James Odongo
James Odongo, 33, is the CEO of the Kenya Extended Producer Responsibility Association (KEPRA), a national body tasked with championing sustainable waste management and circular economy practices across Kenya. His leadership journey began with an early appointment to CEO at just 29, a milestone he attributes not to luck, but to the transformative power of mentorship. Guided by mentors who challenged him to rise beyond perceived limits, Odongo embraced growth, resilience, and purpose as his core leadership pillars.
At KEPRA, he oversees national frameworks that ensure producers take responsibility for the post-consumer lifecycle of their products, with a focus on environmental stewardship, policy advocacy, and industry collaboration. His role demands strategic engagement with government agencies, manufacturers, recyclers, and communities, building a system that not only reduces waste, but redefines value across the production chain.
Odongo is a vocal advocate for mentorship, often sharing his story to inspire emerging leaders. For him, paying it forward is not just an ideal, it’s a responsibility. Through formal and informal mentorship networks, he supports young professionals in discovering their purpose and unlocking their potential. His journey reflects a powerful truth: when leaders are shaped by those who believe in them, they are compelled to create space for others to thrive.