By Magdalene Wanja - Reporter
Kenya, 15 November 2025 - Kenya’s national carrier, Kenya Airways (KQ), has announced the establishment of an Alumni Association, a platform designed to create a meaningful and lasting space for former employees to reconnect, mentor, collaborate, and continue contributing to the airline’s ongoing story.
The initiative, an unprecedented move in the airline’s history, aims to strengthen ties between KQ and the thousands of professionals who have been part of its journey over the decades.
Many of these individuals have gone on to shape various sectors locally and abroad, making the alumni community a valuable and influential network.
In its statement, KQ emphasised that the formation of the Alumni Association is central to preserving and advancing the airline’s legacy, ensuring that the spirit, knowledge, and values cultivated within its workforce continue to thrive even after employees transition out of active service.
The airline noted that former staff remain some of its strongest ambassadors, carrying the KQ story across the world.
Group Managing Director and CEO Allan Kilavuka, who presided over the launch, described the creation of the association as a testament to the airline’s commitment to fostering lifelong relationships and recognising the contributions of past employees.
“Built on the theme ‘Once KQ, Always KQ,’ this Association creates a meaningful space for former colleagues to reconnect, mentor, collaborate, and continue shaping the KQ story beyond their time with us,” he said.
The launch event drew an impressive turnout, with more than 500 alumni coming together at the airline’s Pride Centre.
The gathering was widely described as an emotional homecoming, bringing together former pilots, cabin crew, engineers, ground staff, and corporate team members who once powered the airline’s operations.
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The event was characterised by heartfelt reunions, shared memories, and a renewed appreciation of the culture and camaraderie that has long defined the KQ family.
In addition to fostering nostalgia and connection, the association is expected to support structured initiatives such as mentorship programs, knowledge-sharing forums, and networking opportunities.
These efforts are intended to bridge generations of KQ professionals and tap into the wealth of experience accumulated across the alumni community.
The initiative has already attracted backing from several prominent partners, including ICEA LION Group, NCBA Bank, and Wanandege Sacco. Their involvement highlights the broader recognition of the KQ community’s impact and influence.
Kilavuka noted that such partnerships underscore the collective belief in the value of sustaining the bonds within the Kenya Airways ecosystem.
“Their collaboration reflects the shared belief that the bond within the KQ community is worth nurturing, preserving, and celebrating,” he added.
In its official statement, Kenya Airways reiterated that the launch of the Alumni Association marks the beginning of a renewed and enduring chapter—one that extends the airline’s story beyond its active workforce.
“The Alumni Association is more than a platform; it is a commitment to stay connected, uplift one another, and ensure that the KQ family continues to thrive for generations to come.”
