In Conversation with Nani's Cafe Party

In Nairobi, a quiet revolution is taking shape, one where good music, community, and connection take centre stage over cocktails. Nani’s Café Party is part of this cultural shift, championing the art of intentional gathering through Africa's first sober party experience. Founded by Zanelle Wanja, Sendey Lenaonla, and Sean Mwerebi, Nani’s Café Party invites people to choose coffee over cocktails and conversation over chaos, proving that joy and connection don’t need to be intoxicated.

Across Africa, social life has long been woven around nightlife from bars, clubs, and celebrations that often leave little space for stillness or sobriety. But as more young people embrace lock-in culture and wellness-centred living, spaces like Nani’s Café Party are reimagining what it means to go out.

Each event blends Afrohouse, soul, and eclectic world sounds, with DJs intentionally curated for the emotional journey they create. Set in unexpected venues from cosy cafés to open-air padel courts, the parties become immersive experiences for rhythm and reflection to coexist. It’s not just about the absence of alcohol — it’s about the presence of intention.

ourppls caught up with Sean Mwerebi from the Nani’s Café Party team to talk about creativity, community, and building spaces that nurture genuine connection.

How would you describe the kind of care or change your work brings?

Important — that’s the word I’d use. What we do is really about helping people reconnect with their childlike selves, reminding them that fun doesn’t have to come with alcohol. In a way, we’re nurturing the lost art of the hangout; simple, genuine connection.

What’s one thing people don’t always see about what you do?

Honestly, there’s a lot of rejection and a lot of ‘maybe next times.’ It’s rarely as seamless as it looks and more often than not, the final product looks nothing like the initial plan. But we’ve learned to embrace that process, and we’re always grateful for how well the end result is received.

If you could dream big, what would the impact of your work look like in your community five years from now?

In five years, I see Nani’s Café Party evolving into a festival-worthy experience — one that brings together music, community, fitness, and wellness under one vibrant umbrella. The ultimate goal is to create something that genuinely improves people’s lives, inspiring balance, connection, and joy on a larger scale.

If you could ask your community one question, what would it be?

Is the fun you are having nurturing you?

What Nani’s Café Party is building is more than a nightlife alternative, it’s a blueprint for how African cities can rethink joy, creativity, and connection in ways that honour wellbeing. In a world that often glorifies excess, their work reminds us that care can be cool, that presence can be powerful, and that creativity can lead culture toward healing.

Follow Nani’s Café Party on Instagram @naniscafeparty and join the community for Volume 9 on November 8th, 2025.