Wandia Gichuru began her career in international development, but her true calling emerged in the world of fashion.

In 2011, she co-founded Vivo, starting with a modest two-person store in Nairobi.

What began as a small venture has blossomed into a thriving fashion empire with 29 physical stores across Africa and a fast-growing e-commerce platform, Shop Zetu.

In 2024, her bold vision took an even greater leap—she opened her first U.S. store in Atlanta, Georgia.

With Kenyan President William Ruto himself attending the grand opening. He proudly recognized Vivo as “East Africa’s largest fashion brand.”

At the heart of Gichuru’s business is a mission to create opportunities.

Every piece of clothing sold by Vivo is designed and manufactured in Kenya, providing jobs and empowering local talent.

“In a part of the world where unemployment is a major issue, we must see the potential of this industry to create more jobs,” she has emphasized.

Her impact has not gone unnoticed.

In 2025, Gichuru woke up to the extraordinary news that she had been named to Forbes’ 50 Over 50: Global list.

An honour reserved for women over 50 making a significant impact in their fields.

Overwhelmed with gratitude, she took to social media to celebrate the achievement.

Not just as a personal milestone, but as a victory for everyone who has been part of her journey.

She credited her success to a vast ecosystem of people—her nearly 500 staff members, over 100,000 customers, suppliers, investors, and even critics.

“Every single one of you plays a critical part in our growth and learning, and for that, we are deeply grateful,” she shared.