Young Kenyan entrepreneur Alice Ngitira has been honoured with the Amal Clooney Women’s Empowerment Award at the prestigious King’s Trust Awards, held at the Royal Festival Hall in London.
The award recognises extraordinary young women who have overcome adversity and are positively transforming their communities.
At just 19 years old, Ngitira is making a global impact through her thriving business in handcrafted Kenyan beadwork, producing bangles, belts, and other accessories.
Her initiative not only sustains her family and supports her siblings’ education, but also empowers other young women from vulnerable backgrounds with artisanal and entrepreneurial skills.
Ngitira was personally congratulated by His Majesty King Charles III during a reception at Buckingham Palace, where the monarch celebrated the remarkable achievements of this year’s award recipients.
“I believe when a young person—especially a girl—is empowered, the whole community is enlightened,” Ngitira said. “When the girl is able to earn income, she will provide for her family, educate her siblings, and help build a self-reliant generation. That is the goal I hope to achieve by being that change.”
Ngitira’s journey was made possible through the Enterprise Challenge Programme, a collaboration between King’s Trust International and the Asante Africa Foundation, which equipped her with critical skills in digital marketing, business planning, and outreach.
With this support, she has expanded her venture and now employs other young women, passing on the skills that changed her life.
Entrepreneur Alice NgitiraThe award was presented by human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, who praised Ngitira for her courage and leadership.
“Alice's resilience, strength, and entrepreneurial spirit truly stood out to me,” Clooney said.
“Through the art of traditional Kenyan beadwork, she has built a thriving business, funded her own education, and uplifted her family and community. Her journey is a testament to the power of creativity and determination—and an inspiring example of women empowering themselves and others.”
The star-studded ceremony was attended by notable figures including Amal and George Clooney, Charlotte Tilbury, Dame Joanna Lumley, Joseph Fiennes, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and DJ Cuppy.
The King’s Trust Awards, established by King Charles III—formerly the Prince of Wales—celebrate young people across the globe who have participated in the Trust’s programmes.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of The King’s Trust International, which has reached over 100,000 young people in underserved communities worldwide through employment, education, and enterprise initiatives.
