Linet Chepkorir, affectionately known as Toto, made history in 2022 when she became the youngest elected Woman Representative for Bomet County at the age of 24. Born in 1997 in Chemomul, Bomet, Linet’s story is one of resilience and determination. Coming from a humble background, she relied heavily on bursaries and community fundraisers (harambees) to finance her education. She eventually graduated with a degree in procurement from Tharaka University, where her leadership qualities first began to shine.
Despite her youth, Linet consistently took on leadership roles during her schooling, which laid a solid foundation for her eventual entry into politics. Her rise to political prominence took many by surprise, with some initially dismissing her candidacy. However, Linet was undeterred, focusing on gaining the trust of her community. Her big break came when she won the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) nomination for the Woman Rep seat, defeating nine more seasoned candidates in the process.
Linet’s journey wasn’t without challenges. She was initially barred from attending important political gatherings and faced skepticism from older political figures. Nevertheless, with the support of local leaders, such as Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok, she launched a powerful grassroots campaign that resonated with voters, especially the youth and women.
Her victory was a defining moment not just for her, but for Kenyan politics as a whole. As Woman Representative, Linet has committed to focusing on the empowerment of women, youth, and people living with disabilities. Her story of overcoming economic and societal obstacles to become a leader at such a young age has inspired countless young people across the country, proving that dedication, resilience, and a strong vision can make anything possible.
Happy birthday to Linet Chepkorir—her journey continues to inspire!
