By the Alumni Relations Office
Agatha Loyce Gwokyalya is a driven and accomplished individual who graduated Cum Laude in 2018 from USIU-Africa with a BA in Journalism. During her time at the university, Agatha's dedication and talent in journalism were fulfilling as she was the Best Journalism Student for that year, setting the stage for an impressive career journey.
After graduation, Agatha embarked on her professional journey, starting as a TV Producer at NTV-Uganda in 2018-2019. Her work in the industry allowed her to gain valuable experience and insights into media production, content creation, and the power of storytelling through various media channels.
Currently, Agatha has found her passion as a Social and Digital Media Content Coordinator in the USA. Her role involves strategizing and executing digital media campaigns, engaging with audiences on social platforms, and ensuring that brands create compelling and meaningful content that resonates with their target audience.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Agatha is a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of ALG Concept. Under this brand, she offers Digital Marketing consulting and services, helping businesses enhance their online presence and develop effective marketing strategies. Additionally, she grows her personal brand in content creation, crafting her online identity and leveraging social media for her personal branding.
Inspired by her experiences and academic pursuits, Agatha decided to enroll in a Master’s program for Applied Media Psychology. Her aim is to further her expertise in digital media consultancy, with a focus on helping organizations to promote responsible media campaigns, fostering media literacy among individuals, and contributing to better the ethical media. Her passion for this field was ignited during her time at USIU-Africa, where she delved into media theories and developed a keen interest in the psychological aspects of media consumption and its impact on human behavior.
Agatha's commitment to work-life balance and overall well-being sets her apart as a well-rounded individual. She strongly believes in the importance of finding harmony and happiness in every aspect of life. In line with this belief, she is working on developing a digital product designed to help adults manage their work-life balance frustrations and discover contentment in all aspects of their lives.
In the pursuit of work-life balance, Agatha draws inspiration from Thomas Merton's words: "Happiness is not a matter of intensity but of balance and order and rhythm and harmony." This sentiment perfectly aligns with her approach to life, where she strives to strike a healthy equilibrium between work, personal pursuits, and relationships.
As she continues her journey, Agatha remains driven by Orison Swett Marden's philosophy: "Work, love, and play are the great balance wheels of man's being." These words remind her of the importance of nurturing one's professional ambitions, cherishing personal relationships, and finding time for leisure and personal growth.
With her passion for media psychology, digital marketing expertise, and commitment to well-being, Agatha Loyce Gwokyalya is making a positive impact in the media industry and beyond. She credits USIU-Africa as having played a crucial role in shaping her aspirations and fostering her dedication to creating a positive and responsible media landscape. As she continues to make strides in her career and entrepreneurial ventures, Agatha remains an inspiration to fellow alumni and aspiring media professionals alike.
Subscribe to Agatha’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ALGConcept/about
Get social with Agatha on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alg.concept/, LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/algconcept/, and Twitter - https://twitter.com/ALGconcept
By the Alumni Relations Office
Nasikiwa is the founder of AFRAT Agriculture Company Limited. She is currently serving in International Labour Organization as Senior Communications and Information Management Assistant for the United Republic of Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda. She has more than 10 years’ experience in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, and Banking fields, having worked in various private and public organizations.
She holds a Master’s degree in communications from the Walden University Minnesota, USA, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from USIU-Africa and Post Graduate Diploma in Management in Foreign Relations from the Centre of Foreign Relations Kurasini, Tanzania.
She is also a certified Director and member of the Institute of Directors in Tanzania (IoDT) as well as Certified professional in social media and Email Marketing by the University of Stellenbosch, South Africa.
Nasikiwa is keen on community and plays a big role in it by elevating women and young Tanzanians by levelling the playing fields through creation of opportunities for them both economically and socially. She also supports the government in provision of safe and reliable health services especially to children with cardiac diseases.
She is a believer of structural and strategical change to the community and country at large. Her efforts have always been backed up by her motto, ready for change.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Anne Keah is the Head of the Governance Service and the Secretary of the Executive Committee at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Geneva, Switzerland. In this role, she oversees the UNHCR’s engagement with the Member States of the Executive Committee and ensures the compliance for obligatory reporting to the United Nations General Assembly.
Anne holds a B.A. and M.A. in International Relations and graduated top of the International Relations class at undergraduate. While at USIU-Africa, Anne participated in the 55th Annual Conference on United States Affairs at the West Point Military Academy in New York in November 2003. She also served as the Executive Secretary of the Students Affairs Council in the same year.
She joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kenya in 2007, as Third Secretary, where she graduated top of the class at the Foreign Service Institute. She rose through the ranks to the post of First Counsellor and specialized in multilateral diplomacy. Anne has served two tours of duty at the Permanent Mission of Kenya to the United Nations Office in Geneva between 2008 and 2013 and later between 2018 and 2021. Anne has participated in numerous multilateral engagements on behalf of Kenya.
In March 2021, she won the UNITAR Best Female Negotiator Award for the successful facilitation and adoption of the UNHCR multi-year work plan. In 2020, Anne was the Rapporteur of the UNHCR Executive Committee and supported Kenya’s Chairmanship of the Meeting of States Parties to the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention, under the leadership of Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva. In 2018, Anne represented the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the National Technical Committee on the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework and was part of the delegation that negotiated Kenya’s position in the Formal Consultations for the Global Compact on Refugees. Anne enjoys reading, traveling and is big on family.
By Alumni Office
Barnabas Suva is the Membership and Administration Manager at the Association of International Schools in Africa (AISA) and a CPA-qualified finance and administrative professional with a successful background spanning over ten years in the NGO and International Education Sectors.
He graduated with a Masters of Business Administration in 2018 and a Bachelor of Science in International Business Administration in 2016 from USIU-Africa. He also has a Business Writing certificate from the University of Cape Town, South Africa and a Teaching Assistant Diploma from Penn Foster University, USA. Additionally, he graduated from Strathmore University as a Certified Public Accountant and he is a member of Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK).
He recently published an article dubbed “International curricula giving an edge to East Africa’s budding innovators” in the East African newspaper (August 27 – September, 2 2022). Barnabas is passionate about international education and is thus very proud to be serving in the international education sector.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Beth Wambui Mwangi is the founder and CEO of MyWagePay Ltd., a Kenyan financial wellness company. Beth is an entrepreneur, a solutions provider and a trailblazer in the Kenyan Fintech scene, being one of the few female startup founders in the country. She was ranked among the Top 10 leaders under Westerwelle Foundation’s Young Founders Programme in 2022 and was named an AfricaBerlin Network (ABN) Ambassador in June to facilitate the connection of startup ecosystems across Africa and Berlin.
Beth founded MyWagePay Ltd. which has been awarded a Digital Credit Provider (DCP) License by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK). The Fintech company which was founded in November 2020 offers financial wellness services to corporate employees in the form of financial education and earned wage access. It is among the 10 firms awarded the license out of 288 applicants after submitting an application and meeting the stringent requirements in line with the CBK regulations released in March 2022.
Additionally, MyWagePay has been selected for an accelerator program that seeks to propel startups to launch operations in the United States as well as the TechBridge Invest Accelerator Program starting in late September 2022. Today, MyWagePay manages a number of leading corporate employers in Kenya including the College of Human Resources (CHRM), Maanzoni Lodge, and Sanic Logistics as some of its partners receiving financial wellness services. The company works to enhance corporate employee’s financial health and boost productivity. Additionally, she is an administrator of two thriving Facebook groups with over 1.2 million members.
Beth’s journey towards attaining her MBA began just when the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country in March 2019, but was determined to pursue her studies.
“With the marginalization of many women in corporate setup, I wanted to prove to everyone that it was possible for a female to succeed. I almost gave up when COVID-19 disrupted normal learning patterns but quickly took up the opportunity when online studies continued at USIU-Africa,” she added.
Beth has a background in education having graduated with a BA. Education, and worked as a teacher in various high schools before branching into her current career in finance.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Bina Maseno is the Founder and Executive Director of Badili Africa. She graduated from USIU-Africa in 2016 with a BA in Journalism, and has worked as a journalist at K24, a communications specialist and has been a political aspirant in the 2013 elections.
The challenges of her experience running for political office as a 23-year-old woman inspired the founding of Badili Africa. As a mentor, facilitator & moderator, she has been invited to & led global discussions across initiatives like the Obama Africa Leaders Program, the Bill and Melinda Gates Goalkeepers event in New York, USA on the "Power of Women Movements" in a session moderated by Melinda Gates, the African Union regional meetings and the most recent ones by the United Nations Population Fund Africa in Gambia on Governance & Accountability and Women in Dev on Gender and Leadership.
She has extensive work experience on gender democracy, human rights, gender mainstreaming, politics and governance. Badili Africa merges beauty with civic dialogues for political awareness and involvement with governance and democratic processes in Africa. Badili Africa strengthens the leadership capacity of women and girls in the informal settlements and learning institutions by encouraging and cultivating spaces that enable grassroots women and girls to organize as leaders to influence local development plans, policies and programs in ways that prioritizes their needs and those of their communities. She continues to use her voice to encourage and champion women's participation in politics, leadership and governance as well as actively participate in the broader discourse of governance as active citizens. She envisions a Kenya where the citizens are educated in the tools of civic power, their rights, responsible citizenry and are problem solving contributors.
Bina was a contestant on the recently concluded Ms President Season 2 Finale show, which aired on KTN Home every Thursday at 8:00 pm, where about 700 women with commendable backgrounds and from all works of applied to the Ms. President Leadership Academy. The show pushed for women’s representation in governance, highlighting high ranking women and encouraged the public to visualize women in leadership, culminating in a campaign, where Bina emerged as one of the top 6 candidates, and ultimately as 1st runner's up.
To track how Bina performed on the show, follow her on her social media handles: Twitter/Facebook/Instagram: @binamaseno. You can also follow Badili Africa on its social media handles: Twitter/Instagram – Badili Africa (@badili_A), Facebook – Badili Africa
By Alumni Relations Office
Brian Marwa graduated with a Bachelor of Science in International Business Administration (Concentration in Entrepreneurship) from United States International University-Africa in 2021, where he was also the head of communications for the Tanzanian students' community.
Brian is currently a Tax Associate at Deloitte, where he reviews financial records, prepares and files tax returns, works on corporate tax compliance, and assists with tax audits for various clients. He also consults with clients, responds to their questions and concerns, leveraging his knowledge to contribute to the tax department's knowledge management. Brian is also pursuing his CPA in Tanzania to further his business acumen and knowledge of the Tanzanian accounting and tax landscape. His experience in tax spans a wide range of organizations in various industries including financial services, telecommunication, energy and resources, agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and service sector where he has carried out tax compliance, tax audits, and tax advisory.
Brian further gained valuable experience as a student research assistant at Agri Frontier, where he helped to analyze agricultural transformation models and policies. He has a strong interest in research and policy work aimed at developing small businesses.
He is a result-driven, collaborative, and motivated professional who continually seeks to learn and grow in the field of tax and business.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Aikande Clement Kwayu, a social scientist with experience in academia, business and development work, is a vivid manifestation of “Education to take you places”. Aikande has published two academic books: (i) “Religion and British Development Policy”- Palgrave (2020); and (ii) co-authored “Pragmatic Faith and the Lutheran Church in Tanzania: Erasto N. Kweka’s Life and Work” – Lexington (2020). Aikande is a part-time lecturer at the University of Tumaini Makumira.
Between 2018 and 2022, Aikande was an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. From 2013 to 2015, she was a research affiliate of the University of Oxford (UK). Aikande has a PhD in Politics and International Relations from the University of Nottingham (UK). In business, Aikande manages a life insurance company (Bumaco Life Insurance) in Tanzania. Being both an academic and business woman reflects transferrable skills and readiness to learn, explore and move to places beyond comfort zones. Dr. Kwayu, holds a BA and an MA in International Relations from USIU-Africa.
By Alumni Relations Department
I am an Accountant by profession. I joined PriceWaterHouseCoopers (PWC) in 1978 to train as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). I was transferred in 1984 for an International Exchange Program with PriceWaterHouseCoopers in the UK Firm and based in their Manchester office. I had the privilege to work in many parts of the UK and handled major client assignments. In 1986, I was promoted to the position of Assistant Audit Manager in the firm. I returned back to Kenya towards the end of that year. I re-joined PriceWaterHouseCoopers Kenya office and was posted to their Mombasa office where I rose to become the Regional Manager. In 1988, I was transferred to Nairobi Office and appointed staff and planning manager responsible for the audit staff. I earned promotions every year and by 1990, I was promoted to the position of Senior Manager which was the highest staff position below partner level.
In 1993, I left to join commerce and industry and worked for major companies such as Dolphin Group, Sameer Group, East African Cables Limited, Firestone E. A Limited, Sameer Africa Limited, Kensta Group, Deacons Group. Majority of these companies had operations in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Mauritius, South Africa. I was promoted to many ranks and held senior managerial and board positions such as: senior manager, General manager / CEO, Group Finance Director, Group CFO, Group Operations Director, Comptroller Finance, Commercial and Operations Director. I left commerce and industry in 2016.
Academically, I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Magna Cum Laude – GPA of 3.78) – class of 2000 and an MBA in Strategic Management (best student with a GPA of 3.77) – class of 2002 from USIU-Africa. In 2015, I graduated with an earned a PhD. in Business administration (specializing in Entrepreneurship and small business development) from the University of Nairobi. In 2017, I taught a Master of Science class for one semester at the University of Nairobi, standing in for one of my Doctoral thesis examiners, Professor Jackson Maluu. Since 2018, I have been an adjunct lecturer in the School of Business at KCA University and teach and undergraduate and masters students.
My hobbies include: community service - principally helping the less fortunate to pursue their education. I am keen and active environmental conservation with a focus on transformation of ASAL to productivity – to exploit their full potential particularly in employing contemporary technology in agriculture to foster agribusiness and quality life.
I joined USIU-Africa as a mature student at the age of 40 years in 1998 and completed my undergraduate degree in 2000. As much as I had graduated with a first degree, there was a new demand at the job market and in particular in commerce and industry for managers to have master’s degree. This was because the business operating environment in Kenya was becoming more dynamic and complex and especially with the introduction of the Structural Adjustment Program (SAP) in the country by the Brenton woods institutions the World Bank and IMF. The consequences being the opening of the Kenyan economy to global competition. Business planning was becoming a challenge because of the unpredictable and fast changes in the macro environment. I therefore felt the need to gain more knowledge in order to adequately respond to the ever-changing business environment in the country, which was adversely affecting many businesses and hence my reason for enrolling for an MBA majoring in strategic management in 2000. USIU–Africa was my choice for my MBA because of the flexi time study program – availability of evening and weekend classes which worked well for me, a good and predictable learning environment, experienced and student-centric faculty and administration staff, a blend of mature students from industry enabling the sharing of experiences, multicultural environment, focused and committed leadership and of course the best state of the art library (then Doctor Lilian Beam Library) in the region - the engine of knowledge.
When I reflect back and think of USIU -Africa, I always remember its mantra: Education to take you places. It holds true since the education that I received has had a tremendous and positive impact in my career and personal life. It gave me an extraordinary knowledge, courage and confidence that I never had. It prepared me to look at problems as challenges and gave me the bundle of knowledge to apply including critical thinking skills in resolving challenges whether at personal, group, institutional or a country level. I became a solution-oriented person. The education at USIU-Africa, took me places by way of: career and employment opportunities to work in high profile organizations, earn promotions. I have earned recognitions, respect and honor, visited diverse countries, interacted with the low and mighty, earned me admission (courtesy of my Master’s degree) to the University of Nairobi to pursue a PhD. It has and continues to take me places that I would never have been If I did not have that education. It has taken me from the corporate world to the classroom as a lecturer to share by way of giving back to society. It has given me a high profile, rewarding and fulfilling career.
I am proud that my children decided to join USIU-Africa at different times of their individual academic lives, it was their choice. But perhaps having been a student at the University, it had a tremendous impact on their choice. They used to visit me during Saturday classes and have a good time playing at the gardens and having meals at the cafeteria as they waited for my classes to finish so that I could join them to start the weekend. They enjoyed the environment very much, which should never be taken for granted for you never know its related impact to those who come into contact with it in their decision making to join USIU-Africa in years to come. USIU–Africa, was the only University they knew and had visited and was therefore not surprised by their choice of USIU-Africa.
I never vetoed their choice, I had no reason to do so. I was confident that they would be in safe hands and in addition they will get an education to take them places. I knew USIU–Africa will offer them: quality education, a good learning environment with a double accreditation, flexible timings, multicultural environment, opportunities for growth such as work study, graduate assistant opportunities, academic advisors for guidance, unrestricted electives, student support system, a holistic life, travel opportunities, extra-curricular activities and benefit from an active student council - which one of my daughters during her academic life at USIU-Africa, she served as a member, Secretary, Vice President and finally as President!
Dr. Ambrose Ngere is a distinguished Consultant Clinical Psychologist/Therapist, operating his private practice in the vibrant city of Nairobi, Kenya. As the esteemed proprietor of Ogwedhi Health Clinic located in Kahawa West on Kamae Road, Dr. Ngere offers his expertise in a convenient and accessible location, merely 200 meters off the Eastern Bypass. Additionally, he extends his services to Golden Homes Apartment, where he operates from suite no 6 in Westlands, conveniently situated opposite the renowned Westgate Mall.
Dr. Ambrose Ngere earned his Doctor of Psychology degree from USIU-Africa, honing his expertise in the field of clinical psychology. Throughout his academic journey, he acquired a diverse array of skills, including proficiency in Group Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
With a wealth of experience under his belt, Dr. Ngere specializes in providing comprehensive psychotherapy services catering to a myriad of psychological issues. His areas of expertise encompass marital counseling, adolescent guidance, substance abuse treatment, diagnostic assessments, management of various mental health disorders, and crucial psychosocial support for children grappling with psycho-developmental challenges, along with their caregivers.
Dr. Ngere's professional journey is adorned with diverse experiences, having served in various settings, including refugee camps. This extensive exposure has equipped him with a profound understanding of gender dynamics, children's issues, and the imperative aspect of protection in culturally diverse environments.
Through his unwavering dedication and expertise, Dr. Ambrose Ngere stands as a beacon of hope and support for individuals and families navigating the intricate terrain of mental health concerns in Nairobi and beyond.
Dr. Fatuma Ahmed Ali is an Associate Professor of International Relations at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS) of the United States International University – Africa (USIU-Africa), Nairobi, Kenya. She is a visiting faculty and an external researcher of the Interuniversity Institute for Social Development & Peace (IUDESP) of the Universitat Jaume I, Castellón, Spain. She is also an Associate Fellow at the Horn Institute, Kenya, gender advisor for the Somali Women’s Study Centre (SWSC), Somalia, Board Chair of the NGOs Coalition of Violence Against Women (COVAW), Conscious Kenya, and the Advisory Board member at the Austrian Centre for Peace (ACP).
Dr. Ali holds a European Doctorate (PhD) with distinction in “Peace, Conflict and Democracy Studies and an International MA in Peace, Conflict and Development Studies from Universitat Jaume I, Castellón, Spain. She has a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in International Relations (Hons) with minors in Sociology and Management from the United States International University - Africa.
Dr. Ali is a Gender expert, mentor and academic activist with almost 20 years of experience. She has facilitated workshops and trainings for civil society organizations, young politicians, regional diplomats in East Africa, EUCAP and security officers in both Kenya and Spain. She has extensive experience in research, publication, curriculum development/review, project evaluation and rapid assessment. She has also worked as a consultant with International NGOs, UN agencies (UNDP, UNHCR, UNODC, IOM and WFP), regional organizations such as Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the Austrian Study Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution (ASPR), Kenyan Government, and the Commission for University Education (CUE).
She has been involved in organizing several roundtables, seminar series, colloquium and international conferences. She has published numerous peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, briefs, opinion pieces, one edited and self-authored book in both English and Spanish languages. Dr Ali has won several research grants and awards. She is also a recipient of the prestigious Peace Prize 2020 award of the City of Castellon (Premio Por la Paz Ciudad de Castellon), Spain.
By Alumni Relations Department
Dr. Lunar Odawa is a practicing Clinical Psychologist/Consultant and Child Therapist in her private practice in Nairobi, Kenya. She founded Blossom Psychotherapy Services which offers psychotherapy, psycho-educational assessment, coaching and employee assistance programs in Kenya and beyond. She is a results-driven professional with a proven track record in psycho-social support, education program coordination, employee assistance programs and executive training.
Dr. Lunar holds a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology, and an M.A in Counselling Psychology from USIU-Africa and Bachelor of Education degree from Kenyatta University. She is a trained life coach and leadership coach and has undertaken several courses in child therapy.
Dr. Lunar is specialized in designing and implementing impactful initiatives, such as Njoo Dada, a teenage mothers safehouse. Her proficiency in clinical assessments, intervention strategies, and therapeutic approaches enriches her ability to design and implement initiatives that effectively address the complex psycho-social dynamics in diverse settings for children and adults.
Her passion for people development and mental health advocacy has enabled her to facilitate seminars, workshops and be invited as a keynote speaker in organizations and events both locally and abroad.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Felix Yvan Rugwizangoga is a Chief Strategy Officer at the Rwanda Green Fund. The Rwanda Green Fund aims to support poverty reduction and sustainable wealth creation by providing strategic financing that accelerates Rwanda’s commitment to building a strong climate resilient and green economy. Felix is a USIU-Africa alumnus who graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor's degree (Cum Laude) in International Business Administration. Thereafter, Felix did a Master's degree in International Development from the University of Manchester through the prestigious Chevening Scholarship.
Prior to being the Chief Strategy Officer at the Rwanda Green Fund, he worked with the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation where he was in charge of partnerships for Africa. Before this, he worked with the German Multinational, Beiersdorf AG, as a Business Development Manager for Rwanda and later as the Key Accounts Manager at the cluster headquarter.
Alongside other experts in trade facilitation, Felix Yvan contributes to articles for the United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business (UN/CEFACT). UN/CEFACT is a subsidiary, intergovernmental body of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) which serves as a focal point within the United Nations Economic and Social Council for trade facilitation recommendations and electronic business standards. Apart from that, Felix also represents Rwanda on the Strategic Trust Fund of the Climate Investment Fund (CIF).
To catch up with more of his achievements, interact with Felix on LinkedIn @Felix Yvan Rugwizangoga.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Joan Nyambura Thuo, popularly known as Joan the Career Coach, is the founder of JoanwinningCV. She graduated from USIU-Africa in 2009 with a BA in Psychology. She excels at career coaching, interview preparation, presenting client skills in a compelling manner and boosting client confidence in the process. She believes that every job seeker, no matter the level of employment or industry, needs a well-crafted CV, a five star optimized LinkedIn profile and a cover letter that tells the story of their career and makes the reader sit up and take notice.
Joan is on a mission to help individuals obliterate the glass ceiling, soar all the way up the corporate ladder and take a seat at the big boss table where they belong. She utilizes her expertise to help individuals overcome self-doubt so that they can confidently articulate their value (on paper, online and in person), and position themselves for success in today’s highly-competitive job market both globally and locally. After working with her, clients have landed their dreams jobs, gone from absolutely no call backs to several interviews lined up, been recruited for high-level positions and built enough confidence to actually turn down offers simply because they weren’t the right fit.
Storytelling is in her blood, utilizing this skillset, she authored Purposeless Bride and recently published a podcast dubbed Careerwise which seeks to help individuals scale upwards in their career journey. She has also featured in TV and Radio Shows. Some of these shows include: Career danger signs by NTV; Interview preparation and CV writing by Radio Maisha; Use of social media for employment opportunities by Blazespaces; and Qualifications vs Experience by Family Radio.
Catch up with Joan for career tips on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn @Joan The Career Coach.
By the Alumni Relations Office
USIU-Africa alumna, Mrs. Jondo Malafa Obi, in recognition of her service to the Cayman Islands was recently awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) as part of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s 2022 Birthday Honors & 70th Anniversary Jubilee. Jondo is the Executive Director of the Cayman Islands Red Cross and has successfully changed the strategic direction for the organization over the last 18 years.
As an auxiliary to the Government, the Red Cross plays a prominent role within the national response mechanism of the country supporting national emergencies including the recent COVID-19 pandemic response and the Hurricane Ivan response in 2004 which devastated 85% of the infrastructure of the Cayman Islands.
In the Spring quarter of 1989, Jondo arrived at the once known Mayfair Hotel in Westlands and joined USIU-Africa to commence a Bachelor’s degree in International Business Administration which she completed in 1992. She returned a year later to complete a Master’s degree in International Business Administration. Some of her fond memories of USIU-Africa during that time was meeting fellow students from various countries and hanging out at the “Visions Nightclub” on Thursdays which was themed “Spaghetti Night” specifically created for USIU-Africa students.
On completion of her studies, she was hired by the United Nations, where she was assigned to Kigali Rwanda from 1999 - 2000 and worked with various UN organizations, including; the Peace Keeping Mission in Rwanda (UNAMIR); the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the United National International Criminal Tribunal (UNICTR). She continued her career and was re-assigned to Congo Brazzaville and worked with the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) where she occasionally served as head of Country Office in the absence of the Country Director.
Previous awards include receiving the Certificate & Badge of Honor from the Cayman Islands Government and a 10-year service award from the Lions Club of Tropical Gardens, Cayman Islands where she served as a board member and sat as Chair of several committees.
By Alumni Relations Department
After graduation, Lawrence was assigned the task of managing one of the most successful rally teams in the Kenyan Rallying circuit winning various titles over a period of four years.
In 1997, Lawrence left for West Chester University Pennsylvania, to pursue an MBA in management and graduated in 1999. In 2001, he added a second concentration in Finance & Economics.
Lawrence worked in investment banking at one of the leading banks in the United States until 2014 when he left to join FrontPoint Group, a global healthcare consulting firm specializing in diplomatic and expatriate communities. An agile and innovate company with a footprint in five continents, FrontPoint has grown to be a market leader crafting affordable solutions in partnership with Cigna Global Health Benefits.
An occasional golfer, Lawrence enjoys spending time with his two sons. He hopes to see the establishment of a memorial park in honor of the departed at USIU-Africa and enroll for a PhD. program at his alma matter.
By Alumni Relations Department
Mohamed Asad, popularly known as Alby is the founder of M. Alby Productions Ltd., a brand that handles Corporate Digital Marketing and Film Production. He graduated from USIU-Africa in 2022 with a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism.
He is a young media personality who rose to fame by spreading joy to random strangers around Kenya. From cheesy lines that bring smiles, to touching stranger’s hearts by gifting them, ‘The King of Smiles’ holds a reputation for positive impact on the Kenyan society. His online audience, known as the ‘Mambo Nation’, a slogan derived from the creator’s unique theme of starting each video with a ‘Mambo’ and ending with a smile, hit a milestone of close to 90 Million views on TikTok, which is Alby's biggest social platform alongside Instagram and YouTube. Alby also used his popularity to spread smiles in the streets of USIU-Africa while he was a student.
The 23-year-old has not only built a name for himself in the hearts of many Kenyans but also in the corporate world where he took up marketing campaigns last year for major corporate brands such as Centum (Two Rivers Mall, Galitos, Bic, Nokia, InDrive and Fanta Africa).
To get a touch of Alby’s smiles, follow him on his social media handles: Twitter /Facebook /Instagram /YouTube
By the Alumni Relations Office
Mutana Gakuru Wanjira is a highly skilled and dynamic professional with a passion for leveraging the power of arts, culture, and communication to drive positive change. Mutana graduated from USIU-Africa in 2015 with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. With a diverse background in consultancy, creative production, and strategic planning, Mutana has made significant contributions in the cultural and creative industries (CCI) across Sub Saharan Africa.
As the Founder and Creative Producer of the African Fiction Academy, he has demonstrated a deep understanding of African cultural heritage and its potential to inspire the younger generation. Through innovative projects like the Sounds of Freedom, he has successfully connected African youth with their cultural identity, fostering patriotism and promoting the African Cultural Renaissance.
Mutana's expertise extends to various domains, including strategy development, program design, and stakeholder engagement. Notably, he played a pivotal role as a Consultant in the Cultural and Creative Industries in Africa for the Diversity of Cultural Expressions Entity at UNESCO HQ. Through this role, Mutana contributed to the development of a capacity-building program for the African film industry, leveraging digital communication solutions to drive engagement and presenting the African Film Industry report at prestigious events like the Cannes Film Festival.
Additionally, Mutana's experience as a Communications and Liaison Officer at the Gavi CSO Hosting Arrangement demonstrates his passion and commitment to promoting equitable access to healthcare and global immunization efforts. He has developed comprehensive communication strategies and coordinated initiatives such as the Civil Society Dialogue Series and the Immunization Today Podcast. Similarly, he has effectively utilized social media platforms to raise awareness and facilitate knowledge-sharing in the field.
With a Master's degree in Management & Entrepreneurship in the Creative Economy and a strong background in journalism, Mutana brings a unique blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and communication skills to every project. His ability to co-design strategies, foster collaborations, and engage diverse stakeholders makes him a valuable asset in driving inclusive and prosperous cultural and creative industries in Africa.
To catch up with the progress of his achievements, engage with Mutana on LinkedIn @Mutana Wanjira Gakuru, Instagram: @africmutana and Twitter: @AfricMutana.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Peter Oruka Odera is a renowned scholar and a seasoned thespian who graduated with a B.A in International Relations in 2016 from USIU-Africa. He has published several journals and articles on various topics including peace, national security and diplomacy, with his latest publication being on his paper titled "Traditional African Sagacious and Didactic knowledge Application" which he presented alongside other distinguished scholars from all over the world, during the 5th Biennial African Philosophy World Conference (APWC), 2023 of the African Philosophy Society in Gulu University, Uganda.
He has featured in various Kenyan TV shows including "Maria", "Nganya", "Salem", "Tujaribu", "Mafundi","Sue na Johnnie", "Aunty Boss", "New Beginnings", "Changing Times", "Mali" among many others. Additionally, he is passionate about financial markets and currently serves a Real Estate Investment Trust Consultant at Nairobi Securities Exchange.
By Alumni Relations Department
Dr. Robert Lukhanda Shibutse is a finance and strategy expert with experience in banking, insurance, cooperative and microfinance sectors and academia.
Dr. Shibutse graduated from USIU-Africa in 2019 with a Doctor of Business Administration degree (DBA) in Finance. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (Economics major) from The University of Nairobi and a graduate degree in business administration (MBA) from Eastern and Southern African Management Institute, Arusha, Tanzania. In addition, Dr. Shibutse holds CPA-K and CS-K qualification. In the co-operative sector, Dr. Shibutse holds the African Development Educator (ADE) 2016 and Madison USA De 2016 qualifications and was recognized as an International Credit Union Development Educator (ICUDE) at the Word Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU) conference in Austria 2017.
Dr. Shibutse has worked in the Banking, Insurance, Cooperative and Microfinance sectors. He is currently engaged in financial and strategic consulting at a personal level. He is a co-founder of Terigi Africa, an African investment company supporting the development of the financial sector in Africa. Dr. Shibutse is the current CEO of Real People Kenya Limited and serves as a non-Executive Director at White Ribbon Alliance (an NGO dealing with reproductive, maternal and newborn health) and advisory board member at Belva Digital, the leading tech- marketing agency in Kenya.
Dr. Shibutse believes youth empowerment and proper governance are critical for our future.
By the Alumni Relations Office
SSylvia Bosire is the COO (Chief Operating Officer) of BlipEarth - a social media start-up company based in Texas, which shows you what is trending around you. She graduated from USIU-Africa in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems and Technology. She further did her Masters in Information Systems from Kennesaw State University in Georgia. She has worked in the IT industry for more than 15 years and founded BlipEarth in 2021 together with other partners.
Blipearth is a social media platform that is designed to show the user what is currently trending in a city that they are in or in an area that they are going to. By allowing users to see what is trending, they can then choose to go to an event or location. Many people find themselves in new locations and it’s a challenge to find something fun to do in a new city or town - Blipearth is now solving that problem by showing you what is trending around you.
The application also allows users to add content (Blips) and share with their followers and friends. It allows the user to search by mile/kilometer and see what is trending around their area. If the event is trending, it shows up on a map for the user to see, so he or she can decide whether to attend or like the event. The application has options such as “follow” and “like” which allow users to discover new locations.
BlipEarth can be downloaded from play store (Android) or app store (iPhone). The user needs to register and login to interact with the application. Users can login with Facebook, Google or via email. BlipEarth recently partnered with USIU-Africa as the main sponsor of the School of Science and Technology Innovation and Hackathon event. This event brought together students from various universities in Kenya to exchange ideas and compete for the most innovative idea.
Victor Baba Emmanuel Aligo is an ordained minister and a graduate of the Master of Arts in International Relations (MAIR) from the United States International University-Africa, where he graduated at the 44th Commencement Ceremony with a GPA of 3.714 (Magna Cum Laude).
Victor Baba ministers and serves at the Reconcilers World Ministry, where he manages capacity development across all the networks of the ministry. In addition to this, he is an Alternative Dispute Resolution specialist, sought-after trainer, practitioner, and mentor to mediation enthusiasts across the world. Presently, he is a faculty member, advisor, and trainer at Accords International (India), Global University Somalia (Somalia), Settlement House, and Three C’s Met International Institute (Nigeria), respectively.
In Kenya, with refugee status, Victor Baba has practiced mediation for both for-profit making entities (law firms) and non-profit establishments, notably the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA-Kenya). Additionally, he has volunteered more than 200 hours in community organizing and building across Nairobi, Kenya.
Having established a reputation in the alternative dispute resolution world, Victor Baba was recently announced as a JAMS Weinstein Fellow and awarded a grant to undertake a semester-long program at the Harvard Law School’s Program on Negotiation (PON). The JAMS Weinstein Fellowship is considered the holy grail among jurists, legal scholars, judges, lawyers, and practitioners from around the world.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Audrey Nkirote, a USIU-Africa alumna, is the founder and lead consultant at Harpie HR Ltd. Audrey graduated from USIU-Africa in 2011 with a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.), Human Resources Management and Entrepreneurship. Armed with theoretical knowledge, she ventured into the real world and accumulated over 15 years of multi-sector exposure. This diverse experience gave her a unique perspective on the intricacies of different industries and the various challenges professionals face.
In the ever-changing landscape of today's job market, finding the right career path and securing the perfect job can be a daunting and challenging task. Many professionals often struggle to navigate through the complexities of the job search process, unsure of how to effectively present their skills and experiences to potential employers. Audrey has witnessed firsthand the struggles that individuals encountered during their job searches and the need for a holistic approach to career development.
Her organization offers a one-of-a-kind and integrated approach to the job search process, which goes beyond the traditional resume-building services. Harpie HR Ltd's methodology involves applying life, leadership, and growth coaching in job search preparation. This means that professionals not only receive guidance on their resumes and interview techniques but also gain invaluable insights into their own personal and professional growth.
Beyond her work at Harpie HR Ltd, Audrey, dedicates her time to sharing informative and challenging content through posts and webinars on various social media platforms, including LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Her online presence serves as a source of inspiration for professionals seeking guidance and motivation on their career journeys. Professionals who have worked with Audrey have not only secured their dream roles but have also experienced personal growth and fulfillment in their careers.
Audrey Nkirote's work stands as a beacon of hope for professionals seeking to level-up and find their rightful place in the professional world. Through Harpie HR Ltd, she continues to make a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals, guiding them towards fulfilling careers that align with their true purpose.
Gain some insights from Audrey on LinkedIn @Audrey Nkirote, Instagram @audrey_nkirote, Twitter @audreynkirote and Facebook @ Audrey Nkirote
By Alumni Relations Department
USIU-Africa proudly celebrates the remarkable achievement of our esteemed alumnus, Professor Victor Mbarika, Class of 1995, who has been bestowed with a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award by US President Joe Biden. This rare honor is a testament to Professor Mbarika's outstanding contributions and unwavering commitment to service throughout his distinguished career.
Expressing his gratitude, Professor Mbarika remarked, "I am extremely honored and humbled to be presented with this distinguished award by the President. I have worked hard to devote my life and career to highlighting and supporting global initiatives that have helped to lift those in poverty. It is my continuing vision to highlight these programs and bring them into the public consciousness."
The Lifetime Achievement Award, granted by the President to individuals who contribute more than 4,000 hours of service in their lifetime, is a fitting acknowledgment of Professor Mbarika's lifelong dedication to impactful endeavors. Alongside the honor of Presidential recognition, recipients are awarded a personalized certificate, an official pin, medallion or coin, and a congratulatory letter from the President.
The upcoming award ceremony, scheduled to take place at the White House later this year, will be a momentous occasion where Professor Mbarika's extraordinary contributions will be celebrated. Notably, he was recently honored by the United Kingdom's House of Lords with the African Leadership Award, joining the esteemed ranks of African leaders Nelson Mandela, Kofi Anan, and Julius Nyerere. Professor Mbarika holds the distinction of being the only academic in North Carolina to receive both awards.
Professor Mbarika is also the visionary founder and President of the Information and Communication Technology University (ICT University), with multiple campuses in developing countries, where he has spearheaded initiatives to advance education and opportunities for underprivileged communities. His philanthropic endeavors extend beyond academia, as he has generously funded numerous ICT projects and scholarships worldwide, embodying a spirit of global citizenship and compassion. His research, focusing on technology usage in resource-poor settings, underscores his commitment to addressing pressing global challenges and driving positive change.
Professor Mbarika holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Management Information Systems from USIU-Africa, a Master of Science degree in Management Information Systems from the University of Illinois in Chicago and a PhD. in Management Information Systems from Auburn University, USA. He is the Stallings Distinguished International Scholar Professor at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. A prolific scholar, Professor Mbarika has authored over 250 academic publications and received three Lifetime Achievement Awards in higher education. His contributions to the academic community extend to mentoring scholars from developing nations through multiple Fulbright grants and serving as a founding editor-in-chief of the African Journal of Information Systems.
As an alumnus of USIU-Africa, his journey exemplifies the university's commitment to excellence and service. His achievements reflect the values of our institution, and we take great pride in his accomplishments. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Mbarika on this well-deserved honor and celebrate his legacy as an outstanding representative of USIU-Africa.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Our alumna and former basketball player, Ms. Linda Mfuchi, donated Kshs. 70,000 and requested that it be utilized to support a needy student, preferably one who is actively involved in sports. Linda’s wishes were granted this Summer 2023 after her donation paid partial tuition fees for an MBA student who is a player in the University ladies’ basketball team.
The beneficiary of Linda’s generosity embodies the spirit of dedication and excellence in both academics and sports, making her a deserving recipient of such support. This donation will undoubtedly contribute to her educational journey and further her involvement in sports.
Linda is currently the Corporate Finance Controller at L'Oréal. She previously served as Senior Financial Controller, L’Oréal East Africa Ltd. While Linda's career achievements are impressive, her passion extends beyond the corporate realm. She actively volunteers with the Africa Cancer Foundation, where she devotes her time and efforts to raising awareness about cancer in Kenya. Linda's involvement in creating awareness initiatives reflects her compassion and commitment to making a positive impact in society.
Connect with Linda on LinkedIn to delve deeper into her professional journey and discover more about her outstanding accomplishments.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Dr. Veronicah Kaluyu together with the Alumni Office invited Mr. Douglas Owino to guide Senior students on career development. He gave his success story, belaboring the power of seizing opportunities and taking risks. The Placement and Career Services Office, represented by Maureen Ochola also gave a presentation on career development and personal branding.
Douglas Owino is a former recipient of the USIU-Africa Scholarship. He studied IBA Finance, graduating Cum Laude in 2012. While at USIU-Africa, he served as the electoral commissioner, one of the peer group leaders of the USAID- sponsored peer education program ‘I Choose Life’. He was also a member of the Resident Entertainment Committee. Douglas further pursued his MBA International Business in South Korea, on a Korean Government Scholarship, a scholarship he was awarded before his graduation in August 2012.
While in South Korea, he got short term assignment with National Institute of International Education (NIIED) under the Ministry of Education, he worked for Daejeon Support Center for Foreign Residents (formerly Daejeon International Centre), he was an elected leader of Kenyan Community in South Korea, and was very instrumental in facilitating and supporting three USIU-Africa GeMBA classes during their Global experience in South Korea.
Currently, Douglas is the Sub-Saharan African marketing manager for Australian based Curtin University, which has campuses in Singapore, Dubai, Malaysia, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka.
He is also the founder of MyFutureapp.org, a web-based studies, careers, university scholarship advising platform used by more than 16,000 parents and students in more than 30 African countries. MyFutureApp has been nominated as the Best Newcomer 2023 (EduTech) for the 2023 Eastern Africa Startup Awards. Additionally, he founded ThinkGlobal.Africa to help students and young people identify the immerse opportunities to study, work, live, exchange and travel across the World. He is also the author of ‘How to Win & Retain A Scholarship’ a comprehensive guide for university scholarship applicants.
Douglas is now a notable speaker and trainer on global opportunities for young people. He has successfully assisted hundreds of students to get opportunities in many destinations in Africa, Australia, United States of America, Europe and Asia. He has been invited to speak at local and international events including EduTech Africa Conference (South Africa), St. Mary’s University (Texas, USA), UN Climate Change Conference (South Korea), EAY Summit -European Economic and Social Committee (Belgium), among others.
His work has been noted globally and received several local and international awards and recognitions including being a nominee of ‘Top 35 under 35 Kenya’ (Education category)- The Agenda Kenya, British Council Global Changemakers (Belgium), Top 30 Inspirational Young People in Africa under 30 years (Youth Village, South Africa). Indeed, Douglas has lived out the USIU-Africa slogan ‘Education to Take You Places’.
To give back to the USIU-Africa community through mentorship like Douglas, reach out to the Alumni Office at alumni@usiu.ac.ke
Benjamin Makai, who works at Safaricom PLC as Senior Manager - Technology for Development (T4D) is one of the students in the first cohort of eight students who will be graduating at the 44th Commencement Ceremony in the Online MBA program, which started in December 2020.
Benjamin is an Intrapreneur, a purpose-driven Social Innovator changing the world from the inside out, and passionate about Sustainable Development. Currently, he works at Safaricom PLC, where he leads a team responsible for ideation, design, co-creation, development, launch, and transitioning of products and services that unlock new digital opportunities while delivering social impact and with a goal to position sustainability at the heart of his organization's Purpose. They leverage Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as the framework for their innovations and are guided by the principles of purpose before profit while building capabilities.
His journey towards pursuing the Online MBA began after he saw a post on Paul Kasimu’s timeline, the Chief Human Resource Officer at Safaricom, who was part of the launch of the program in 2020.
“At Safaricom PLC, we believe in learning, unlearning, and relearning, and through our 1 more skill initiative, I developed a keen interest in online learning. Prior to joining the Online MBA, I had completed over 100 online learning courses on Safaricom’s internal platforms. I had put off doing an MBA for a while, and so when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, I decided to take up the opportunity to study for the Online MBA,” he says.
“I enjoyed my studies as the program allowed me to connect from anywhere, in addition to having several ways to engage with the faculty. Lessons can be recorded for future review and revision and it is also affordable. It is efficient, and accessibility of time and place was a plus,” he added.
During his studies, Benjamin developed a keen interest in Strategic Management, and credits Dr. Juliana Namada, for her guidance and encouragement as she supervised his project, noting that Dr. Namada was instrumental in encouraging him to be confident and urging him to believe in his abilities to finalize the course on time, and to remain focused as he worked towards his dreams.
Benjamin holds a BSc. in Computer Science from Egerton University. He was also a 2020 Global Fellow in the League of Intrapreneurs, where he also serves as the current Council Member for Africa, in addition to being a member of the BMW Herbert Quandt- Global Responsible Leaders Network. He has received certifications in development of leadership capabilities from Strathmore Business School. In 2016, he was awarded a certificate of completion for the Rethinking Financial Inclusion Program at Harvard Business School, where, through the Harvard Online Business School, he is currently pursuing the Management Learning path. His final online course for the year will be at the same institution ending in November 2022 focused on Sustainable Business Strategy.
He has been instrumental in forming and managing partnerships and incubating solutions within Safaricom PLC of which some have transitioned to stand-alone enterprises such as Digifarm ( Agriculture), M-KOPA ( Energy), M-Gas (Energy), M-Tiba (Health) and propositions such as Connected Farmer, Shupavu291, GOK Fertilizer Subsidy (E-voucher) among others.
By Brenda Odhiambo
Dr. Rose Nabi Deborah Karimi Muthuri is a researcher at KEMRI Wellcome Trust. She is an experienced researcher in the areas of Health Systems, Public Health, and Psychology. She has authored 35 publications, and has authored and sold two books on Amazon. In addition to her research experience, she has also worked as a psychologist with children aged 1-7 years, young adults, persons living with special needs, and the elderly.
Dr. Muthuri is passionate about actively improving people’s lives both theoretically and practically. She credits her motivation in her work as a health systems and psychology researcher to her passion for learning and effectively applying her knowledge to improving other people’s lives.
Last year, she graduated at 24 with a PhD in Health Systems from the University of Pretoria. During her Doctoral studies, she focused on understanding and contributing to problem solving on issues related to the mental health of human resources for health specifically their happiness and well-being through research. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master of Arts degree in Counselling Psychology (Class of 2018) from USIU-Africa.
In regard to what keeps her going and what keeps her motivated, she notes that “putting God first keeps me motivated, inspired, and tenacious, even in the face of challenges. I also receive motivation and inspiration from many people and experiences. I believe that one can have many role models. This way, one can pick a trait that they like from someone, learn it, and apply it in their lives accordingly. But most importantly, the idea is never to lose one’s self-concept, because that is what makes you unique.”
She also credits the USIU-Africa Vice Chancellor for the role that she played in making her who she is, noting that Prof. Brown was instrumental in encouraging her to be confident in her abilities, and to remain focuses as she worked towards her dreams.
With over 16 years of dynamic experience in Research, Business Consulting, Teaching, Strategy Development and Implementation, Dr. Ruth Mwai’s contribution to the Higher Education Sector especially at USIU-Africa is immeasurable.
Currently she serves as the University Registrar at USIU-Africa where she leads a diverse team in both the Registrar’s and Careers Placement Services Departments. Prior to this, she served as Principal Academic Advisor in the Chandaria School of Business (CSOB). Additionally, she is instrumental in steering the formulation and ongoing implementation of the USIU-Africa’s 2021-2026 Strategic Plan.
Dr. Mwai holds a Doctorate Degree in Business Administration (DBA) Strategic Management (2018), a Masters’ degree in Counselling Psychology (MPSY) (2011) and a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) (2008) all from USIU-Africa. Her research work focuses on Strategy Implementation in Kenyan Private Universities and argues for enhancement of influences such as demographics, personality, communication and manager discretion for successful implementation of strategic plans. She is also a member of the Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM) and has published in various journals.
Her multi-disciplinary background in both strategic management and Counselling Psychology has been instrumental in propelling her achievements. The various teams she has led have appreciated her keen eye for detail, strong work ethic, critical thinking, problem solving ability, oral and written communication skills. As she continues to serve in her current position, her passion for academia continues to drive her towards high value quality impact.
Mariah Kalungu is a children’s book author living and working in Seattle, USA. Her recently published book, “AMKA! Little Lele; You’ve Got All You Need to Be Great,” is currently ranked as the #1 New Release book in Children’s Explore Africa Fiction on Amazon.
Before moving to the US, she worked as Director Contact Center at the OneUni, Inc., a mobile-first education technology and services company that partnered with top universities around the world to enable students earn university degrees primarily using smartphones. She also worked as Team Leader at NCBA and at Equity Bank Ltd.
Her inspiration to start writing children’s book came from her daughter Naima. While searching for books to buy her daughter in the US, Mariah discovered that there were very few children’s books written and published on Amazon that had an African perspective to them.
Being a writer herself from a young age, Mariah set on a journey to writing children’s books. She enrolled in a Book Launch Program at the Women’s Empowerment University in the United States, where she met her mentor and coach, Donna Partow, a bestselling Christian author and publishing coach. Mariah credits her mentor for the big milestones she has been able to achieve in starting her career as an Author. Her children’s books, written from an African perspective, seek to empower children to dare to dream the impossible, and go after their dreams with boldness.
Mariah has a Bachelor’s Degree from University of Nairobi. She also has a Master’s Degree in Strategic Management from the United States International University–Africa.
By Alumni Relations Office
Daphne Karani is a Fashion Designer, Creative Director and Entrepreneur based in Nairobi Kenya. She is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The House of SAVI, a company driven by excellence to bring transformation in the lives of people through fashion and style hence the tag line, “We brand the real you.”
Daphne who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in International Business Administration in 2018, has admirably maintained contact and relations with USIU-Africa through supporting and working with the current students. She styled and dressed student leaders for the 2022 AIESEC Club dinner as well as sponsored the Mr. and Miss USIU-Africa team with African yet contemporary outfits that they modelled through the runway during the 2022 Culture Night.
During her studies at USIU-Africa, she served as the Student Affairs Council Treasurer 2016-2017 and slowly discovered her passion in fashion and leadership. She also began projects in the slums as a volunteer offering relief, training and mentorship, under her care she has seen the transformation of addicts into agents of change in the community and criminals into leaders. It is in this process of seeing such transformation and realization of their potential combined with her passion for fashion that the House of SAVI was birthed. Since inception, it has dressed top entertainers in Kenyan Music Industry and also provided said services for high profile events.
The House of SAVI headlines as one of the fastest growing brands in the industry whose success she attributes to God. You can get in touch with her work through social media, Instagram @the_house_of_savi.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Mr. Akol Ayii (MBA- Global Business Management, 2011) is the Founder and Group Chairman of Trinity Holdings Group of Companies which has subsidiaries in various sectors including Energy, Infrastructure, Media and Technology.
With his verifiable year-after-year success of achieving revenue, profit, and business growth objectives within start-ups, turnaround, and rapid-change environments, Akol has seen Trinity Holdings Group of Companies employ over 2000 direct employees and an annual turnover of USD 500 million. Apart from South Sudan, the company has established offices in Kenya, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates.
He was also part of the team that founded the Nile Commercial Bank (NCB) which set the pace for the development of the Banking industry of South Sudan. NCB also played a very important role in the establishment of the Bank of South Sudan formerly known as the Central Bank of South Sudan.
Additionally, he is also supporting South Sudan achieve financial inclusion through mobile money transfer services through a premiere mobile money transfer services company, M-Gurush, which enable South Sudanese send and receive money locally and globally thus providing South Sudanese in diaspora channel support to their families back home.
Mr. Akol has repeatedly produced and sustained revenue and growth in dynamic and changing markets. His achievements in Infrastructure, Oil & Gas, Information Technology, Print Media, and construction speak to a highly ambitious and dedicated leader.
By Alumni Office
Rene Odanga (Class of 2019) has been admitted into one of the top History Departments in the United States of America at Emory University for his PHD, only 5-6 students get admitted to the department per academic year.
Additionally, he was awarded the prestigious George F. Woodruff Fellowship, which is a 5-year program that fully funds students with tuition waivers, medical coverage, and a generous stipend.
Rene holds an undergraduate degree in B.A International Relations, Peace and Conflict Studies, African Literature, from USIU-Africa, and he will also be graduating with a Masters of Arts, African Studies from Howard University.
By Alumni Office
Dr. Katindi Sivi is among Africa’s top six female futurists, according to Ross Dawson’s ranking. She is the founder of Kenya’s premier strategic foresight organizations, LongView Consult and LongView Futures Foundation that facilitate futures research, policy analysis, foresight strategies and trainings.
She is also the principal trainer at the Africa Foresight Lab, which she set up to foster foresight literacy in Africa - a course that anchors the must have 21st century competencies like critical thinking, complex problem-solving skills, creativity, collaboration, and adaptive leadership, among others. Dr. Sivi strongly believes that investing in Africa’s population to be future oriented will empower them to shape their personal futures and that of their communities on the continent.
Dr. Sivi has successfully integrated foresight methodologies to facilitate policy debates and futures strategies including working with the Government of Kenya’s Vision 2030 and the Executive Office of the President on the global youth unemployment initiative dubbed Generation Unlimited.
Her work so far, which includes published books and book chapters, is in the areas of: transnational crime in the Horn of Africa; youth demographics; youth employment; socio-economic and gender inequalities; governance and elections; citizen civic engagement; civil society organizations; women futures, gender inclusion and gender budgeting; health-mainly health governance and sexual reproductive health; extractives (minerals); humanitarian aid; and livelihoods, all in the African context. She is also a guest editor with Emerald Publishing.
Dr. Sivi has a PhD in Strategic Foresight from Regent University, a Master of Science in Organizational Development (Class of 2010) and a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations (Class of 2000), both from USIU-Africa. She also has Scenarios building training from Oxford University, Saïd Business School. She is a member of the Association of Professional Futurists, Collaborative futures, and the Millennium Project. To interact more with her work, please visit www.longviewconsult.com
By Alumni Office
Guided by purpose, progress and prosperity, Mrs. Diana Kolek - Olwangu is a Business Coach, a Business Strategy Consultant, and a Purpose Coach. She is also a Conference Speaker and Transformational Trainer. She has an immense wealth of knowledge and experience in business development, strategy planning, implementation & evaluation, product development, negotiation, partnership and linkages management among other skills.
Kolek is the Founder and Lead Consultant at Evoke Global, a training and consulting firm that works with entrepreneurs to strengthen their capacity to build sustainable, scalable and profitable businesses through business development services.
Through her leadership, Evoke has been able to train and consult with over 200 female entrepreneurs. Additionally, she has been able to establish partnerships with other organizations in order to secure access to financing and loans to women led businesses in Kenya.
She is also the General Manager for Kenpoise Management Services LTD, a subsidiary of Poise Nigeria. Kenpoise is a soft skills training and management consultancy firm, that is in the business of enhancing the skills of professionals in organizations and helping them exude executive presence.
She is passionate about helping SMEs and Mid-sized businesses develop, implement and evaluate their business strategies, get clarity of purpose, evoke their brilliance, develop a powerful sales machine, develop systems and structures that will systematically drive their businesses to profitability, sustainability, scalability and prosperity.
Kolek has built a network of female entrepreneurs under the umbrella of Women Building Legacy Businesses and also runs a weekly show on digital media, ‘The Process Show’. In this show she features different individuals and entrepreneurs to provide insights and valuable lessons to other entrepreneurs.
Moreover, Kolek is a Senior Adviser with Youth Alliance for Leadership and Development in Africa (YALDA), an organization with branches in over 15 countries in Africa and the Diaspora. She finds joy in helping young people discover their purpose and how they can align it to the future careers or businesses. She works with different high schools and universities through the YALDA network.
Additionally, she has worked for USIU-Africa for 14 years in different roles in the Finance Department, the latest being the Credit Control Officer, where she initiated the process of developing the credit control policy and the standard operating procedures thereof. This facilitated the increase in collection of student current debt to an average of 95% every semester. USIU-Africa has a great influence in shaping her leadership through the many roles she served in, including as the chair of the USIU SACCO supervisory committee. She also served as a panelist for the 10,000 Women Program, a USIU-Africa initiated program in partnership with Goldman Sachs and Centre for Executive & Entrepreneurial Development (CEED). She served as a student selection panelist for the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at USIU-Africa.
During her tenure as an employee at USIU-Africa she served as the Patron of YALDA USIU-Africa branch. She was then appointed as the 1st East African Regional Associate for YALDA International because of her exemplary work for YALDA in East Africa. She launched branches in Rwanda, Tanzania and Kenya. She also supported the Ugandan branch especially during the YALDA International conference in Uganda. Diana also participated in the organizing of the YALDA International conferences in Uganda, Nigeria, Botswana and Kenya.
She holds an MBA in Strategic Management (Class of 2015) and a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems and Technology from USIU-Africa. She also has certification in Strategic Management from the University of Virginia, Darden School of Business. During her spare time, she loves to dance to the salsa tunes, travel, watch movies and play with her daughter.
By the Alumni Relations Office (Courtesy: The University of Vermont)
Our M.A Counselling Psychology Alumnae (Class of 2000) Dr. Jane Okech, has been appointed as Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs at the University of Vermont (UVM) effective July 1, 2022. She will be responsible for all matters related to recruitment, professional development, evaluation, promotion, retention, recognition, and elevation of all UVM faculty.
Currently, Dr. Okech is the Associate Dean for Academic and Faculty Affairs and a Professor of Counselor Education in UVM’s College of Education and Social Services (CESS). She has been a member of faculty at UVM since 2003 and held several leadership positions including Coordinator of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program, Counseling Program Coordinator, Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Research, and Chair of the Department of Leadership and Developmental Sciences. She has also taught over 70 courses using multiple modalities.
Moreover, she is an active scholar who recently co-authored two books, Counselor Education in the 21st Century: Issues and Experiences (2018) and Group Work in Schools: Preparing, Leading, Responding (2020). Furthermore, her work has received professional accolades including the 2017 Article of the Year Award by the Association for Specialists in Group Work and the 2019 Counselor Education and Supervision Publication of the Year Award by the Association for Counselor Educators and Supervisors
In addition to her master’s degree, she holds a PhD. in Counselor Education & Counseling from Idaho State University where she has also served in several positions.
Indeed, she is a perfect example of our tagline ‘Education to take you places’. We congratulate her for her immense contribution in research, teaching and leadership as well as wish her the best as she prepares to assume her new role.
More information about her appointment can be found here.
By Dr. David Mwambari
Dr. David Mwambari is amongst the 397 early-career researchers who won the prestigious and highly competitive European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grants (valued at € 1.5 Million). Dr Mwambari’s ERC project is titled: "Traveling Memories, Silences and Secrets: Life narratives of Violence Among Refugees from Africa’s Great Lakes Region (AGLR)". The ERC, set up by the European Union in 2007, is the premier European funding organization for excellent frontier research. It funds creative researchers of any nationality and age, to run projects based across Europe.
Dr. Mwambari is a USIU-Africa alumnus (BA. International Relations, Class of 2007 and MA. International Relations, Class of 2009) and former Assistant Professor of International Relations in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at USIU-Africa. During the 2009 Commencement Ceremony, Dr. Mwambari received a Community service award for his service to the USIU-Africa community.
Currently, Dr. Mwambari is a lecturer of African Security and Leadership Studies at the African Leadership Centre in the Faculty of Social Science & Public Policy at King’s College London, UK. He is also a Colleborateur Scientifique, IACCHOS at Université Catholique Louvain (Belgium).
Dr. Mwambari's research interests include memory politics, peace, and security in East and Central Africa as well as among Afro-Diaspora communities in Europe, North America, and South America.
His publications have appeared in internationally renowned peer-reviewed journals, including African Conflict & Peacebuilding Review, Memory Studies, African Affairs, International Journal of Qualitative Methods, The Journal Leadership of Leadership and Developing Societies, and Qualitative Research. He is a co-editor with USIU-Africa faculty (Dr. Elijah Munyi and Dr. Alex Ylönen) of a volume: Beyond History: African Agency in Development, Diplomacy, and Conflict Resolution. Maryland: Rowman & Littlefield International (2020).
He has also contributed to various debates in international media such as on Al Jazeera, The Elephant and African Arguments. He is a sought-out speaker at international conferences and events. He also serves on different boards of academic institutions in South and East Africa, Europe and North America.
He started out as a self-funded student at USIU-Africa then later received many international scholarships and grants. Dr. Mwambari always takes pride in being an alumnus of USIU-Africa, as it is the University that gave him the “education to take him places.”
Peterson Njagi is an Ad Operations Services Specialist at Amazon Services Europe, S.A.R.L., based in Bratislava. He is responsible for ensuring that Amazon adheres to internal and external advertising guidelines within its growing online advertising program. In this role, Peterson continually assesses advertising standards, conducts creative review and escalation processes, and locates global guidelines as appropriate with the primary goal of maintaining and enforcing a high customer experience for the company.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Studies. After graduating (Class of 2016), he won a scholarship to study his Masters in the Slovak Republic under the Slovak Government Scholarship, which is open to Kenya on a yearly basis. Currently, he is a PhD candidate in Political Science at Comenius University in Bratislava with a focus on National Security Management and Policy Making.
He hopes to contribute positively to the ongoing Police reforms in the country by undertaking research in policing and particularly on the relationship between the Police and the community. In his dissertation, he is investigating how nodal security governance can be effectively implemented in our communities.
By the USIU-Africa Library Team
Photo: Susan Muriuki
Susan Muriuki (Class of 2019) is the founder of Consulate Magazine, the first publication of its kind in Kenya to offer an analysis of current international affairs. The magazine focuses mainly on topics within the International Relations field.
Susan holds a Bachelor of Arts (Cum Laude) in International Relations with a concentration in Diplomacy and Foreign Policy from USIU-Africa. After her graduation, she went ahead to pursue a course in Spanish Language and Literature from the University of Santiago De Compostela in Spain. On her arrival back from Spain, she decided to turn her passion for writing into a profitable venture, and established Susan & Brothers, a media startup in May of 2021.
The company has registered immense growth since its establishment. Its first four publications have been published in collaboration with embassies stationed in Kenya, including the Embassies of Mexico, Poland, Thailand and Argentina. By working with these embassies, the magazine has been able to provide a platform for them to showcase and also discuss the bilateral relations between Kenya and these countries. The magazine welcomes writers especially from the field of International Relations to contribute their opinions on current international affairs. It is also a good read for students within the same discipline. The magazine is available on Press Reader or on www.the-consulate.com, with plans to have physical copies currently underway.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Joel has over a decade experience in the communications industry, over the years, he has cemented his reputation as one of the leading public relations consultants in East Africa with an enviable reputation for quality, innovation and delivery.
His work reputation has been critically acclaimed - and has earned him major industry awards including the Superior Achievement in Brand Building award for the launch of Kenya Airways maiden flight to New York, Best Media Relations Campaign and Best Overall PR Campaign of the year for the launch of mVisa into the Kenyan market.
His unparalleled experience has seen him get appointed in both the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK) where he chairs the Media Relations Expert Advisory Panel and the Marketing Society of Kenya (MSK) where he serves as a judge, Chair of the Marketing and Gala Committee and at MSK board where he was recently elected as a Corporate Member Representative.
Joel has a firm grasp of the interplay between public relations and media relations. Having seen the gaps in the industry first hand within the newsroom, he ventured into PR with the sole purpose of delivering results-oriented PR strategies and plans tailor-made to suit the newsroom needs.
He counsels clients on how to manage crises. He specializes in analyzing an organization’s potential for vulnerability through a special crisis prevention audit. He has helped brands such as Safaricom, Kenya Airways, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, Telkom, Bolt and Procter and Gamble navigate through crises strategically and skillfully making their reputations even stronger than they were before.
Joel has a track record of success in leveraging best-in-class communications to help companies differentiate and distinguish themselves and enhance their credibility. His industry work and experience include I&M Bank, Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), Safaricom, Procter & Gamble, International Finance Corporation (IFC), Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Salvador Caetano, Glovo, Visa, Renaissance Capital, Kenya Airways, Bolt, Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, Weetabix, SC Johnson, Alexander Forbes, Prudential Life Assurance, Heritage, and Liberty and The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) among others.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism with a double concentration in Public Relations and Broadcast from United States International University - Africa. He is finalizing his Master of Arts in Communication Studies concentrating in Strategic Corporate Communication from the same institution. Joel enjoys playing touch rugby, golf, watching films and spending time with his family.
Gladys Shao is an event planner, decorator, and entrepreneur based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. She is the CEO of her own company, Eventfully, which caters to the coordination and execution of various luxury celebrations including weddings and corporate events.
After her time at USIU-Africa, Gladys realized her passion for weddings that went beyond being a great bridesmaid or wedding guest. After some positive encouragement from friends (who dubbed her a professional bridesmaid) she decided to dip her toes into the industry. This eventually led her to attend the South Africa School of Weddings to gain experience from world renown wedding planners like Colin Cowie, who has been severally mentioned in Vogue magazine.
Since then, Gladys has built her brand as one of the top wedding and event planning companies in Tanzania. She has also started an affiliate businesses, Just Shoes & More by Eventfully, a luxury shoes and accessories store that caters to bridal party needs for both brides and grooms.
Gladys prides herself in being a perfectionist, a problem solver, and an outside of the box thinker when it comes to the execution of her work. Her unique eye, can-do attitude, and passion for event planning and coordination are what drives her to excellence each time she takes on a new client.
Gladys holds a Bachelors of Arts degree in Journalism from USIU-Africa. She also holds two certifications from the South Africa School of Weddings in Wedding Planning and Luxury Styling & Floral Design.
You can catch up with Gladys’ work on her LinkedIn, Website, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram pages where she blogs, creates IGTV content, and showcases her exquisitely decorated event venues.
By Alumni Relations Office
Ronald Kibaara Meru is currently the Regional Head of Sales at Comviva Technologies Ltd. (Telecommunications Company based in India). During his tenure at Comviva, he has provided VAS solutions to Airtel Africa ranging from Mobile Money platforms to traditional VAS solutions like SMSC platforms.
Ronald has vast experience in the ICT & Marketing industry with over 20 years’ experience. Before joining this role, he worked at the Adtel Phone Company as the General Manager and was instrumental in forming one of the initial Premium Rate Service Providers (PRSPs) in the Kenyan market and helped build the community phone (Simu ya Jamii) business. He joined Adtel after having worked at the Nation Media Group Ltd in the Online & Digital division, where he developed the Nation Media website.
Ronald is a Chartered Marketer (CIM-UK) with a Post Graduate Diploma from the Chartered Institute of Marketing, he also holds a Master Degree in Strategic Management from the University of Nairobi (UoN), a Bachelor’s Degree in Information System and Technology (IST) from the United States International University-Africa (USIU-Africa) and a Diploma in Information Technology (IT) from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).
Ronald is currently the Chairman of the a Board of Directors at Muthaiga Golf club, he sits on the Board of Directors for the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) - Nairobi Chapter, he sits on the Board of Management (BOM) of Mangu High School, he is the Vice Chairman of the Mangu High School Alumni/Old boys and he also sits on the Board of Directors for Ubapesa Ltd (Digital Lending Company).
By the Alumni Relations Office
Kris is an accomplished business leader with 20+ years’ experience in creating enabling environments and building high-performance teams. Kris is passionate about the entrepreneurial ecosystem and has helped to grow many tech businesses and mentored many tech entrepreneurs on the continent. More specifically, he has extensive experience working with and helping to grow start-ups, Fintechs and Tertiary Educational Institutions.
He is a transformational leader and respected ICT champion with a passion for finding, grooming and coaching talent. He has a tenacious commitment to driving revenue and market-share growth and has always been able to explicitly envision, enable, and successfully execute high value complex projects.
He is currently the Chief Enterprise Business Officer at Safaricom where he is leading the charge to transform East Africa’s most successful Telco to transition to becoming a technology Company. Prior to this he was Managing Director of Telkom Digital where he helped grow Telkom’s Corporate Market share in a highly competitive environment, through the introduction of more innovative solutions and strategic value addition.
Kris is remembered as the youngest Telco executive to run a listed ICT company. He was instrumental in the startup of Access Kenya (Now Internet Solutions) and successfully helped it to become the first listed ICT firm on the Nairobi Securities Exchange. He then helped to expand the business’s footprint into East Africa and steering its acquisition by Internet Solutions in 2014, before exiting as its Deputy CEO, in 2016.
Kris is a distinguished fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Marketing and the Kenya Institute of Management. He holds an MBA in Strategic Management from Warwick Business School as well as an International Business Administration Degree, majoring in Marketing, from USIU – Africa.
He is also the Chair of the United States International University-Africa Council. Other past and present Chairmanships he holds include chairing the Governing Council at the Kenya Institute of Management, the Chair of the Pan African agency BTL Africa, headquartered in Ghana, and the financial solution provider Craft Silicon.
More recently, he took up a cause that is close to his heart; Board membership at the Amahoro Coalition, an African-led initiative of which he is also co-founder, that is championing the economic inclusion of refugees on the continent, majorly by way of post-secondary education.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Stacy Gathoni Wahome is a Fraud Analyst at a top financial institution in Kenya. In this role, she investigates fraud cases, assess fraud risks and analyses and detects money laundering. She recently completed her Masters in Security and Strategic Studies from Macquarie University, Australia last year at the age of 22. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology in 2018 from USIU-Africa.
Her degree fueled her passion for a more inclusive justice system. When she finished her BA, she noted that the field of counter-terrorism, national security and intelligence had fewer women professionals and she sought to do her Masters in order to see and become a woman taking up decision making spaces in the field.
Her career objective is to be a leading global academic and professional as a woman in security. She seeks to show and provide ways in which more African women can be leaders and be part of the field of security and intelligence.
During her Undergraduate studies, she was the Vice President of Outgoing Global Exchange in AIESEC and was a part of other organizing committees for other school events.
While in Australia, she worked with the United Nations Association of Australia on a project to improve the experience of women volunteers in Australia. She also participated in and completed a certification in the Global Leadership Program from Macquarie University, a program that seeks to create students that are capable global leaders.
She is currently a member of the American Institute of Industrial Security (ASIS) Kenyan Chapter and Women in International Security (WIIS).
Caption: Pheodor is an experienced marketer in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry, and a turnaround commercial leader with a track record of driving brands back to profitability and growth. He holds a degree in International Business Administration in Marketing from USIU-Africa.
Photo: Pheodor Mundia
By the Alumni Relations Office
Pheodor Mundia Njoroge is the Senior Global Sustainability Manager, Functions and Business Innovation for Unilever tasked with driving digital and financial inclusion.
Before this he was a Strategic Business Manager to the Managing Director and has been instrumental in crafting the 2021 – 2026 strategy for six East African countries with over 300 million consumers. He joined Unilever from SABMiller/AB InBev, one of the world’s largest brewers, managing all their brands in Kenya. Before this he worked at Google Cloud Computing, where he started his career driving the uptake of Google Cloud services.
Pheodor has also served as the Marketing Manager for Sunlight, the number one home care brand in East Africa, with key highlights during his tenure being driving market leadership in the laundry category and launching the first 100% recycled bottle in Africa for Sunlight scourer.
An experienced marketer in the fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry, and a turnaround commercial leader with a track record of driving brands back to profitability and growth, he has held several roles in Marketing, including leading OMO back to growth after a decade of decline and being the only cell that grew globally. He has also led the shopper and customer marketing teams in Uganda and Rwanda as well as the skin care category team.
He is the immediate former Chairman of the Marketing Society of Kenya, leading the Board and Society with a membership of over 3000 marketers through which he co-founded the National Business Compact on COVID-19 (NBCC). Through NBCC, he led a COVID-19 behavior change campaign reaching 15 million East Africans raising over 4 million euros.
Mr. Mundia holds a Bachelor of Science degree in International Business Administration in Marketing from United States International University-Africa and is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Strategic Planning at the University of Edinburgh Business School – UK. His purpose is to offer a platform to individuals to unleash their potential through offering solutions that impact lives positively.
In his free time, he restores his 1965 Opel Rekord classic car, travels with his family and enjoys live bands.
Dr. Hassan Bashir has over 22 years of experience in the insurance and technology sectors in the East Africa region, including experience in the academic world through his teaching at USIU-Africa’s Chandaria School of Business since 2001. He is an entrepreneur with deep interest in the linkages between enterprise value creation, social economic development, good governance and knowledge.
Dr. Bashir is the Founder and former Group Chief Executive Officer of Takaful Insurance of Africa Limited, a position that he held from January 2011 to September 2018. Takaful Insurance of Africa is a pioneering risk management and financial services firm with licenses in general, long term insurance and pension business in Kenya and Somalia. The company is a pioneer of the Takaful model in the East and Central Africa region and has introduced a new and exciting ethical perspective to risk management in the Eastern Africa market.
Over the last 22 years, Dr. Bashir has played critical roles in the establishment of several successful companies in the pharmaceutical, ICT and financial services sectors. Among these companies are:
Dr. Bashir has also served as a member on several boards of various prominent institutions, including:
He holds a Bachelor of Science in International Business Administration from USIU San Diego, a Master of Business Administration (Marketing), and a Doctor of Business Administration focused on Leadership and Corporate Governance, from USIU-Africa.
Mr. Mohamed Ebrahim Varvany is the Sales Director at Scania East Africa in Nairobi, in charge of increasing sales in the region, as well as providing regional support and development in Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya, having transitioned from a Product Manager at AutoXpress Limited. Sales has been Mohamed’s forte and area of expertise from a very young age; connecting and interacting with people to provide them with solutions that enable maximum returns on investment is something he does passionately.
Mr. Mohamed Ebrahim Varvany graduated with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from USIU-Africa in 2010, having completed his Bachelors of Science in International Business Administration there in 2009.
While his professional journey began with selling mobile phones, followed by a more-than-a-decade long stint in the automotive industry, Mohamed has had interactions with communities to empower and benefit them, a critical ethos of the sales concept, even during his time at USIU-Africa, beginning with successfully vying for the role of Vice Chair of the Students’ Affair Council as an Undergraduate, followed by the Graduate Representative role within the same committee while doing his MBA.
While sales has always been his strength, Mohamed understood, while studying for his Bachelor’s degree, that this would not be enough for him to fully understand the workings of an organization, which has several aspects to it that, along with sales, have to interlink efficiently for the puzzle that is the organization to be complete and successful. With this in mind, Mohamed decided to continue his educational journey by enrolling for an MBA, which went on to help his development in several ways.
The MBA curriculum gave Mohamed the opportunity to develop his knowledge and understanding in different areas like Strategy, Marketing, and Finance, among others, that enabled him to polish his core sales skill-set. Furthermore, it also helped him to become more aware of his leadership style, along with shaping his vision of the type of leader he wanted to be while working within his sales specialization.
For those starting out, Mohammed notes that it is important to find a career choice you are passionate about and accentuate this passion by getting the right education, and compliment it by adding several skills that add value and contribute to your passion in a broader perspective, and then there will be no stopping you.
Ms. Wanjiru Njendu is an award-winning filmmaker based in Los Angeles, USA, with a strong and varied background in the film industry, with a creative imagination earning her the nickname 'Magic' at a young age.
Between building up an award-winning directing portfolio with her films starring actors such as Simone Missick (CBS’s All Rise and Marvel’s Luke Cage) and Adetokumboh McCormack (ABC’s LOST and Netflix’s Castlevania), Wanjiru also has left her mark as a producer. This versatility also led to her being selected as a fellow in the Producer's Guild of America Diversity workshop.
In an effort to showcase Kenya, she produced the 5th Annual Women In Film International Committee’s Short Film Series, “Out of Africa, A Night of Kenyan Film & Culture” which was held at Universal Studios in 2011. The event which was hosted by actor Edi Gathegi and musician-actress Ida Onyango was headlined by Nobel Prize nominated author Prof. Ngugi wa Thiong’o who presented a reading of his works. It also showcased an art piece by artist Wangechi Mutu. 8 Kenyan films were presented during the event with the City of Los Angeles honoring it as one of the top 2011 cultural contributions to the city.
Wanjiru also directed the red carpet interviews with the Oscar nominated actresses for Women In Film’s Annual Pre-Oscar party, a live taping of the SAG-AFTRA / Women In Film Q&A panel for the film MISSRepresentation as well as the purple carpet interviews with the Emmy nominated actresses for the Variety/Women In Film Pre-Emmy party. The interviews showcased nominated actresses like Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, Gwyneth Paltrow, Alison Janney, among others.
In 2016, her documentary film ‘Safari ya Jamhuri: The Journey to freedom’ was used to provide evidence for a lawsuit against the British Government by the Mau Mau colonial war survivors from Kenya.
Wanjiru has studio experience having worked for both The Walt Disney Studios Company in various areas and Universal Pictures’ as part of their Creative Marketing team. While at Universal she worked on marketing and publicity on The Fast and Furious franchise, the Fifty Shades of Grey franchise, Pitch Perfect franchise, the Ride Along sequel, The Despicable Me films as well Straight Out of Compton, Get on up and the Oscar winning film Get Out. She was also part of teams that ran the Oscar campaign for films such as Angelina Jolie’s Unbroken, Fast & Furious 6, Furious 7, Lone Survivor, 47 Ronin, Sing and Trolls.
In 2020 Wanjiru was invited to become of the Member of the prestigious Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences (Oscars).
Upon leaving Universal Pictures', Wanjiru dived back fully into directing. She directed Boxed a psychological thriller short film based on the true story of the terrifying daring escape of Henry "Box" Brown, an enslaved man who used creativity to escape from slavery in 1849 by mailing himself to freedom. The film won numerous awards including Best Short film at The Hague Global Cinema Film Festival (one of the highest Human Rights film festivals) and took home Best Diaspora short film at The 2020 African Movie Academy Awards. In 2021, Boxed has been selected by the distinguished Académie des César for their Nuits en Or program which will take place in summer 2021 in Paris, France.
In addition, she was the shadowing director on the Netflix series “Daybreak” under director Mark Tonderai. Most recently, Wanjiru directed Stray, a horror proof of concept film with a feature option, which was acquired by 20th Digital Studios (a subsidiary company of The Walt Disney Company). The film is streaming on Hulu, ABC and FX networks. During the industry’s shutdown due to the pandemic she has been working on development of the feature film of Stray as well as several other films, TV series and animated projects.
Wanjiru is also the Creative Director and serves on the board of Little Einsteins East Africa which is a member of the global Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (S.T.E.M) Ed Coalition. Founded in 2016, Einsteins East Africa is a STEM Edutainment program on hands-on learning activities for Children from as young as 1 1/2 to 12 years of age using S.T.E.M. concepts, in a fun and hands on manner. Little Einsteins East Africa is based in Nairobi, Kenya and also runs STEM programs in Kigali, Rwanda.
Wanjiru holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from USIU-Africa and a Master's Degree in Visual Media and Arts with a focus on Film from Emerson College in Boston, USA.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Amb. Dr. Mary Mbiro Khimulu, MBS is currently the Executive Director of Mbiro Company, a private consulting firm engaged in Leadership and Human Behavior skills development. The firm offers advisory services in Project Management, Skill Gap Analysis, Management Training, Facilitating and Organizing Conferences and Workshops.
Amb. Khimulu has extensive Governance experience having served in Global, Regional and National Boards. These include Kenya Export Processing Zone Authority, Kenya Water Institute (KEWI), Founder Member of the Kenya Institute of Directors, Global Board of United Bible Societies, Regional Board Member of UBS Regional Committee, Bible Society of Kenya (First Woman to chair Kenya Bible Society Board), UNESCO Africa World Heritage Fund, Nairobi International School of Theology (now The International Leadership University), Amani Counseling Centre, Jesuits Refugee Services of Kenya, Skills for Southern Sudan and Our Lady of Mercy Secondary School.
She has also served as the Kenya Girl Guides Chief Commissioner, International Commissioner, National Trainer and Vice Chairman, plus Member of World Girl Guides and Girls Scouts (WAGGS) Regional Committee overseeing five African Countries. She was the Executive Director of Windle Trust, a UK Refugee Charitable Trust based in Kenya, set up the National Resource Development as its first Director at World Vision Kenya, and as a Deputy Director (Deputy Vice Chancellor-Academic and Student Affairs) at United States International University-Africa. Her experience includes working at the United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP), working as a Management Consultant and teaching in four high schools across the country.
Until June 29, 2020, Dr. Khimulu was the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Groundwater Resources Education, Training and Research in Eastern Africa Institute (a UNESCO Category 2 Centre), having been appointed by the President of Kenya in 2016 for three years and for the second term in May 2019 which ended in June 2020 when she was appointed by the President to serve as the Chairperson of Water Sector Trust Fund Board of Directors. Other roles that she has held include:
- Appointment by the USNESCO Secretary General to the Administrative Council of the UNESCO International Fund for the Promotion of Culture (IFPC);
Amb. Khimulu established the Kenya Delegation Office to UNESCO, Paris, France in 2006 as the first full time Ambassador/Permanent Delegate of Kenya to UNESCO and served from February 2006 to September 2013. While at UNESCO, she served as President of the Group of Ambassadors from Eastern Africa; Africa and Commonwealth Countries. She was elected four times as one of the Vice Presidents during UNESCO General Conferences, and served in other UNESCO Committees during her tenure.
4 out of the 7 Kenya World Heritage Sites were inscribed during her tenure and the Turkana Water aquifers were discovered through her initiatives at UNESCO. She played a major role in the appointment of the Third President of Kenya as the UNESCO Special Envoy of Water in Africa by the UNESCO Director General, and in the approval of the UNESCO Eastern Africa Office being located in Kenya. Amb. Khimulu supported the UNESCO Special Envoy of Water in Africa, H.E. Mwai Kibaki, CGH., when he carried out his mandate for 4 years.
Amb. Khimulu has also served as a Deputy Director (Deputy Vice Chancellor) and a Lecturer at USIU-Africa, where she taught students on Management, Leadership and Behavioristic Courses, and also carried other assignments including pushing for the accreditation of the University by the Commission for University Education, working to relocate the campus to its current location, overseeing the execution of the University’s teaching and learning mandate, among others.
Over the last five years, she has been a Speaker at The Centre for Human Security in Abeokuta, Nigeria organized at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library. She has consulted with the Regional Office for Eastern Africa based in Kenya, promoting UNESCO work in the region.
Amongst the honors she has received include the designation of Moran of the Burning Spear (MBS), awarded to her in 2011 by the President of the Republic of Kenya, Ambassador of Peace in 2007 by the Universal Peace Federation(UDF) in Korea, Godmother by the Professional African Women in Diaspora (AWODIAG) in France in 2012 and in 2018, the London Graduate School in Collaboration with Commonwealth University honored her with a Masters Certificate in Business Management Leadership and Doctor of Board Leaderships and Corporate Governance.
Amb. Khimulu holds a Doctorate degree in Human Behavior and Leadership (Management) awarded in 1980, having achieved double graduation on the same day in BSc. in Business Administration (Magna Cum Laude) and MSc. MOD, both in 1978 from USIU San Diego, now Alliant International University.
Ms. Faith Nkatha is a transformational and influential leader and professional in Fintech in the region with over 10 years of experience. She has both broad and deep experiences and knowledge in Innovation, Sales, Business Development, Payments, Partnerships, Leadership, Product development, Strategy, and Culture Management etc. She is known as a strategic thinker with extensive insights into how present trends will translate into the future, and how to prepare organizations for future-readiness.
Faith works as the Country Manager for Cellulant, one of the leading Fintech and payments companies in Africa. Cellulant uses technology to connect people and their resources, making it easier to do business across Africa. Their goal is to facilitate more transactions between more people so that we can all live better lives. Cellulant’s belief in providing solutions to everyday challenges across Africa has led to digitizing payments end to end for various value chains and as a result providing increased transparency and broader reach within a single mobile commerce platform for financial sector players. Cellulant believes that when we are connected, we can accomplish more, together.
Previously, she worked at the Oracle Corporation leading their Digital Transformation efforts for the Public Sector. Her last role in banking was at Sidian Bank where she worked as the Director for Strategy, Monitoring, and Transformation. She provided valuable insights and oversight to the Bank's Marketing, Customer Experience, Retail and Corporate banking operations.
Ms. Nkatha has been involved in some Government projects, where she was involved from Strategy formulation and implementation and worked closely with Cabinet Secretaries, Ministers, and Boards. As a result of her work with in the Banking and Technology industry, she has developed strong networks and working relationships with Regulatory bodies, Insurance companies, Non-Governmental bodies, Embassies, Religious bodies, Manufacturing, Oil and Gas companies, Government Ministries, and Parastatals.
Faith currently serves on three (3) boards; the Women on Boards Network where she chairs the Finance, Partnerships and Administration Committee, the LVCT Health Board, and the Inuka Africa Board. She is also a Member of the African Women in Fintech and Payments, and a trainer and mentor for the Presidential Digital Talent Program (PDTP) in addition to volunteering at the Mpesa Foundation Academy.
Faith recently graduated from Yale University and the University of California, Berkeley with an Executive certification in Leading Effective Decision making and another in Leading Innovative Change respectively. She holds a Masters of Arts in Psychology from USIU-Africa, which gives her an edge in leadership, people management, managing strategic and c-level relationships, and a better understanding of customers, their needs and how they make decisions.
Faith also has a certification in Leadership, Project Management, and Management Development from the Gordon Institute of Business Science and Strathmore Business School. As a result of her outstanding work ethic, she was nominated to join the Swedish Institute Management Program team representing Kenya in 2020.
During her spare time, Faith is usually involved in some form of adventure with family, doing speaking engagements, and encouraging and mentoring women and young people.
Ms. Pauline Nkatha Laibon is Meru County’s Director of External Partnerships and Affairs in the Governor’s office. She has 10 years’ experience in partnership building, fundraising and event management. In her position, Pauline serves in the Meru Vision 2040 delivery Secretariat for the next three years appointed and gazetted by Meru County Governor H.E. Hon. Kiraitu Murungi as part of the team to deliver Meru Vision 2040.
Prior this, she coordinated the process of developing the Meru Twaweza Program for the County First Lady and the Meru Economic and Social Council as the secretary to the management steering committee of the Council chaired by Amb. Francis Muthaura. She also served in the steering committee of the 1st successful Mt. Kenya Mountain Running championship held in Meru County in February 2020 to raise funds to construct a Cancer Center in the County.
Prior to joining the County Government, Pauline was the Resource Mobilization and Partnership manager for KANCO (formerly known as the Kenya Aids NGO’s Consortium), a membership health NGO established in the early 1990s in Kenya with operations in the Eastern Africa Region with a focus on health advocacy and or implementing health programs.
Before joining KANCO in August 2016, Pauline worked at USIU-Africa as the Internship coordinator under the School of Science and Technology; the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, and in the Admissions Department as a Financial Aid Assistant. During her time at the university, she was also part of the Graduation Committee, in addition to being a member of the team who handled the inauguration event of the current Vice Chancellor, Prof. Paul Zeleza.
Pauline holds an Executive Master’s Degree in Management and Organizational Development (EMOD) and a degree in International Relations from USIU-Africa.
Gladwell Mbugua is the Human Resources Manager for PricewaterhouseCoopers' (PwC) Advisory Business in the East Africa region. Gladwell’s experience spans over ten years with specialization in talent management strategy, human resource, business partnership, reward management, organization design, performance management and change management.
Over the course of her career, she has supported Human Resources functions at a senior level in top-tier organizations both in the East and West Africa markets. Her experience includes Human Resource management at Africa Development Bank in Abidjan, KPMG East Africa, British American Tobacco, Andela, Equity Bank, among others.
Gladwell graduated from USIU-Africa in 2020 with a Masters of Business Administration. Her career objective is to be a global transformative human resource leader who builds organizational capabilities for delivering sustainable innovation and value creation for all stakeholders.
Dr. Donald Manyala is a Parliamentary Researcher and Policy Analyst at the Parliament of Kenya, supporting information needs of Members of Parliament and its staff. Donald specializes in policy analysis and generation of evidence based research to aid decision making and legislation.
In addition to his role as a Parliamentary Researcher, Donald also serves in the Board of Trustees for the Parliamentary Service Commission Staff Retirement Benefits Scheme as a Trustee. Prior to his current role, he worked with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) as a Research and Data Analyst in the Boundaries Department.
Donald holds a PhD in Leadership & Governance from the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). He holds a Master in Business Administration (Strategic Management) and a Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management from the United States International University - Africa (USIU-Africa). He is also an alumnus of the 42nd cohort of the Young African Leadership Initiative (YALI).
Dr. Manyala has served in USIU-Africa’s Alumni Association Board as the Treasurer and Executive Committee Member. During his time as a student at USIU-Africa, he served as the Vice-Chairperson of the Student Affairs Council (SAC).
Dr. Manyala has published several publications, including “Moderating Effect of Public Participation on the Relationship between Political and Economic Relations and Service Delivery in County governments of Kenya” and “Contributions of Administrative and Fiscal Relations on Service Delivery in County Governments of Kenya". Other future publications that he has on the way include a book documenting the use of evidence in decision making in African Parliaments.
John Musunga is the Managing Director of Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL). He joined KBL on the 1st of March 2021 from GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) where his last position was that of Vaccines Market Leader responsible for Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia and Eastern Europe. John has worked in senior local, regional and global roles including being the Managing Director GSK Kenya & East Africa and also as the global Head of Supranationals for GSK’s Global Vaccines based in Belgium. He began his career as a sales representative and progressed into sales and marketing leadership roles in East Africa and South Africa.
Mr. Musunga has considerable strategic and leadership experience and repeatedly led his teams to exceed business targets, increase market footprint and grow market share. During his time in GSK East Africa, he more than quadrupling the size of business and also substantially grew jobs and employment. Outside the organization he worked, John has held a number of external positions including three years as a Non-Executive Director on the Kenya Vision 2030 Board, Chaired the Kenya HIV/Aids Business Council Board and was a past Chairman of the Kenya Association of Pharmaceuticals among others.
John is passionate about driving business results through the power of strong teams and works to create an environment where people can be at their best. He takes pride in acting as a coach and mentor to spot and develop talent and is proud of the many who he interacted with who have made successes of their careers and businesses.
John graduated in 2008 with an MBA in Marketing from USIU-Africa.
Dr. Caroline Wanjiru Karugu is Nyeri’s Deputy Governor, with over 15 years’ experience in the regional capital markets and financial services industry. She holds an MBA and DBA USIU-Africa.
By the Alumni Relations Office
Dr. Caroline Wanjiru Karugu is Nyeri’s Deputy Governor, hailing from Nyaribo, Kiganjo-Mathari Ward in Nyeri Town Constituency. Dr. Karugu has over 15 years’ experience in the regional capital markets and financial services industry, holding various leadership positions in various organizations.
Prior to becoming Deputy Governor, Dr. Karugu was the Chief Executive of Jabali Microserve Ltd, a commercial subsidiary of Jitegemee Trust, an organization dealing with Social Investments. Before this appointment, she served as Britam Group’s Senior Investor Relations Manager.
Before joining Britam in October 2013, Dr. Karugu worked for the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) as the Investor Relations and Communications Manager. At the NSE, she was the pioneering Country Manager of the Securities Industry Training Institute (SITI), an East African securities training organization with the mandate of deepening knowledge within the capital markets participants.
She was also in charge of external affairs and government relations for the East African Stock Exchanges Association (EASEA). While working at the NSE, Caroline participated in the listing of several companies, rights issues, bond offers and private placement projects.
While working as the Corporate Affairs and Marketing Manager of the Kenya Union and Saving Cooperatives (KUSCCO), Carol made outstanding contributions to the Kenyan Cooperative movement where she spearheaded efforts of organizing young people to form SACCOs.
In 2010, she won the prestigious World Young Credit Union Professionals (WYCUP) award sponsored by the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU) in the United States. This global award is given to the top 5 individuals who have made significant contributions to their credit union system and have the potential to make a global impact.
Dr. Karugu has also served in various leadership capacities across various organizations, in board and ambassadorial roles. She was among the private sector professionals appointed by President Uhuru Kenyatta to take up a board position in the Geothermal Development Company where she chaired the Board Technical and Strategy Committees and had spearheaded the restructuring of the State Corporation. In March 2020, Dr. Karugu was elected as the Chair of the Deputy Governors’ Forum and in November 2020, appointed Kenya Goodwill ambassador for Palliative care by Kenya Hospices and Palliative Care Association (KEHPCA).
Dr. Karugu holds a Bachelor of Commerce Double Major Degree in Business Administration and Marketing from Daystar University and a Global Executive MBA (Strategy) from USIU-Africa in partnership with the Frankfurt School of Finance in Germany. She also holds a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Degree in Finance from USIU-Africa in collaboration with the Columbia Business School in New York.
By the Alumni Department
Fred Murimi is the Managing Director of Centum Capital Partners Limited (CCAP), a private equity fund, managing a peak of US$250 million of private equity funds for its parent company, Centum Investment Company PLC, East Africa’s largest quoted investment company with over 36,000 shareholders and total assets of over US$ 600 million.
Fred has served in the position of Managing Director since July 2015, in which he has been responsible for the management of Centum’s private equity investments across financial services, Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), manufacturing, education, agribusiness and energy. He has driven the value creation and value realization activities in Centum’s private portfolio, which has seen the portfolio deliver a gross US$ IRR of over 20%. CCAP has also been the most active private equity fund manager in the region having achieved 5 exits in the last 5 years alone, in line with Centum’s vision to be Africa’s foremost investment channel.
In his capacity as the head of Centum’s private equity business, he sits on the board of several companies including Almasi Beverages Limited, Longhorn Publishers Limited, Isuzu East Africa Limited and NAS Servair Limited. He has previously served on the boards of Platcorp Holdings, Genafrica Limited and Kenya Wine Agencies Limited and served as Centum’s Group Corporate Affairs Director & Company Secretary from January 2013 until June 2015.
Fred has over 10 years’ experience in the investment industry. Prior to joining Centum, he worked in investment banking with Dyer & Blair Investment Bank and later with Renaissance Capital (Kenya Limited) as Vice President. Fred has also worked as a regulator with the Capital Markets Authority.
He is passionate about developing the investment industry in East Africa and has previously served on the board of the Kenya Association of Stockbrokers and Investment Banks (KASIB) and on the Board Finance sub-committee of the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE). He is a certified trainer of the NSE Securities Industry Training Institute (SITI) and has most recently been appointed as a member of the capital markets law review panel by the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) to review the capital markets legal framework to ensure its robustness in supporting a functioning financial market.
Fred holds a Bachelor of Laws degree (LL. B) from the University of Nairobi, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from USIU–Africa and is qualified in Kenya as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and as a Certified Public Secretary (CPS). He is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya, a member of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and of the Institute of Certified Public Secretaries of Kenya (ICPSK). In 2014, he was awarded Certified Secretary of the Year in the Champions-of-Governance (COG) Awards by ICPSK and is a 2015 Archbishop Desmond Tutu Fellow.
By the Alumni Department
Tony Gatheca is the Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Transcend Media Group (TMG), one of the leading full service integrated marketing, advertising and communication agencies in Kenya with a regional presence in 6 East African countries.
TMG is affiliated globally to McCann Worldgroup headquartered in New York and Mullen Lowe Group headquartered in London. An enthusiastic marketing professional with over 20 years of experience in the industry; Tony has expertise in both Above the Line (ATL) and Below the Line (BTL) campaigns encompassing strategy, creative, media buying, public relations and digital marketing.
Tony has a Global Executive MBA in Strategic Management from USIU-Africa, in collaboration with SolBridge International School of Business, South Korea, having graduated in 2013 and an undergraduate degree in B.COM, Marketing and Business Administration from Daystar University in 1998.
He served as Chairman of the Marketing Society of Kenya (2015-2017) where he instituted far-reaching policy reforms, forged new partnerships and restored credibility within the industry. He has sat in the boards of Kenya Audience Research Foundation (KARF), Advertising Standards Board, Super Brands Council and AIESEC. He is also a member of the Advertising Practitioners Association (APA) and Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK).
Dedicated to youth empowerment, Tony served as a judge and mentor in the inaugural 254 Youth Entrepreneurship Awards in 2019. With a passion of growing teams and dreams throughout the course of his career, Tony has developed award-winning advertising campaigns, engaging the youth.
True to brand, TMG conceptualized and implemented the Trust Condoms rebrand – “Kuwa True”, and the NYS rebrand – “True to self, True to Country”, that both won best rebrand and re-launch, at the MSK Gala 2012 and 2014, respectively.
‘Truth Well Told’, the driving mantra behind the success – Tony believes in producing ‘Work that Works’ and delivers on the brand promise to consumers.
Previously employed in various Media Houses over the course of a decade, including Nation Media Group; Tony was part of the pioneering commercial team of the broadcasting division that launched NTV and Nation Radio in the year 2000. Tony then joined McCann Erickson in 2002, where he learnt the ropes of agency business before returning to work in media for Radio Africa Group - KISS FM and Classic FM as an agency sales manager.
After leading the sales and marketing team at Capital FM, Capital Group Ltd since 2005, Tony embarked on his Entrepreneurial journey, founding TMG in 2010, striving to create campaigns that will transcend beyond generations.
During his free time, Tony loves to play golf at the Muthaiga Golf Club where he is a member.
By the Alumni Department
Geoffrey Odundo is the Chief Executive of the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), a position he has held for the past 6 years. He is an accomplished Investment Banker having been in the financial services sector for the last 28 years, 22 of which have been in Capital Markets.
Prior to his appointment, Mr. Odundo was the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Kingdom Securities Limited. He was instrumental in the setting up of Co-op Trust Investment Services, Co-op Consultancy Services Limited, and Kingdom Securities Limited, all subsidiaries of the Co-operative Bank of Kenya Limited.
Mr. Odundo has also held advisory roles on several corporate finance mandates in both the public and private sectors, in addition to managing key mandates in the asset management industry. He has contributed to the growth of the Capital Markets in his previous role as a Director/Board Secretary - Kenya Association of Stock Brokers and Investment Banks, Chairman of the Financial Standards Committee - Kenya Bureau of Standards as well as the Board Director of the Nairobi Securities Exchange PLC. Mr. Odundo serves as a Director of the Central Depository and Settlement Corporation (CDSC) Limited, Director of the NSE Clear Limited; and a trustee of the NSE Fidelity Funds.
He is also the Vice-Chairman of the REITs Association of Kenya (RAK), a member of the Working Committee of the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE), a member of the Central Bank Consolidative Forum for Domestic Debt Market (CFDDM), and a Council Member of the Institute of Certified Investment Financial Analysts (ICIFA). Other roles that he currently holds include serving as a board member of the Africa Securities Exchanges Association (ASEA), a Director of the East African Securities Exchanges Association, and a Member of the Thomson Reuters Africa Customer Advisory Network.
Mr. Odundo holds a Master’s degree in Strategic Management from USIU-Africa and an undergraduate degree in Mathematics and Economics. He is an Advanced Management Program (AMP) graduate from Strathmore Business School.