Felix Onen: Pioneering Change Through Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy

Felix Onen, the visionary behind Onen Group and the Co-Chair of Onen Global Foundation, has left an indelible mark on the world of business and philanthropy. His remarkable journey has seen the creation of enterprises spanning a wide spectrum of sectors, from travel and hospitality to real estate, media and communications, financial services, information technology, health and wellness, furniture and interior design, bakery and confectionery, and agriculture. Onen Group, under his leadership, has risen to prominence as a globally renowned brand.

Among the jewels in Onen Group’s crown is Wafoyo Safaris, a specialized safari company that offers bespoke safaris and small group tours to the heart of Africa. These journeys take you on an exploration of East Africa’s hidden gems, from the majestic River Nile to the verdant rainforests, home to Africa’s densest primate populations. You can follow in the footsteps of the legendary Dian Fossey, encountering mountain gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda, traverse vast open spaces, or scale the heights of Africa’s tallest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Discover the land of the great migration and its vast herds in Kenya, concluding your adventure by unwinding in one of the tropical paradises along the Kenyan coast or its enchanting islands.

Felix Onen’s entrepreneurial journey began in Kampala, Uganda, where he hails from the picturesque Laliya in Gulu District. From an early age, he dabbled in small businesses, thanks to the guidance of his mother, Mrs. Aparo Nyeko, and the inspiration of his late father, Engineer Sam Nyeko. Their emphasis on solving problems through an entrepreneurial lens has been a driving force in Felix Onen’s life.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Felix Onen earned a nomination from FOYA Global as the African Founder of the Year under 30 in 2020. Furthermore, in 2023, he was nominated as the African Hospitality Founder of the Year under 30 for his remarkable achievements in the hospitality sector through brands like Wafoyo Safaris, Onen Lodges, and Onen Hotels. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to addressing African challenges through entrepreneurship have not gone unnoticed.

Established in 2015, the Onen Global Foundation is a non-profit charity arm of Onen Group, dedicated to making a positive difference in the fields of education, health and research, art and culture, community development, empowerment, and climate change. Through digital literacy and education, the foundation seeks to unite people and entrepreneurial ideas to create opportunities for a better world.

Felix Onen’s passion transcends business and philanthropy; he’s also a fervent investor in motorsports and sports at large. His vision brought to life the largest and most popular motorsports racing club in Uganda, aptly named Onen Racing. With an initial investment of USD$10 million made four years ago alongside four friends, the club has not only raced to success but has also secured a spot in the prestigious African Rally Championships, making it one of the premier racing clubs on the continent.

Felix Onen’s journey is a testament to the power of entrepreneurial spirit, a commitment to change, and a dedication to giving back. His legacy, both in business and philanthropy, will undoubtedly continue to shape the landscape of Uganda and the African continent for years to come.