Alvas Onguru is a distinguished communications and creative professional with over 20 years of leadership experience in advertising, media, and global partnerships. As a Board Member and Chairman of the Membership & Strategy Committee at the Institute of Directors (IOD) Kenya, he leverages his expertise in strategic communications and corporate governance to advance director professionalism and organizational prosperity in Kenya.
As the Global Head of Communications & Partnerships at Justdiggit, a Netherlands-based NGO focused on regreening landscapes in Africa, Alvas drives global climate communications and strategic partnerships to amplify environmental impact. His career includes pivotal roles such as Chief Creative Officer at Dentsu Kenya, where he led innovative campaigns for global brands like Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, and Yu Mobile, and Creative Director at DDB-CCL, becoming Kenya’s youngest Creative Director at age 29. He also founded the Art Directors and Copywriters Club of Kenya, growing it to over 9,000 members, establishing a respected platform for creative professionals.
Alvas holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Creative Leadership from the Berlin School of Creative Leadership and Steinbeis-Hochschule-Berlin, completed between 2008 and 2021, equipping him with advanced skills in strategic and creative management. He also earned a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) from Moi University (1990–1994) and completed his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) at St. Mary’s School in 1989. His academic foundation, combined with specialized training in leadership and governance through IOD Kenya and other professional bodies, underpins his strategic vision and governance expertise.
A thought leader in digital transformation, Alvas delivered a keynote address on “Digital Governance Transformation” at the 1st East Africa Governance Summit hosted by IOD Kenya, emphasizing leadership in driving digital initiatives. His experience spans leading creative and media strategies across 14 African countries for the ZK Advertising network. Additionally, as former Chairman and President of the Mwamba Rugby Football Club, he contributed to its legacy of resilience and inclusivity in Kenya.
Alvas’s commitment to sustainable development, ethical leadership, and innovative storytelling strengthens IOD Kenya’s mission to foster a culture of trust and governance excellence.
