With a mission to deliver disease-modifying and potentially curative therapies that go beyond symptom management, Kenai Therapeutics comprises a team of curious, compassionate colleagues with a singular purpose: helping people living with neurological disease to restore what matters most in their lives.

So, for Kenai, giving back to the community is a natural extension of their mission, as they align their values with their actions and put time and effort into supporting community initiatives that truly make an impact. This commitment to giving back finds Kenai supporting a host of patient advocacy initiatives and research focused on Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders, as well as fundraising and community activities through the Parkinson’s Foundation and the Parkinson’s Association of San Diego.

Kenai is focused on investing in the future as well, as it prioritizes support for the next generation of innovators by expanding awareness, access and opportunities for youth in STEAM and the life sciences. One of the primary ways they achieve impacting the future is through their support of, and partnership with, Generation STEAM, Biocom’s K-12 nonprofit affiliate that’s focused on empowering the next generation of STEAM visionaries via programs and events. For the past two years, Kenai has been a key partner in two Generation STEAM programs: The San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering and Girls Who Lead Summer Externship.

“The San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering and Girls Who Lead programs provide opportunities to highlight the range of career paths available and allows our employees to engage directly with students who may not otherwise learn about roles in biotech,” said Kelli Berg, Communications Consultant for Kenai. “We believe that we all benefit from diverse perspectives in science, and both programs are incredible ways to give back to young people interested in science.”

One of Kenai’s goals is for students to feel confident pursuing STEAM and life science careers. Through participation in The Festival of Science and Engineering and Girls Who Lead programs, students are able to meet Kenai scientists, ask questions of them, and tour the company, which Kenai feels not only helps build their confidence, but ultimately makes this industry all the more approachable.

This impact, and belonging to a whole community propelling forward this impact, is facilitated in part by Kenai’s nearly three-year long Biocom membership. “Biocom has been excellent in helping us connect with the broader life sciences community in San Diego,” Berg added. “It gives us opportunities to participate in conferences and networking events; support community events; and connect with inspiring, innovative colleagues working in life sciences. There is a strong willingness to share knowledge, support one another and work together across organizations. Biocom helps bring that community together and creates space for companies at different stages to learn from one another while staying connected to the region.”

As Kenai looks ahead to 2026, it’s focused on continuing to build relationships and impact in the community and continue sharing the vital work they’re doing with neighbors, colleagues and friends.

Their work inspiring the next generation extends to ‘26 and beyond, as they continue to engage in programs and drive impact that empowers the pursuit of careers in STEAM, the life sciences and more.

What does Kenai hope students take away from their time with their employees?

“Realizing there is no single path and that students’ curiosity, creativity, and persistence will take them farthest,” said Berg. “Most of all, we hope their time with Kenai encourages them to keep exploring what excites them and to trust that they are capable of building a future that feels right for them!”