Rising From Nairobi’s Streets to Literary Fame, Meet Celestine Ndanu, her journey is nothing short of extraordinary. she has risen with strength, passion, and purpose. Celestine is not just a writer. She’s a cultural archivist and a powerful voice for the voiceless.
At Gazmadu Education, we are committed to amplifying the true essence of creatives—not just by celebrating their talents, but by honouring their stories, impact, and bold moves. Through Tell HER Story, we honour women like Celestine, whose words are weapons of change and whose legacy is inscribed in the souls of readers worldwide.
Why She’s Part of ‘Tell HER Story’
Celestine perfectly embodies the theme “Accelerate Action.” She doesn’t just write about change—she leads it. Her work stands strong against societal norms and expresses a deep desire for social transformation. Through her bold storytelling, she empowers women to push past limitations and break oppressive barriers.
The Passionate Storyteller
Celestine Ndanu is known for her captivating literary style and her commitment to telling powerful stories. Her work has earned international recognition. In 2022, she was the 2nd runner up for the Harambee Literary Prize for her novel Echoes of the Sojourner and her poetry collection I Choose Vayolence. She was also featured at the Mombasa Global Business Conference.
In 2024, she joined the Book Bunk and Bernardine Evaristo’s Fiction Masterclass, a prestigious opportunity for emerging literary talents.
A Voice to the voiceless
Celestine’s passion for social justice is clear in every piece she writes. Her essay “Leave Us Women” and her short story “City on a Slope” boldly challenge patriarchal systems. Her poetry collection Sthandwa Sami is a moving tribute to feminist resilience and rage.
She uses her platform Glossycreatives to mentor emerging African writers. Through her blog, she provides tools, resources, and guidance to help young creatives find their voice and break stereotypes.
More Than Words: A Creative Legacy
Celestine’s creativity goes beyond the page. Inspired by her grandmother, she crafts handmade yarn pieces and other artistic works. What began as a childhood fascination has grown into a creative business. Today, GlossyCreatives operates both online and offline, offering storytelling through art and craft.
Her work is rooted in personal experience, including surviving domestic violence and overcoming complex family dynamics. Her storytelling mission is clear—to inspire, challenge, and uplift.
About Gazmadu Education
Gazmadu Education is a creative education platform designed to equip, empower, and elevate photographers and creatives across Africa. Our vision is simple but powerful: to amplify the true essence of creatives and support them in building profitable, purpose-driven businesses.
Through transformative programs, mentorship, and community, we help creatives move from passion to profit—while embracing their unique voice and impact.
We don’t just teach creativity. We celebrate it. We invest in it. And most importantly, we amplify it.
Want more stories like Celestine’s?
👉 Pre-order the Tell HER Story magazine
👉 Share your takeaways and tag @gazmadueducation
Let’s continue to celebrate, honour, and empower women who are accelerating action across the creative space.
