Marcus Malingi, a third-year Aerospace Engineering student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), has been recognized by the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) for his outstanding advocacy in promoting inclusivity and empowering persons with disabilities.
Malingi received the Emerging Changemaker Award during the National Gala and Advocacy Awards held on May 14, 2026, at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development.
The recognition followed his nomination by the United Disabled Persons of Kenya (UDPK) for his efforts to promote inclusion, advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities, and create opportunities for their participation in education, employment, sports, and community development.
Over the past two years, Malingi has pursued a broad range of initiatives reflecting a holistic approach to disability advocacy. He organized a career development session in partnership with Riziki Source in March 2025, promoting inclusive employment opportunities for young people with disabilities.
He championed representation in sports through the Kenya University Sports Federation (KUSF) Para Games and later partnered with UDPK to organize a Disability Awareness Week focused on advocacy and awareness creation.
Beyond the campus, Malingi has also extended his work through mentorship initiatives, including an outreach programme at Joytown Special School. He collaborated with six universities under the RISEE–Accenture Programme to equip students with disabilities with job-readiness and employability skills, helping them transition successfully into the workplace.
Reflecting on the award, Malingi said the recognition validates his journey as a leader and advocate for inclusion, strengthening his resolve to influence inclusive systems, policies, and opportunities.
“Through engaging with fellow students, particularly those with disabilities, I gained firsthand insight into the challenges they face daily. This deepened my commitment to advocating for a more inclusive environment,” he said.
Ms. Esther Wambui, Programme Officer at UDPK, commended Malingi for his dedication, noting that his drive, leadership, and commitment to creating opportunities for persons with disabilities had distinguished him as a young changemaker.
Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi congratulated Malingi, noting that his achievement reflects the JKUAT’s commitment to nurture socially responsible individuals who can make positive impact in their communities.
“This recognition not only celebrates Marcus’s personal efforts but also highlights the important role young people can play in championing inclusion, equality, and social transformation,” Prof. Ngumi said.
Malingi hopes to contribute to more accessible and equitable opportunities for persons with disabilities in the education sector, employment and society.
