Lizzie Wanyoike Biography
Lizzie Muthoni Wanyoike is a distinguished Kenyan businesswoman, entrepreneur, educator, and philanthropist. She was born in 1951 in Murang’a County. She grew up as the sixth-born in a family of ten siblings, facing the challenges of limited means. Her father served as a village chief, while her mother dedicated her life to being a peasant housewife.
Lizzie Wanyoike Educational Journey
Lizzie attended Gathuki-ini Primary School in Wathenge, Muranga County, before progressing to Kahuhia Girls High School in Karuri, Muranga County, where she earned her High School Diploma. Furthering her education, she joined Kenyatta University College, graduating with a Diploma in Education.
Lizzie Wanyoike Career
Early Teaching Career
In 1972, Lizzie Wanyoike commenced her career as a secondary school teacher at State House Girls’ School in Nairobi, earning a monthly salary of KSh 961. However, her aspirations went beyond working for others.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
In 1975, Wanyoike, along with her husband and business partners, founded Temple College of Secretarial Studies in Nairobi. Despite her ideas for expansion being rejected, this experience fueled her entrepreneurial spirit.
Nairobi Institute of Business Studies (NIBS)
In 1999, with savings and a bank loan, Lizzie Wanyoike left Temple College and established the Nairobi Institute of Business Studies (NIBS) in 2000. Beginning with 25 students and two teachers, she transformed NIBS into a thriving institution. By 2010, she had raised KSh134 million, leading to the construction of the institute’s headquarters in Ruiru-Kimbo, Kiambu County.
Diversification and Growth
By 2018, NIBS boasted over 6,000 students and 250 instructors across four campuses. The institute’s success showcased Wanyoike’s commitment to education and her ability to overcome challenges.
Investments and Development
Beyond education, Lizzie Wanyoike ventured into real estate and the stock market. She embarked on the development of a five-star hotel in Kileleshwa, Nairobi, with an estimated cost of KSh400 million. The hotel not only serves commercial purposes but also facilitates practical training for NIBS’ hospitality students.
Lizzie Wanyoike Personal Life
Family and Philanthropy: Lizzie Wanyoike’s personal life was marked by dedication to family and philanthropy. She balanced her entrepreneurial pursuits with a commitment to her charity foundation. The foundation sponsored numerous disadvantaged students, both at NIBS and in various Kenyan high schools.
Lizzie Wanyoike Net Worth
Lizzie Wanyoike’s financial success was substantial, with an estimated net worth exceeding $50 million. Her investments in education, real estate, and the stock market reflected her shrewd financial management.
Lizzie Wanyoike Death
Battle with Cancer
Lizzie Muthoni Wanyoike’s remarkable journey was cut short by her battle with cancer. She succumbed to the illness on January 14, 2024, at the age of 73. Her legacy as an educator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.
Sage is a financial/consumer journalist and senior editor, personal finance, of TrendsHQ. EXPERTISE: Personal Finance, Careers, Jobs, Scholarships, and Entertainment.