Youths Drive Kenya’s AI Future at Everything AI Event in Nairobi

A growing number of young people in Kenya are embracing Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool that could transform careers, businesses, and innovation across the country.

During an AI event organized by Everything AI in Nairobi, the large turnout of youths stood out as many gathered to learn about the rapidly evolving AI ecosystem and the opportunities it presents.

The event brought together creatives, tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and innovators eager to understand how AI is changing industries and solving real-world problems.

One of the attendees, Denver Willy, a brand designer and video editor at Young Toon Studios Kenya, described AI as a major opportunity for young people in the country. 

According to him, AI has made research and access to information easier compared to the past.

“Back then, you had to move from one website to another to gather enough information for research and decision-making. Today, AI tools can compile information quickly and make work easier,” he said.

He added that AI-powered search engines and digital tools are helping people navigate unfamiliar places, locate nearby hotels, and access assistance faster without struggling.

Denver also revealed that attending the event benefited him professionally, saying he managed to secure a few potential clients interested in his design services.

The discussions also attracted international participants, including Julien Tessier from Mauritius, who traveled to Kenya to attend the event.

Tessier, who is the co-founder of Hodi Claude, said AI will reshape the global job market by eliminating some jobs while creating new opportunities.

“I believe that just like any other evolution, AI evolution will kill some jobs, yes, but it will also create other jobs,” he said.

He emphasized that AI still relies heavily on human input and guidance.

“AI needs to be taught. It cannot work on its own without people keying in data and guiding it,” he added.

Speakers and participants at the event expressed optimism about Kenya’s growing tech ecosystem, with many believing that Nairobi has the potential to become Africa’s leading AI hub, similar to how Singapore is positioning itself as a major AI center in Asia.

The event highlighted the increasing curiosity among Kenyan youths about emerging technologies and the role AI could play in shaping the future of employment, creativity, business, and innovation across Africa.