Kenyan youngster Ethan Gwendo has made history by being the only Kenyan, and possibly the only African, nominated for the prestigious Youth Athlete of the Year awards in the United States.
The Florida-based athlete is among five finalists in the Colossal competition, with the winner set to pocket $25,000 (KES3.2 million), earn a feature in Sports Illustrated through a 3BRAND campaign, and take home bragging rights as the official Youth Athlete of the Year.
The 16-year-old, who grew up in Kenya before moving to the US, says his biggest dream is to one day don the Harambee Stars jersey and represent the country at the international level.
“My heart is proudly Kenyan,” Gwendo said. “My dream is to one day play for the Harambee Stars, our National Team, and eventually go professional. Winning this award would not just be a personal victory — it would be a chance to show that Kenya raises athletes who can shine on the world stage.”
The Youth Athlete of the Year contest, which began on July 28 and runs until October, is one of the biggest youth sporting platforms in America. It celebrates talent, discipline and determination, while also supporting the Why Not You Foundation and the V Foundation for Cancer Research.
For Gwendo, being part of the contest is more than recognition. It is a story of resilience and sacrifice, having been raised by a single mother who worked tirelessly to keep his dream alive.
“This journey hasn’t been easy,” Gwendo shared. “Every step of my athletic career has been fueled by the love and sacrifices of my family. From picking me up after practice, to buying kits and equipment despite the cost, my family has carried me and believed in me every step of the way.”
The competition is not only about winning the cash prize but also about inspiring future generations. The slogan “Why Not You?” has become Gwendo’s daily motivation.
“It encourages me — and I hope it encourages every Kenyan — that we too can shine on global platforms,” he said.
Sports Illustrated, which has been shaping global sports culture for over 70 years, provides a powerful stage for young talents like Gwendo. Being featured in the iconic magazine is considered a career-defining moment for any athlete.
Gwendo hopes Kenyans back home and abroad will rally behind him as voting continues. He believes his success would not only highlight his talent but also place Kenya on the map for producing world-class athletes outside the traditional athletics field.
“Winning this competition would show the world that Kenya’s sporting talent is limitless. It would inspire other young athletes back home to dream big and believe that anything is possible,” he said.
With the final set for October, all eyes will be on the Florida-based teenager. For Gwendo, however, the competition is just the beginning. His eyes are firmly set on wearing the red, green, black, and white of Harambee Stars in the future.
