Anastasia Makunu
When Ms. Anastasia Mwelu Makunu was a young girl, her life unfolded in two distinct realms. The first chapter began in the Kenyan town of Machakos, where she was born. The second chapter emerged in a quaint village, where she relocated to at the tender age of four to live with her grandparents. These dual experiences shaped her understanding, revealing that education should be the ultimate gift bestowed upon any child.
Guided by her scholarly grandfather, Ms. Makunu embraced education with unwavering determination. The contrasts between the bustling town and the serene village were stark. In Machakos, children harbored dreams of becoming doctors, lawyers, and other esteemed professionals. Meanwhile, in the village, young girls aspired to marriage and motherhood after completing eighth grade. Young village girls’ ambitions rarely extended beyond creating a cozy home for their future families.
Yet, Ms. Makunu refused to be confined by societal norms. She recognized that education held the key to breaking free from village female limitations. With resolute focus, she set her sights on university, determined to transcend the boundaries imposed upon village girls. Her dreams reached far beyond the familiar homestead; she yearned to think independently and contribute to the world through a formal education. The classroom became her gateway to a brighter future, and she dared to dream big.
Ms. Makunu’s remarkable journey through education has led her to thrive in more than several diverse world-class industries. From the dynamic airline sector to cutting-edge telecommunications, to fintech, to wellness, and through financial planning, she has left an indelible mark. However, it is in the non-profit arena that she currently shines brightest of all.
As a Communications and Development Policy Specialist at Jesuits Africa, Ms. Makunu collaborates with fellow stakeholders to alleviate human suffering of the underserved. Her work centers on leveraging policies and practices that uphold individual human rights—dignity, peace, social justice, and reconciliation. Through her efforts, she weaves compassion into the fabric of positive global change.
Ms. Makunu’s commitment extends beyond boardrooms and policy papers. She actively engages in social justice and environmental campaigns. Notably, she participates in the African Climate Dialogues, where church leaders, civil society actors, and communities converge. Her involvement in COP27 and COP28 amplifies her voice, advocating for citizens to influence world leaders and shape a future free from conflict, economic strife, climate crises, and food insecurity.
In her rare moments of respite, Ms. Makunu also pays it forward. She mentors young minds through the Young African Leaders Initiative East Africa (YALI). Additionally, her volunteer work with the Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya underscores her dedication to empowering women and championing their rights.
Ms. Makunu holds a BA (Hons) in Mass Communications (Public Relations and Marketing) from Daystar University in Athi River, Kenya, and a Master’s in Business Administration (Strategic Management) from Kenyatta University. She is currently enrolled at the University of Nairobi and will receive a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) in Spring 2025. Ms. Makunu’s unwavering commitment to human rights advocacy is truly commendable. By leveraging her education, professional experiences, and tireless efforts, she is making a significant impact on the lives of the most vulnerable. Her journey exemplifies resilience, compassion, and a deep sense of purpose.
