If you can sing, cook, design, act, farm, build or make people laugh, Kisumu has a message for you: it is time to show the world.
From October 26 to 30, the lakeside city will host the World Talent Conference (WTC) 2026 under the theme “My Talent, My Brand!” Organisers are urging schools, TVET institutions, universities, artists, professionals and other talented Kenyans to submit projects for showcasing at the five-day international event.
The organisers want to correct the idea that an innovation conference is only for scientists and ICT experts.
“This is not a conference where talent means only science laboratories, computers and ICT innovations,” Prof Humphrey Obora, founder of TATU, said.
“We want to see musicians, comedians, actors, designers, chefs, sportspeople, beauticians, entrepreneurs and many other talented people bringing what they do best.”
Projects can come from virtually any field, from music, film and fashion to agriculture, health, climate action and community innovation.
Individuals can enter alone or in teams, and the conference is open to teachers, lecturers, parents, professionals and craftspeople as well as students.
Projects need not be polished businesses: performances, prototypes, products and community solutions can all be presented within the appropriate Talent Cohorts.
Where talent meets opportunity
Organisers say investors, donors, development organisations and other potential partners have been invited to meet participants and examine projects that could attract financing, mentorship, partnerships or expansion.
“Do not come to WTC 2026 merely to listen,” the organisers said. “Come with something to show the world.”
Attendance is free, but registration is mandatory so organisers can plan for security and manage crowds. Register at www.worldtalentconference.org or email info@worldtalentconference.org.
Delegates will cover their own transport, accommodation and meals.
Hotels, transport operators, tour companies, restaurants and entertainment venues have been told to prepare for an influx of visitors, and security and medical agencies have been asked to make adequate arrangements.
The next milestone is Monday, October 5, when the conference marks its official 21-Day Countdown at The African Talent University (TATU) in Kisumu.
A final stakeholder engagement for hospitality businesses will run from 3pm to 5pm the same day.
Organisers say hosting WTC 2026 gives Kisumu a chance to become a major continental centre for talent development, enterprise and innovation, or, in their words, “The Capital City of Talent in Africa.”
