Celebrated Kenyan actress and media personality Catherine Kamau (popularly known as Kate Actress) has been appointed Global Goodwill Ambassador for the upcoming Bill Gates & Friends social movement, a landmark initiative tied to the philanthropist’s 70th birthday celebrations.
Her appointment makes her one of Africa’s key representatives in the campaign, with a mandate to spotlight voices and changemakers from Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria. The announcement highlights her influence as both a cultural icon and social advocate, capable of connecting African stories to a global audience.
A Cultural Icon Taking Africa Global
With a career spanning over 15 years across film, television, and digital media, Catherine Kamau has become one of Kenya’s most beloved entertainers. Beyond the screen, she is recognized for her advocacy, authenticity, and cross-generational appeal. She is also the founder of the Auntie Kate Foundation, which empowers vulnerable women and girls through education, advocacy, and access to essential services.
Her new role underscores her growing reputation as a continental leader in storytelling, advocacy, and social change.
Bill Gates 70th Birthday: More Than a Celebration
The Bill Gates 70th Birthday Celebration, scheduled for October 28, 2025 in the United States, goes beyond honoring Gates’ personal milestone. It will serve as a global call to action, highlighting his contributions to health, education, technology, and philanthropy.
The event will also launch the Future of Humanity Initiative, an independent philanthropic movement co-created by changemakers inspired by Gates’ legacy. With over $3 billion already pledged by international philanthropists, the initiative is designed as a “living tribute” to Gates’ lifelong vision: ensuring every child has access to food, healthcare, and education.
Catherine’s Role as Goodwill Ambassador
As Global Goodwill Ambassador, Kate Actress will:
- Onboard African changemakers to a digital campaign showcasing Gates’ humanitarian legacy.
- Collaborate with the campaign anthem artist to create a unifying anthem of innovation and service.
- Lead storytelling and engagement efforts leading up to the Monthly Humanitarian Legacy Festivals starting in February 2026.
- Support the rollout of the Future of Humanity Initiative.
The campaign will also feature digital activations, including a #BillGatesAt70 pre-birthday wishes campaign, giveaways recognizing African changemakers, and tokens of appreciation for participants.
Independent But Global in Scope
While inspired by Gates’ humanitarian legacy, the campaign is independent of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Instead, it brings together a coalition of leaders, innovators, and philanthropists dedicated to sustaining and expanding Gates’ vision for a better future.
For Catherine Kamau, the role represents both a personal milestone and a continental responsibility: to ensure that African voices remain central in conversations about global development, philanthropy, and the future of humanity.
