The Core Team
Leadership That Defines Our Direction
Meet Esther Mwaniki
Founder of Lapid Leaders Africa
At the helm of Lapid Leaders Africa (LAPID) is Esther Mwaniki, a visionary whose passion for empowering youth has transformed lives across Africa. With a stellar academic background from New York University and extensive professional experience at PricewaterhouseCoopers and Guaranty Trust Bank, Esther founded LAPID with a clear mission: to equip young leaders with the skills to drive meaningful change.
Under Esther’s leadership, LAPID boasts an impressive 89% employment rate for graduates within six months and a 67% promotion rate within a year. Her innovative approach has earned her recognition through prestigious awards like the Obama Foundation Fellowship and the African Women in Public Service Fellowship by the Oprah Winfrey Foundation.
Esther’s dedication to fostering leadership and creating opportunities reflects her belief in the power of young leaders to shape a better future. At LAPID, we’re proud to follow her trailblazing vision, turning potential into progress.
Meet our Circle of Elders
In the heart of Lapid Leaders Africa, our Circle of Elders is more than a collection of wise mentors; they are the women guardians of our values, the architects of our vision, and the beacons that guide our path.
Wahu Kaara
Wahu Kaara is a force of nature, a tireless advocate for social justice whose influence reverberates globally. From her pioneering role in founding the Kenya Debt Relief Network to her impactful work with the UN Millennium Development Goals, Wahu's dedication to human rights and equitable development is unparalleled. Her wisdom in navigating complex social issues inspires us to tackle challenges with courage and clarity.
Jael Mbogo
Jael Mbogo is a trailblazer whose legacy is woven into the very fabric of Kenya’s political and social reform. As a founder of the Forum for the Restoration of Democracy and a passionate advocate for women's rights, Jael has reshaped Kenya's political landscape. Her journey from breaking barriers as a shorthand typist to contesting parliamentary seats reflects a life committed to progress and equality.
Brigadier Njoki
Brigadier Njoki is a living testament to bravery and resilience. As a Mau Mau veteran who took up arms in the struggle for Kenya’s independence, her courage and commitment are the cornerstones of our national freedom. Her dedication to preserving indigenous knowledge and fostering unity reminds us that true leadership involves deep roots and enduring legacy.
Together, this Circle of Elders embodies the principles of vision, resilience, and transformative leadership. Their collective expertise and unwavering commitment to our cause provide a rich foundation upon which we build our future, ensuring that every step we take is grounded in the wisdom of those who have paved the way.
Meet Core Team Members
Caroline Ndirangu has been a key advisor to Lapid Leaders Africa since its inception, offering strategic guidance and support. She also mentors young women within Lapid, helping to shape their leadership journey and contribute to their development as future leaders. Caroline brings over 20 years of expertise in advisory, consulting, and management to her role as CFO at Southbridge Group. Her proficiency includes operational effectiveness, risk management, and finance, with deep insights into African cultural and political contexts.
Previously serving as our General Manager, Lenny Wachira now lends his expertise as a Lead Coach on a volunteer basis. With a knack for strategic thinking and a people-oriented approach, Lenny excels in equipping individuals and teams with essential life and leadership skills. His extensive experience in coaching millennials navigating complex, VUCA environments and his passion for guiding midlife individuals in discovering their purpose make him a pivotal force in our team.
Ivy Wainaina, a Product Development Manager, brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as a Salesforce Developer and consultant. Having worked for the first certified Salesforce Consultant and Silver partner in Kenya and East Africa, Ivy’s expertise in product development and leadership coaching enhances our offerings. She volunteers, leads and supports marketplace cohorts, driving innovation and excellence in all pillars of our program.
As the Programs Coordinator at Lapid Leaders Africa, Faith Omondi oversees key projects with precision and dedication. Her role ensures that our programs are executed effectively, driving forward our mission to empower young leaders. Faith’s organizational prowess and project management skills are critical to the success of our initiatives.
Leon Kariuki serves as a Program Coordinator, managing the day-to-day operations of our current cohort undertaking the Lead Self Pillar. His involvement extends beyond Lapid Leaders Africa as he actively engages with teen culture through his role as a facilitator at his local church. Leon’s dedication to youth development and his operational acumen ensure that our programs run smoothly and effectively.
James Murithi, President of the Lapid Leaders Council, plays a crucial role in providing logistical support and guidance to our cohorts. With a dynamic leadership style, James has transformed novice engineers into experts through his innovative highway design course. His commitment to personal development and his vision for merging technical excellence with leadership make him an inspiring leader in the built environment sector.