Margaret Wanja
2026 Fellow
Focus Areas
Margaret Wanja is a passionate youth development expert and leader dedicated to empowering young people and advancing sustainable community transformation in Kenya. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Youth for Sustainable Development Machakos Chapter CBO (YSD), a youth and women-led organization focused on empowering young people socially, politically, and economically for sustainable development. Through the Dream Makers Program, she has strengthened local youth mentorship by bringing together stakeholders and systems to equip young people with skills in employability, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, digital skills, leadership, mental wellness, climate action and active citizenship to increase employability and promote decent work in line with SDG 8.
Wanja holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English, Philosophy, and Information Technology. She has experience in project management, grant management, community mobilization, partnership development, advocacy, and organizational leadership. Over the years, she has worked closely with marginalized youth, local stakeholders, development partners, and government departments to implement impactful community programs that address social and economic challenges affecting young people.
“As a visionary leader, she empowers young people to unlock their potential and create sustainable impact within their communities.”