This archive report was first published on 29 November 2019.
'Follow the right path and success will be yours to savour' ¶
Published on November 29, 2019, by Simon Mburu
Lizzie Muthoni Wanyoike is a testament to the power of determination and hard work. A teacher by profession, she has built a successful business empire in Kenya, with a technical college and a hotel that has created over 500 jobs.
Wanyoike's journey began with a passion for education and a desire to create opportunities for young people. She started NIBS Technical College, which offers training in technical and business studies from Artisan to Diploma levels. The college has become a hub for young people to gain practical skills and knowledge.
However, Wanyoike's success was not without its challenges. She faced stiff competition from older institutions and had to navigate complex relationships with local banks. Despite these obstacles, she persevered and eventually borrowed Sh300 million from two local banks to start her hotel business.
As a woman entrepreneur in Kenya, Wanyoike has faced numerous challenges, including making enemies and facing insults and bad publicity. However, she has learned to stay focused on her dream and to avoid making enemies. She has also learned the importance of putting every effort into ensuring she buys her own premises, which has allowed her to expand her business and create more opportunities for young people.
Wanyoike's entrepreneurial endeavours have had a positive impact on young people in the country, and she has been recognized for her success with the prestigious EY Entrepreneur of the Year award. She believes that success requires a lot of hard work and that nothing good comes on a silver platter. She advises young entrepreneurs to stay focused on their dream and to do what it takes to make it come true.
Looking to the future, Wanyoike plans to put up a preparatory school, which will be her last project. Her children are already involved in the business and are ready to take over from her. Wanyoike's story is a testament to the power of hard work and determination, and she serves as an inspiration to young entrepreneurs in Kenya and beyond.
