In a world hungry for principled, purposeful, and people-centred leadership, moments of recognition matter as affirmation of values lived out in the real world. This year, that affirmation comes in the form of the Business Daily Africa Top 40 Under 40, which has spotlighted five exceptional Strathmore University alumni for their leadership, excellence, and service to society.

At the helm of Sojpar Ltd, Reehan Anwar exemplifies disciplined, values-driven leadership. As General Manager, he has steered the company’s expansion into a multi-county enterprise serving more than 15 counties and over 10,000 retailers across western Kenya. His journey is one of steady growth built on consistency, ethical decision-making, and a deep respect for the communities his business serves.

In the construction sector, David Wairegi represents a new generation of finance leadership. At Muthokinju Paints and Cement, he blends analytical rigour with strategic foresight and youthful energy. Beyond balance sheets and forecasts, David is driven by creating pathways for others to grow alongside him, proving that leadership is as much about lifting people as it is about delivering results.

For Mishael M. Wambua, impact unfolds at a continental scale. Through his work with the GIZ Kenya Support Programme for the African Continental Free Trade Area, he is helping shape Kenya’s role in Africa’s economic integration story. His commitment to trade and development is matched by an extraordinary academic milestone, being part of the team that brought Strathmore global recognition by winning the The John H. Jackson Moot Court Competition on World Trade Organisation Law in 2019.

Entrepreneurship takes centre stage in the journey of Dennis Ngari Mwaura, Founder and CEO of DENRI AFRICA. What began as a student passion has evolved into a regional brand championing African creativity, local solutions, and job creation. Ngari’s leadership philosophy is  ‘empower people, and exceptional products will follow.’

Rounding out this remarkable group is Mohsin Adamjee, Managing Partner at Adamjee Auditors, a member firm of SFAI International, and Director at Edmo Global Services. With a focus on impact and integrity, Mohsin is building a globally connected advisory practice grounded in trust. His work supports entrepreneurs at critical early stages, helping them gain the financial clarity needed to make confident, long-term decisions.

Together, these five alumni tell a powerful story of character-driven excellence. At Strathmore University, we celebrate them for how they lead with service, professionalism, innovation, and purpose at the core.

They remind us that leadership is not a destination, but a responsibility and that the future is brightest when built by those who choose to serve.

Article written by Stephen Wakhu