Gen Z's Cry for Respect: A Kenyan Leader's Plea for Reconciliation

Kenya's National Prayer Breakfast: Gen Z's Plea for Respect and Reconciliation The 2025 National Prayer Breakfast in Kenya witnessed a poignant speech by Rickey Bolden, who highlighted a critical issue: the disconnect between Gen Z's respect for leaders and their feeling of being disrespected. This sentiment is fueled by past events, including internet shutdowns and arrests. Bolden's speech called for an apology from leaders and emphasized the need for bridge-building. "They respect you, but they don’t feel respected," Bolden stated, encapsulating the core of Gen Z's frustration. He used personal stories of his own children to illustrate the generational gap and the need for understanding. He described instances where his children, now adults, had to navigate challenges and frustrations, underscoring the need for leaders to acknowledge and address these concerns. The event, while a prayer breakfast, served as a platform for addressing a pressing societal issue. Bolden's call for reconciliation and a more inclusive approach to governance resonated deeply with the audience. His words offer a potential path towards healing and fostering stronger relationships between generations and leaders in Kenya.