Trailblazing in Leadership - Maryben's Rise to VP of AfCFTA Young Entrepreneurs Federation

A Leader with a Global Vision

Maryben Omollo is no stranger to accolades. With over 50 million people reached to date globally, 17 prestigious awards under her belt and still counting, plus a thriving community of nearly 95,000 followers on LinkedIn, she has carved a strong niche as a mental health and leadership coach, speaker, and founder of the Maryben Foundation. Her work focuses on building resilient and inclusive workplaces across Africa, and her influence continues to grow globally. On September 12, 2022, Maryben reached another significant milestone in her career. She was appointed Vice President of the AfCFTA Young Entrepreneurs Federation (AfYEF), a pan-African organisation dedicated to empowering young entrepreneurs to harness the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

A Moment of Recognition

The announcement of Maryben’s new role was met with widespread celebration and admiration. One congratulatory message captured the sentiment of many:

“Congratulations, Ms. Maryben Omollo, on your new position. You have always been a force to be reckoned with, and in this new role, you’ll truly be formidable. Well done! You worked hard and earned the recognition that comes with your new appointment as Vice President for AfCFTA Young Entrepreneurs Federation—Afyef, in West Pokot County.”

This message not only acknowledged her achievement but also highlighted the perseverance and dedication that led to her appointment.

The AfCFTA Young Entrepreneurs Federation: A Platform for Change

AfYEF is a coalition of youth entrepreneurship organisations from across Africa. It was established to ensure that young entrepreneurs are not left behind in the implementation of the AfCFTA agreement. With its headquarters in Ghana and a membership base of over 100,000, AfYEF serves as a voice for youth in trade, policy advocacy, and business development. As Vice President, Maryben Omollo plays a pivotal role in shaping the federation’s strategic direction. Her responsibilities include supporting young entrepreneurs, advocating for inclusive trade policies, and fostering innovation and collaboration across borders. Her leadership is especially crucial in ensuring that women and youth are not only included but prioritised in Africa’s economic transformation.

A Career Built on Purpose and Passion

Maryben’s journey to this leadership position is rooted in a decade-long commitment to mental health, entrepreneurship, and empowerment. She is the founder of several impactful initiatives, including Greeneseal Cleaners and Pest Controllers and the Maryben Foundation. Her work spans multiple countries, and she has spoken at conferences and workshops in Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, India, the USA, and beyond. Her accolades include being named among the Top 40 Under 40 Women in Africa (2022), receiving the Africa Young Female Entrepreneurs Award, and being recognised as one of the Top 50 Women in ERP globally—the only African on the list. These honours reflect not only her professional excellence but also her unwavering dedication to uplifting others.

Leadership Rooted in Mental Health Advocacy

What sets Maryben apart is her unique blend of leadership and mental health advocacy. She believes that resilient leadership begins with emotional well-being. Through her coaching, she equips individuals and organisations with tools to navigate stress, build confidence, and lead with empathy. In her new role at AfYEF, she brings this holistic approach to leadership development, ensuring that young entrepreneurs are not only economically empowered but also mentally prepared to face the challenges of entrepreneurship.

Impact in West Pokot and Beyond

Maryben’s appointment is particularly significant for West Pokot County, a region often overlooked in national and continental leadership conversations. Her rise to a continental leadership position sends a powerful message to young people in marginalised communities: that with vision, resilience, and support, they too can lead on the global stage. Her presence in AfYEF also ensures that the unique challenges and opportunities of counties like West Pokot are represented in continental trade and entrepreneurship dialogues.

A Lesson in Resilience and Recognition

Maryben’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance. Her journey has not been without obstacles, but she has consistently turned challenges into stepping stones. Her appointment as Vice President is not just a personal achievement—it is a recognition of years of hard work, community service, and visionary leadership. For aspiring leaders, her story offers a valuable lesson: recognition often follows relentless effort, and true leadership is about lifting others as you rise.

Reflection: The Power of Purpose-Driven Leadership

Maryben Omollo’s appointment to the AfCFTA Young Entrepreneurs Federation is more than a title—it is a call to action. It reflects the growing recognition of youth and women as key drivers of Africa’s economic future. Her leadership style, grounded in empathy, resilience, and inclusivity, is exactly what the continent needs as it navigates the complexities of continental integration and youth empowerment. Her journey reminds us that leadership is not about titles or accolades, but about impact. It is about using one’s platform to create opportunities for others, to challenge the status quo, and to build systems that are inclusive and sustainable. As Africa continues to implement the AfCFTA agreement, leaders like Maryben Omollo will be instrumental in ensuring that the benefits of trade and entrepreneurship reach every corner of the continent. Her story is a beacon of hope and a blueprint for purpose-driven leadership in the 21st century.