Nelson Amenya, a Kenyan MBA student at HEC Paris, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Whistleblower Integrity Actions Award by Transparency International Kenya.
The recognition celebrates his unwavering commitment to accountability and justice in the face of significant challenges.
Expressing his gratitude, Amenya said, “I am truly humbled to receive this recognition from my alma mater, HEC Paris. To those who ask how I managed, the truth is, I did it scared. Courage does not mean fearless—it pushes forward in spite of fear.”
Quoting renowned African poet Chinua Achebe, he reflected on his journey:
“The coward lives long to show the brave man’s children where their father was buried.” He added, “I also held onto the wisdom that ‘A coward dies a thousand deaths, a soldier but one.”
Amenya acknowledged the steadfast support of his classmates, professors, political and corporate leaders, family, and the Kenyan people, who stood by him through thick and thin.
Notably, he credited their resilience even as he faced SLAPP suits (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) in Kenya and France, stemming from his activism.
“This journey would not have been possible without the Kenyan spirit of resilience, which continues to ignite our hearts and drive transformative change,” he concluded.
The award celebrates Amenya’s courage in promoting integrity, transparency, and justice.
It is a moment of pride for Kenya and a reminder of the power of standing firm against adversity.
Congratulations to Nelson Amenya for this remarkable achievement!
