What does it take to build a movement where stories transcend borders, voices find freedom, and African creators take charge of their own narratives? For Gathoni Ngumba, the answer lies in empathy, collaboration, and an unyielding belief in the power of storytelling. As one of the leading figures shaping Africa’s podcasting ecosystem, Gathoni has become a driving force behind a digital revolution, amplifying authentic African voices and building communities through sound.
When Gathoni joined Afripods in 2019 as Community Manager, podcasting across the continent was still uncharted territory. Data was scarce, creators operated in isolation, and industry infrastructure was minimal. Yet Gathoni saw opportunity where others saw challenge. Through deliberate community-building and tireless advocacy, she transformed Afripods into a dynamic hub connecting thousands of podcasters from Nairobi to Lagos, providing a platform to share, learn, and grow together.
Her work at Afripods laid the foundation for something even greater: Story Palette, the training and coaching company she founded to nurture the next generation of African storytellers. Through Story Palette, Gathoni empowers creators to craft compelling audio narratives, refine their storytelling craft, and discover their unique voices. For her, storytelling is not just a skill but a tool for identity, culture, and connection. Story Palette is therefore more than a company; it is a bridge between aspiration and opportunity.
Gathoni doesn’t just talk about podcasting; she lives it. As co-host of the Okay Kiasi Podcast, she brings her perspective as both a creator and an advocate into every conversation. Her experiences behind the microphone allow her to understand the struggles of African podcasters firsthand, from limited access to resources to challenges in monetization and distribution. This dual insight, both managerial and creative, positions her as a rare voice of authority in the African audio landscape.
Her influence extends beyond her personal projects. As a board member of the Association of Podcasters and Voice Artists (APVA), Gathoni works to professionalize and unify Africa’s fragmented podcasting scene. She champions initiatives that promote data-driven decision-making, collaboration, and inclusivity, all essential ingredients for a thriving creative industry. Through mentorship and policy advocacy, she continues to shape how African content is produced, distributed, and celebrated.
Gathoni’s contributions have earned her recognition on platforms such as New Era of Leaders and in industry events like Africa Podcast Day 2025, where she is celebrated as one of the new-generation leaders redefining digital storytelling. Yet beyond the accolades, her greatest fulfillment comes from the growth of others. “Watching someone I worked with get a better-paying job made me proud,” she once shared, reflecting her belief that true leadership is measured not by titles but by impact.
In a world increasingly shaped by narratives, Gathoni Ngumba stands as a steward of authentic African storytelling. Her journey from community strategist to industry leader mirrors the evolution of podcasting on the continent: bold, innovative, and deeply human. By building spaces that amplify underrepresented voices and teaching others to do the same, Gathoni is not just creating podcasts; she is shaping the soundscape of modern Africa, one story at a time.
