Software engineer Rose Njeri has earned a spot on the 2025 TIME100 Next list, which highlights emerging global changemakers.

Listed under the Advocates category, the 35-year-old was honored for her impact during the national protests against the 2025 Finance Bill.

In June, she created a digital platform that enabled citizens to submit feedback on the Bill—an app that reportedly overwhelmed Parliament’s email systems.

She unveiled the platform on X, which led to her arrest on allegations of breaching Section 16 of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, a law that prohibits unauthorized interference with computer systems.

She was later released after the courts found that the prosecution’s case did not meet the legal threshold for a valid charge.

The web developer quickly drew international attention, with civil society groups framing her case as part of a broader clampdown on civic tech and digital activism in Kenya.

According to TIME, Njeri is now leaning into her role as an advocate for change. “She says authorities ‘want to ignore us like we are not part of the process as citizens,’ adding, “We shouldn’t just sit back and watch.” TIME wrote.

“This recognition is not just mine but belongs to everyone who has walked this journey with me, challenged me, and inspired me to keep going,” she wrote on X.

The TIME100 Next list spotlights 100 rising leaders and changemakers across fields such as business, entertainment, sports, politics, health, science, and activism—celebrating those shaping the future rather than just those already in power. Its purpose is to recognize and elevate emerging voices making a real impact.

Now in its fifth edition, the list showcases influential figures globally in areas ranging from Climate and Technology to Art, Storytelling, and Activism. According to TIME, the broad mix of honorees reflects the diversity of leadership and influence in 2025.

Past TIME100 figures and other global leaders were invited to pen tributes for this year’s honorees.

Among the notable names featured are afrobeats star Rema, actor Damson Idris, tennis player Taylor Fritz, and footballer Lamine Yamal, among others.