The Kenyan community in the UAE is a tight-knit entity, known for its unity and the spirit of camaraderie and helping each other. As part of the efforts to stay linked with each other, the Kenyan community in the UAE organises frequent social events where they get together for some fun and frolic and to get away from their hectic and busy lives as hardworking expats.
One such event is the KEDIA Awards. Organised by Global Links FZE, Dubai, a Kenyan-owned event management and artists promotion company registered in the UAE, the KEDIA awards have grown in popularity and stature over the years. The main aim of KEDIA Awards is to highlight the contribution of Kenyan individuals and companies in the Kenyan diaspora. "It is a way of bringing Kenyans together and will help develop patriotism and a sense of togetherness," says Augustus Mulle, managing director of Global Links FZE. "Life abroad is not always easy. There are, however, some individuals and companies that go out of their way to help bring Kenyans together, and often help others in extraordinary ways. Such 'mashujaa' often goes unnoticed. KEDIA Awards aims not only to recognise the contribution of such individuals and companies but also honour them," he says.
The gala event held at Holiday Inn Bur Dubai saw the Kenyan community get together for an evening of fun, music, entertainment topped up by a glamorous beauty pageant. The guest judges for the beauty pageant were Mr. N. Hasan, Associate Editor, Africa Business Pages, Ian Mbugua, Director of Nairobi-based Performers Rights Society of Kenya and Wendy Bella, Miss Tourism Kenya 2016.
Penina Nyokabi of Kenya Airways was nominated as the Personality of the Year while Brenda Koech was crowned as as Miss Kedia 2017; and Kedia Jeff Maingi was the winner of the prestigious Mr. Kedia award.
The event sponsors included Africa Business Pages, Beauty Africa magazine, UAE Exchange, Ndatani Enterprises Ltd., Penta Kenya Limited and Heri Homes.
The audience were enthralled by entertainment from Mombasa-based Susumila and stand-up comedians Sleepy David, Eddie Butita and Felix Omondi.
We bring you a pictorial of the memorable event. Enjoy...
