Laura's Briefs

In this episode of Soul Stories, we delve into the world of wine with Soraiya Ladak, the visionary behind The Wine Shop and a trailblazing sommelier. Soraiya shares her journey from discovering her passion for wine to representing Kenya on international stages. We discuss the nuances of wine tasting, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the importance of cultural identity in the wine industry.​...

Dive deep into the soul of Polycarp Otieno, also known as Fancy Fingers of Sauti Sol, in this intimate episode of Soul Stories. From his journey into fatherhood and the inspiration behind his solo projects to his passion for African culture and music, Polycarp opens up like never before. Discover the man behind the music and his vision for the future.​ Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction 2:15 – Embrac...

The rise of the Gen Z movement in Kenya echoes historical patterns of youthful activism. From the Mau Mau uprising to the push for multi-party democracy, young people have always been at the forefront of change. My guest, Professor Israel Kodiaga, a renowned political analyst in Africa, delves into why the emergence of this new wave of youth activism is both expected and unique. Historically, Keny...

Isaac Kwaku is an international political economy advisor who is keen on powering developing economies by creating opportunities, catalysing conversation, and connecting capital. He is the Founder and Principal of Botho Emerging Markets Group, and has over two decades of experience working in 20 markets across the world. Isaac has an impressive track record in investment facilitation, strategy con...

We all see things differently. The liberty to be able to explore this creatively is what we are hoping to see as the world continues to open up. Migwa Nthiga is a commercial and documentary photography. He explains to me what this means and what he learns about everyday as he makes magic with his work.

Intuition, mysticism, numbers, ancestry… having studied microbiology Vivian Taabu, better known as Swiry Nyar Kano is passionate about the mystic secrets of life and people. She is keen to point anyone who listens towards their special greatness and place in life. We had a candid chat about being Africa, getting un-stuck, her thoughts on LGBTQ and afro-futurism.

With more than 30 years experience in the hospitality industry, Daniela Cellini has carved a niche for herself in setting up funky new restaurant spaces - more recently in Nairobi. If you have visited spots like Mawimbi, Gogol Pizza and the just opened Samaki Samaki - you will have enjoyed her handiwork in one form or another. This episode was recorded at Samaki Samaki (in case you hear us using t...

Bryan Ngala Mwendwa aka Dr Reign, is training to be a paediatrician, even though if he likes he could be a full time musician, or an influencer, or a bit of an activist. But he is all rolled into one - because all of those aspects are an expression of who he is. He is a wonderful guy, and he speaks with truth. We chatted about youth, Africa, life as a musician and just how hard it was for doctors...

At 27, Rosalie Akinyi, better known as The Only Rosa, is definitely not your average girl. She is one of many who has decided to be true to herself, and the universe seemed to have conspired with her to unearth a ball of talents that only she seems to possess. Beauty, brains and little bit of body-building on the side. What's not to love. Listen to our completely impromptu chat, and let me know wh...

The future of this country is the young, the future of the world is Africa. So how we nurture them now is critical in shaping what happens the very next 10 years. These are things several people are passionate about, including one Ronnie Osumba. Remember him? Entrepreneur, techie, and fiery about Kenya and Africa. Ronnie and I had a long chat about the youth and how we as adults need to work harde...