registration and drinks - 7.00pm hard start

Venue: TBC

Required members with spouses

REGISTER NOW

KEYNOTE 6TH MARCH

Beyond Fear: Pushing Past Impossible

Speaker: Ryan Stramrood

Time: From 4.00Pm with drinks and biting after Venue: TBC

SLP allowed with children over 12 years

REGISTER NOW

19TH MARCH

How to Sell Your Business

Speaker: Maitri Capital

Time: 4.00pm - 6.30pm

Venue: TBC WORKSHOP

REGISTER NOW

2026 EO Kenya Learning Calendar

OTHER

My Biggest F**k Up 2.0

Speaker: EO Member

Time: 7.00pm onwards with dinner and drinks.

Venue: TBC

Setting up family business governance, planning for sucession.

Speaker: Joe Okello and African Family Business Enterprise

Time: TBC

Venue: Hilton, Kwetu

BTS APRIL JUNE

A BTS at Mayers

Speaker: Mayers

Time: TBC

Venue: TBC

Design Thinking: Tools to Solve Real Business Challenges

Speaker: TBC

Time: TBC Venue: TBC

Truth Coffee: The Story of South Africa’s Largest Coffee Brand

Speaker: David Donde

Time: TBC

Venue: TBC

We would like to take a moment to clarify the scope and structure of the Seed Moderator role.

Seed Moderator Role

Seed Moderator certification for members and SLPs for members and SLPs who are interested in stepping into this leadership role. The certification training:

The Seed Moderator role is a completely volunteer position. Its primary objective is to set new forums up for success by providing guidance and structure during the early stages of the forum lifecycle. Seed Moderators support a forum for a maximum of six meetings and do not attend the forum retreat.

Please note that this role is not paid by the global organization or by chapters. The Seed Moderator position is intended to be fulfilled on a volunteer basis.

As a reminder, we offer a Seed Moderator certification

Is offered quarterly Is available in two time zones Is free of charge 4-hour Virtual Training

If you’re keen to become a seed moerator, please reach out to Shaz

We are truly happy to continue supporting moderators in their leadership journey. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to the Forum Team.

Looking back, how would you describe your journey in EO so far?

My journey in EO has been simply amazing.

My forum has been simply amazing, and this group has enabled me to grow in all aspects of my life. I love learning events and have experienced some of the best learning ever from the Iron Cowboy to Dandapani

The path to leadership, through joining the board, GLC and attending the Chapter Leadership Academy has been truly transformational.

Friday Shot EO Journeys

As MarCom Chair, one of my goals is to help open EO Kenya members’ eyes to the wider world of EO, parts of the organisation many of us may not yet know or fully use. What better way to do that than by learning directly from our long-tenured members?

Over the coming months, I’ll be featuring short interviews with EO Kenya members who have been in EO for eight to ten years, sharing their journeys, leadership paths, and experiences of international learning. These will appear in the Friday Shot once or twice a month, so please keep an eye out for them.

What better way to start than with our President Elect Elect

When did you join EO, and what stage of life or business were you in at the time?

I joined EO in 2016, after an amazing event at the top of the KICC building. I joined at a stage, where my business was going through significant challenges, which turn was having an impact on my family and myself.

What has been the single biggest value EO has brought into your life?

It has saved my business from almost bankruptcy

Forum
Zen (the best forum)
2016
Year you joined EO

What kind of value have you gained from these events?

Business, Leadership, Mindset, Network, Personal, Growth, Family

What kind of value have you gained from these events?

There is great exposure, learnings and networking

How can members make the most of everything EO has to offer?

Do everything with a Beginners Mindset - Shoshin.

If you have gained a lot throughEO, think about giving back through mentoring, experience share

What would you encourage members to do more of within EO?

Get vulnerable.

Growth mindset - Don’t stop growing personally, as a family and as a business

Continous learning - local events, international events

Get comfortable getting uncomfortable

Path of leadership - join the board

Friday Shot

Journeys

Which international learning events or EO global programs have you attended?

GLC, CLA, Others

Which international learning events or EO global programs have you attended?

Board

Is there one moment, insight, or connection from an international event that really stands out?

Connecting with EO members in Shanghai, and finding the same tribe there and reaching 5% so easily

What would you tell a long-standing EO member who has never attended one?

Just do it

When did you join EO, and what stage of life or business were you in at the time?

I am ever so grateful for everything it has done for me. This is my Tribe

Any final message you’d like to share with the EO Kenya community?

To truly appreciate the power of EOWhat you Give is What you Get

GSEA Kenya 2026 Competition

Sponsorship Opportunities

CHAMPION KENYA’S NEXT GENERATION OF ENTREPRENEURS

What is GSEA?

The Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) is the flagship student entrepreneurship programme of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) - a global network of over 15,000 entrepreneurs across 60+ countries.

GSEA recognises students who own and operate real businesses while still in university, evaluating not just financial performance, but resilience, adaptability, leadership, and long-term impact.

The GSEA Kenya Winner advances to the Global Finals, competing with top student founders from over 40 countries worldwide.

Why sponsor GSEA?

•Support high-potential student entrepreneurs

•Align with a credible, global entrepreneurship platform

•Engage with future founders at an early stage

•Contribute directly to student impact, not just an event

GSEA is purpose-led — it’s focused on people, not pitches.

Sponsor Packages

Lead Sponsor – KES 600,000 (1 slot)

Headline sponsor of GSEA Kenya, with top-tier brand visibility, a speaking opportunity, a judge seat and direct engagement with Kenya’s most promising student founders.

Supporting Sponsors – KES 400,000 (2 slots)

High-visibility sponsors of GSEA Kenya, with strong brand presence during the event.

Community Sponsors – KES 200,000 (2–3 slots)

Purpose-led supporters of GSEA Kenya, recognised across event communications and merchandise.

Kenya Winner Award Sponsor – KES 150,000

Exclusive sponsor of the GSEA Kenya Winner cash prize, including on-stage prize presentation with a branded ceremonial cheque and media recognition.

Kenya Runner-Up Award Sponsor – KES 75,000 Sponsor of the GSEA Kenya Runner-Up cash prize, including on-stage prize presentation with a branded ceremonial cheque and event recognition.

Event Details

DATE: 28th February 2026

VENUE: Nairobi Street Kitchen

TIME: 10.00am to 12.00 pm - Competition 12.00pm onwards - Networking & Social

Igniting Leaders. Ideas. Impact.

Date: 6th May, 2026

Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (GMT+3)

May 7, 2026 – GSEA MEPA Finals (Associated Event)

Location: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

REGISTER NOW

Join EO members and invited guests for an exclusive SPARK Saudi Summit experience in the vibrant city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on May 6, 2026. Designed to ignite the mind, body, and soul, SPARK is a high-impact leadership experience that brings together visionary entrepreneurs, bold ideas, and meaningful connections. Through powerful talks, honest peer dialogue, and immersive cultural experiences, participants are challenged

SPARK Saudi Summit 2026

to reflect, grow, and lead with greater clarity and purpose.

The experience continues on May 7, 2026, with the GSEA MEPA Finals—an associated flagship event celebrating entrepreneurial excellence and showcasing some of the region’s most promising and inspiring founders.

Save the date. SPARK the Summit. Experience the energy of Jeddah.

Experience it Live

Date: 10th -12th June 2026

Location: Winelands Cape Town South Africa

REGISTER NOW

EO Ignite is a regional event based in South Africa, open to EO members from across the globe rotating yearly between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Ignite caters to between 150-200 Entrepreneurs who aim to come together to learn, grow, bond, network and of course, have some fun.

Cape Town will be the host for 2026 and we look forward to hosting you in the Winelands.

The format of Ignite is centered around TED style talks, learning from our own member’s stories, their highs and lows and incredible achievements while facing the challenges of being an entrepreneur.

Invited Keynote speakers follow the same 5% principle when sharing their stories.

EO IGNITE 2026

10TH -12TH JUNE 2026

WINELANDS CAPE TOWN

SOUTH AFRICA

Ignite also offers the rare opportunity for members to “shamelessly market their business” through coordinated Mini-Pitch sessions, exhibitions and more.

OPEN TO

EO, EOA and SLP Forum members may attend the full conference.

Spouses who are not in a SLP forum are welcome to join the members for the evening functions. There is a Spousal Supplement cost. A spousal programme will also be in place for daily activities for spouses travelling with members should they wish to take part in it (at an additional cost)

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

SAVE THE DATE!

Date: 13 - 17 June 2026

Location: Cape Town

REGISTER NOW

We’re excited to officially announce the Regional Leadership Academy (RLA) 2026, taking place in Cape Town from 13–17 June 2026.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, iconic Table Mountain, and the city’s vibrant culture, RLA 2026 promises an unforgettable week of leadership development, meaningful connection, and inspired learning. Cape Town’s unique blend of natural beauty and dynamic energy creates the perfect environment to step back from the day-today, reflect, and sharpen your leadership perspective alongside fellow EO leaders from across the region.

RLA - Regional Leadership Academy

Over five immersive days, participants can expect thoughtprovoking sessions, powerful peer conversations, and experiences designed to stretch how you think, lead, and show up both personally and professionally.

Please block your calendars and register as soon as possible to secure your place. More details about the programme, speakers, and curated Cape Town experiences will be shared soon.

Get ready for a week that will challenge, connect, and inspire you.

Women’s Spa Retreat in Mexico

28th February - 4th or 7th March 2026

Join fellow women entrepreneurs at Rancho La Puerta in Baja California, Mexico, 28 February-4 or 7 March 2026, (4- or 7-night options) for a transformative wellness retreat. Reinvigorate through spa treatments, wellness classes, and meaningful connections with likeminded leaders.

XII BBQ Masters – MyEO Guatemala

28 February 2026

Entrepreneurs from around the world gather on 28 February at El Pulté Ecuestre for a full-day, fire-fueled BBQ showdown— where bold flavors, global connections, and entrepreneurial energy come together in true MyEO style.

Lifepilot Retreat for Post-Exit Founders

18 – 20 March 2026

Step away from the noise and into clarity from 18–20 March at Themika Farm in Tulbagh, just outside of Cape Town, South Africa. Designed for post-exit founders (and those approaching exit), this immersive MyEO retreat helps you reconnect with purpose, define what’s next, and build a personal operating system alongside peers in a natural setting.

Women’s Spa Retreat in Mexico

28 February – 4 or 7 March 2026

Join fellow women entrepreneurs at Rancho La Puerta in Baja California, Mexico, 28 February–4 or 7 March, (4- or 7-night options) for a transformative wellness retreat. Reinvigorate through spa treatments, wellness classes, and meaningful connections with like-minded leaders.

Upcoming MyEO Events

SUYO: A Retreat for Women Who Lead

25th April -1 May 2026

Experience SUYO, a transformative surf-and-yoga retreat for women leaders in Costa Rica, running 25 April-1 May 2026. Expect guided workshops, nourishing food, oceanfront stillness, and a powerful community of women.

REGISTER

Bali and Komodo Islands Voyage

19th – 29th September 2026

Set sail 19–29 September 2026 aboard Aqua Blu for an exclusive 10-night EO adventure. Explore Bali and the Komodo Islands through diving, kayaking, hiking, and curated island experiences an unforgettable luxury expedition with fellow explorers.

REGISTER

MyEO x Zero G

21 - 22 September 2026,

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime MyEO adventure in Bordeaux from 21-22 September 2026, featuring a members conference and an exclusive Zero-G flight with astronaut-led experiments, real weightlessness, and rare insights into European space training.

REGISTER

30TH

UPCOMING EVENTS

EO@Wharton: Elevating Finance + Operations

Unlocking Opportunities for Entrepreneurs

9th –13th February 2026

Location: University of Pennsylvania

REGISTER NOW

Global Leadership Conference

Uniting EO’s Leaders Worldwide

15th -17th April 2026

Location: Kansas City, MO

REGISTER NOW

RLA APAC 2026

Discover the spirit of leadership in the heart of Australia

23rd – 27th March 2026

Location: Uluru, Australia

REGISTER NOW

The EO/London Business School Growth Forum (EO/LBS)

For a transformative learning experience on growing your business.

Venue: London, UK 26 - 30 April 2026

REGISTER NOW

UPCOMING EVENTS

SPARK Saudi Summit 2026 EO Saudi Summit

Igniting Leaders. Ideas. Impact.

6th May 2026 & (7th May, 2026 –GSEA MEPA Finals (Associated Event)

Location: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

REGISTER NOW

EO@Oxford Program

Unlocking strategic innovation

26th May 2026

Venue: Oxford University, UK

REGISTER NOW

Unlocking Opportunities for Entrepreneurs

May 2026

Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

REGISTER NOW

EO IGNITE 2026

Experience it Live

10th -12th June 2026

Location: Winelands Cape Town, South Africa

REGISTER NOW

UPCOMING EVENTS

Regional Leadership Academy - RLA

13th - 17th June 2026

Location: Cape Town, South Africa

REGISTER NOW

EO Women Summit 2026

8th – 11th June 2026

Location: Pestana Palace Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal

REGISTER NOW

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