Humble Origins, High Aspirations
Lizzie Muthoka Wanyoike, also known as Elizabeth Muthoka, left an indelible mark as a businesswoman, entrepreneur, educator and philanthropist in Kenya. Born in the 1950s in Murang’a County, she emerged as a pioneer despite her humble beginnings in a family of ten siblings, where economic resources were limited, with her father as a village headman and her mother as peasant housewife.
Education as a Springboard
Lizzie’s educational journey began at Gathuki-ini Primary School in Wathenge, Muranga County, and she continued at Kahuhia Girls’ Secondary School in Karuri, Muranga County, where she graduated with a Secondary School Diploma. Her quest for knowledge took her to Kenyatta University College (now Kenyatta University), where she obtained a Diploma in Education.
Career and Entrepreneurship
Beginning her career in 1972 as a secondary school teacher at the State House Girls’ School in Nairobi, with a monthly salary of KSh 961 (approx. US$140 at the time), Lizzie quickly realized that her true calling lay beyond work for others. In 1975, in collaboration with her husband and other business partners, she co-founded the Temple College of Secretarial Studies, based in Nairobi.
As principal and instructor at Temple College, Lizzie Wanyoike envisioned expanding course offerings and increasing student numbers. However, her proposals were met with resistance from management. Undeterred, in 1999, with savings of KSh 6 million (US$60,000) and a bank loan of KSh 4 million (US$40,000) from Equity Bank Kenya Limited, she took a bold step. Lizzie left Temple College and founded the Nairobi Institute of Business Studies (NIBS).
NIBS: Educational Legacy
Under her leadership as founder and CEO, NIBS became a testament to Lizzie Wanyoike’s resilience, vision and educational commitment. Her journey serves as inspiration, showing how determination and entrepreneurial spirit can overcome challenges, leaving a lasting impact on Kenya’s educational landscape.
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