Nairobi, Kenya – August 14, 2025
Belva Digital today launched SHIFT, a flagship platform that lives at the intersection of culture, creativity, and technology. Shift is designed to unlock growth for future-ready brands. The event brought together leaders in tech, marketing, and creative industries like Fred Kithinzi, Serah Katusya, Ali Hussein, Betty Njiraini, Simaloi Dajom, Charisma, and Tosh Gitonga, among others.
Taking place at Radisson Blu Upper Hill, the launch of SHIFT featured thought leaders, brand strategists, creatives, creators, and innovators sharing insights on the art of authentic storytelling in the bid to capture attention, sustain it, and build meaningful connections with today’s customers.
Under the theme “Storytelling in Ever-Changing Times,” the event tackled a core question: how do we build authentic and culturally relevant stories that drive growth for our brands now and in the future?
On introducing the concept of SHIFT, Founder and Group CEO, Fred Kithinzi elaborated that “SHIFT happens at the intersection of pressure and potential — when challenges push us to think differently and opportunities inspire us to act boldly.”
“At SHIFT, we’re not just talking about what should be done; we’re showing brands how to make it happen. We endeavour to enable all our partners to thrive in the journey from capturing attention, beyond the 3-second rule, to creating long-term connections through storytelling,” Serah Katusya, CEO of Belva Digital.
The keynote speakers shared insights that set the tone for the day’s conversations.
“Stories are not just good for entertainment, they are good for business”, Jesudetan Onasanya, Regional Partner Director, Sub-Saharan Africa at Aleph, on the power of TikTok for brands.
“Data-driven creative captures attention, pushes engagement and drives true impact”, Betty Njiraini, Regional Director, Eskimi on AI-driven creative strategies
“Creativity is intelligence having fun”, Carolyne Kendi, CEO CK Marketing Coaching Limited. She highlighted the importance of creativity and authenticity in storytelling.
For the launch, SHIFT by Belva partnered with Aleph, TikTok, Eskimi, and Primary Pictures, who are at the forefront of merging tech, culture, and creativity to deliver impactful brand experiences.
The panellists included:
- Jesudetan Onasanya, Regional Partner Director, Sub-Saharan Africa at Aleph
- Betty Njiraini, Regional Director, Eskimi
- Serah Katusya, CEO, Belva Digital
- Tosh Gitonga, award-winning film director (Nairobi Half Life, Disconnect)
- Simaloi Dajom, Head of Broadcasting, Nation Media Group
- Charisma, Kenyan Afro-pop artist and storyteller
- Carolyne Kendi, CEO CK Marketing Coaching Limited
- Clifford Kinyua – Transformation Strategist and Founder, Meroe Africa
