Theme: Waves of Impact

Join us for a captivating exploration of Diani's vibrant culture and its deep connection to the ocean in "Inspiring Waves of Diani." This TEDx event will showcase a diverse lineup of speakers who share powerful stories about how the waves of the Indian Ocean influence the community’s heritage, creativity, and resilience. From traditional fishing practices and artistic expressions to innovative sustainability efforts, each talk will highlight the ways in which Diani’s people embrace their coastal identity. Attendees will leave inspired to connect with their environment, honor local traditions, and advocate for a sustainable future, all while celebrating the dynamic spirit of Diani.

TedxDiani - Riding the Waves of Change, Crafting Tomorrow Today.
Diani Beach
Diani, Coast, 80401
Kenya

Alpha Wise

The Self-Made Scholar

My name is Alpha, and I am 14 years old. I am a student at Forest School Online, where I engage in self-directed learning through the Transatlantic School program. Outside of academics, I am a proud member of the Junior Golf Foundation and actively participate in golf as part of my personal development. In my free time, I am passionate about contributing to my community. Most recently, I took part in the annual primates survey conducted by the Colobus Conservation, an experience that deepened my appreciation for wildlife and environmental stewardship. I am excited to share my journey of virtual schooling and how it has shaped my perspective on learning beyond borders. Through my experiences, I hope to inspire others to explore new ways of education and embrace the possibilities of self-directed learning

Atti Pye

Sustainability Champion

Atti Pye, a Kenyan-born conservationist and environmentalist from Diani, leads Wakijani Consultants, a sustainability consultancy. His career began on a cattle ranch, earning Kes 300 per day, before moving into wildlife research on African wild dogs in Central Kenya. Atti later managed safari camps, built lodges, and oversaw a 30,000-acre community-owned conservation area in the Maasai Mara. His experiences in tourism and conservation deepened his understanding of humanity’s social and environmental impacts. In 2017, Atti returned to Diani, helping hotels adopt eco-friendly practices, manage organic farms, and guide four hotels to eco-certifications. He envisions Diani as a model of sustainable tourism, balancing development and conservation.

Blanks Lutenyo

Culinary Virtuoso

My name is Blanks Lutenyo, and I am a chef by profession aka The Culinary Virtuoso. My culinary journey has been defined by a dedication to excellence in food preparation, presentation, and seamless kitchen operations. Having worked in diverse cultural environments, I have consistently upheld the highest standards, enabling me to thrive in both local and international settings. I have a deep passion for Swahili cuisine, which beautifully reflects the rich cultural heritage of the coast. Today, I am excited to share my talk, "Heritage on a Plate'' For me, cooking has been a lifelong passion that I discovered at a young age. It is both an art and a way to connect with people through flavors and stories. Outside the kitchen, I am a proud husband and father to three wonderful children, who are my biggest cheerleaders and the first to taste every new dish I create. I look forward to sharing ideas worth spreading about the unique beauty and impact of Swahili food with the world.

Pauline Nduva

Diani Talent Developer

Pauline is a passionate leader in the tourism industry, serving as Chairperson of Women in Tourism Kenya and a strong advocate for mentorship and coaching. Her journey in Diani began in 2013 when she joined Diani Sea Resort as a trainer for a groundbreaking program designed to nurture local talent in Diani and Kwale County. She focused on identifying raw potential and equipping individuals with the skills needed for meaningful employment in the hospitality sector. The program, initiated by Mr. and Mrs. Kampa, addressed labor shortages in Diani through intensive two-year training at Diani Sea Resort and Diani Sea Lodge. Over time, Pauline expanded its impact, culminating in a partnership with AHK and Marianist Institute that saw the graduation of its first cohort in 2024. As Operations Manager, She drives the program’s growth, recruiting 32 apprentices in 2024, while championing sustainability as a core element of the hotel's community impact and long-term positive change in Diani.