Abstract

Learning Outcomes

This case explores the journey of Kennedy, a young man who, driven by personal struggles and the loss of a friend, creates Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) to provide purpose and hope for his peers. Through this case, students will learn how leadership and entrepreneurship can be catalysts for social change. They will examine how Kennedy’s initiative evolved from a football club to a multifaceted social venture, incorporating theatre as a platform for youth engagement, economic empowerment, and community building. Students will explore the role of strategic partnerships in refining organizational mission and driving growth. Additionally, the case highlights the importance of leadership, organizational behavior, and change management in transforming a small community-based project into a scalable social enterprise.

Case Synopsis

A poor young man, Kennedy, is almost killed when caught stealing a mango to satisfy his hunger. When Alvin, one of his closest friends, commits suicide due to the frustration of living in poverty, he realizes that if nothing changes, his life and that of his friends will easily be snuffed out. He uses the little money he has to buy a football and starts a football club which they call - Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO). The club is a platform to unite his peers and give them a life purpose. SHOFCO expands into theatre, where young people meet and develop plays to entertain others and make some money. The plays create visibility for SHOFCO and eventually attract a young lady named Jessica, who applies to come and work with SHOFCO using theatre. Kennedy and Jessica formed a formidable partnership, helping refine the mission of SHOFCO and put the organization on a growth trajectory.

Complexity/ Academic level

This case study can be used for students at all levels, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and executive education, for leadership, strategy, organizational behavior, entrepreneurship, and change management courses. 

Supplementary Materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Keywords

Leadership, strategy, organizational behavior, entrepreneurship, and change management 

Citation

Ndunge, A., Wafula, L., & Arasa, R., (2024). Kennedy Odede – Change for the People by the People. In Strathmore Africa Case Center. Strathmore Africa Case Centre. https://doi.org/10.70268/sacc-05-24-26

Publisher: Strathmore Africa Case Centre

Copyright © 2024, Strathmore Africa Case Centre

Category : Case

Author : Loice Wafula, Robert Arasa, Angela Ndunge

Publisher : Strathmore University

Document ID : SACC-05-24-26