2023 Laura Fote Award Recipient

James “Jimmy” Kamau is a Captain for Kenya Airways and the Director of Kenya operations for Crossing Thresholds, a nonprofit organization that builds hope in the Kibera Slum in Kenya by building schools, feeding and enriching children, and building partnerships with local community leaders. Twenty-three years ago, Jimmy’s humble, loving family in Nairobi, Kenya and a family from New Canaan, Connecticut were brought together to write a story of hope, perseverance, resilience, patience, and passion. Jimmy’s life embodies his simple message that “no matter who you are, and where you come from, your dreams have the power to transcend your circumstances and change the world”. According to Jimmy, working with Crossing Thresholds serves as a constant reminder that there are two parts to every story; “first, the deep desire and passion in one’s heart and second, and perhaps most important, the need to use what you’ve been granted, to share it with the world and lift up others along the way.

“Transformation cannot happen on its own,” says Jimmy. He adds that, “receiving the Laura Forte Award this year marks an important milestone in my journey and reminds everyone that the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” It is with immense honor and privilege that The Gatsby Showcase Foundation celebrate and acknowledge the exceptional Captain James Kamau as the recipient of 2023 Laura Fote Award for his extraordinary achievements and the profound social impact he has demonstrated within his community.