Twenty-two-year-old professional cyclist Saldido Leon is set to represent Kenya at the prestigious Spinneys Dubai Challenge that is scheduled for today and tomorrow.

Speaking from his home in Kilifi County on Thursday, the Coast Region 2024 Tujiamini Gold winner said that by addressing both individual potential and collective needs, Tujiamini aims at creating a lasting impact on lives nationwide, and this has been a testimony.

“Tujiamini has given me the belief and opportunities I needed to reach this stage. From local races to now competing internationally, this platform has changed everything for me,” said Leon.

Held on traffic-free streets, the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge is a 2025 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships qualifier with a fast, flat course and a variety of distances for all ages and abilities, and Leon will be the only Kenyan competing in the international event, featuring over 10,000 participants from across the globe.

Tujiamini Initiative Public Relations Lead Debra Maina emphasised that parent company Sportpesa has allocated a budget of Sh70 million for 2025 and will continue to provide opportunities for talented individuals while introducing a new focus on community empowerment. 

“Seeing athletes like Saldido Leon transition from local recognition to representing Kenya on the international stage is what Tujiamini is all about. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the impact this initiative has on lives and communities,” said Maina, adding that this year promises to uplift and discover more talents from grassroots and  uplift communities across Kenya. 

As Leon takes on the Dubai challenge, he carries with him hopes of Kenya and the undeniable proof of what belief and opportunity can achieve, and with his inspirational story, Tujiamini is now calling on talented athletes, artists, and creatives, as well as community leaders across Kenya, to embrace the opportunities it provides.