This archive report was first published on 2 December 2019.
From Teacher to Entrepreneur: Lizzie Muthoni Wanyoike's Journey ¶
December 2, 2019
Lizzie Muthoni Wanyoike, a dedicated teacher turned successful entrepreneur, has made a name for herself in Kenya's business world. As the founder and managing director of NIBS Technical College and The Emory Hotel in Kileleshwa, she has created numerous job opportunities and provided a platform for students to gain practical experience in hospitality.
With a passion for education and entrepreneurship, Lizzie's journey began with a simple idea - to create a business that would provide students with hands-on experience in the hospitality industry. She started The Emory Hotel with the aim of creating job opportunities and providing students with a platform to gain practical experience. The hotel has since created over 500 jobs and offers hospitality services to the public.
However, Lizzie's success was not without its challenges. As a woman entrepreneur in Kenya, she faced numerous obstacles, including stiff competition from older institutions and property disputes. Despite these challenges, Lizzie remained determined and focused on her dream. She borrowed Sh300 million from two local banks and started the project, which eventually became a huge success.
One of the most significant challenges Lizzie faced was property disputes. She rented a building in town with a six-year lease, but when the business picked up, the owners violated the agreement and kicked her out. Lizzie decided to fight back and took the case to court, winning the dispute. She learned valuable lessons from the experience and vowed to put every effort into ensuring she bought her own premises.
Lizzie's perseverance paid off when she bought shares from Equity Bank in bulk and later sold them at a good rate. She used the proceeds to buy a 10-acre piece of land in Ruiru, where she put up housing units that could accommodate 2,000 students. Her dream had finally come true, and the facility now accommodates more students and some workshops.
Despite the challenges she faced, Lizzie remains committed to her entrepreneurial endeavors. She has scooped the prestigious EY Entrepreneur of the Year award and is proud of the positive impact her business has had on young people in the country. Lizzie's story is an inspiration to many, and her determination and perseverance are a testament to the power of hard work and dedication.
