Tess joined Pollinate Impact just as the network was gaining momentum across continents. Based in Nairobi, she brings her energy and vision to strengthening the fabric of our community through thoughtful content, interactive initiatives, and a good dose of creative magic. Whether she’s designing engagement strategies, co-creating peer spaces, or helping members feel seen and supported, Tess makes sure the network stays lively, relevant, and relational.

She brings a wealth of experience from her work in youth leadership and alumni engagement, where she focused on building safe, empowering spaces, particularly for women and young changemakers. A trained facilitator and communicator, Tess thrives at the intersection of impact, creativity, and community-building. With a background in psychology and years of experience in event planning and programme design, she knows how to turn big ideas into gatherings that matter.

Tess believes that people don’t just want to be part of a network—they want to feel like they belong. People may join networks for access or visibility, but they stay—and give back—when they feel like they matter. Belonging unlocks active participation, shared ownership, and deeper collaboration.

Her challenge is to keep that sense of belonging alive, and to help Pollinate Impact’s members see themselves as part of something bigger than their individual work.

Outside of Pollinate Impact, you’ll likely find Tess shooting hoops on a basketball court or mentoring teenagers, always finding new ways to connect, uplift, and empower.