Wandia Gichuru, co-founder and CEO of Vivo Activewear, is one of Africa’s most celebrated entrepreneurs. Known for her sharp business acumen and unrelenting passion for innovation, she has built Vivo Activewear into a household name in Kenya’s fashion industry.
Beyond just a business leader, Gichuru represents a modern African entrepreneur—one who is reshaping perceptions, empowering women, and creating opportunities across the continent.
Born in Montreal, Canada, to a Kenyan father and a Canadian mother, Gichuru’s roots run deep into both cultures. Raised in Kenya, she attended Kilimani Primary School and Loreto Convent Msongari High School.
She later pursued a degree in Economics at the University of Western Ontario and earned an MBA from the University of Cape Town in 1996. Her rich multicultural background and strong educational foundation have played a key role in shaping her global perspective and business philosophy.
Vivo Activewear, which she co-founded in 2011 with Anne Marie Burugu, has transformed the local fashion scene by designing activewear that reflects the unique tastes, lifestyles, and body types of African women.
Under her leadership, the brand grew from a single store to a chain of outlets, becoming a pioneer in affordable yet stylish athleisure and everyday wear. In 2017, Vivo Activewear was named the Kenyan Fashion Brand of the Year—a testament to its impact on the market and its role in promoting locally designed and manufactured products.
Her unwavering commitment to empowering women is astonishing. On her Instagram page, she advocates for women to be recognized and empowered.
As an investor on the popular “Lion’s Den” show, she has mentored and funded promising entrepreneurs, demonstrating her belief in the power of mentorship and community.
Her work is more than just about building a successful business; it’s about fostering a culture where women feel confident, celebrated, and capable of pursuing their dreams.
Being a female entrepreneur in Africa is no small feat, and Gichuru’s journey has not been without its challenges. Yet, her success is an inspiration to countless young girls across the continent.
She has shown that it is possible to balance ambition with authenticity, success with empathy. In a world where women entrepreneurs are still fighting for equal recognition, Gichuru’s story is a beacon of hope and proof that African women are breaking barriers and leading industries.
Wandia Gichuru is more than just a business leader—she is a visionary, a mentor, and an example of what is possible when passion meets purpose.
Her work is reshaping African fashion, creating economic opportunities, and inspiring the next generation of women leaders. Through Vivo Activewear and her many ventures, Gichuru continues to redefine what it means to be a modern African entrepreneur.
