Wandia Gichuru, a pioneering Kenyan fashion designer and entrepreneur, has been named to Forbes’ prestigious 50 Over 50: Global 2025 list, a reflection of her immense contributions to both the local and international fashion industries. Through her brand, Vivo Fashion Group, Gichuru has turned a passion for design into a global business, exporting her fashion creations from Nairobi to international markets such as Atlanta, Georgia.
Her journey into the world of fashion was far from conventional. In 2011, Gichuru, then in her 40s, made the bold decision to leave behind a successful career and dive into the fashion industry. Along with a close friend, she launched an online retail platform in Kenya, a small initiative that quickly blossomed into Vivo Fashion Group, one of East Africa’s leading women’s apparel companies.
Today, Vivo operates 29 stores across the region, with a growing presence in Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and even the United States. The company employs around 450 people, 70% of whom are women, underscoring Gichuru’s commitment to empowering women in the workplace. Her brands—Vivo Woman, Safari, and Zoya—are designed to reflect the modern African woman’s style, offering a unique blend of comfort, functionality, and affordable luxury.
Vivo’s reach extends beyond retail, with a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility where most of its products are produced. The brand’s ability to scale and maintain a commitment to quality speaks to Gichuru’s strategic vision and entrepreneurial drive.
Gichuru’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Western University and an MBA from the University of Cape Town. She completed her secondary education at Loreto Convent Msongari in Nairobi. Her blend of academic knowledge and business acumen, coupled with her passion for design, has positioned her as a transformative leader in the fashion world.
As Gichuru continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be a successful African designer, Vivo Fashion Group remains a powerful example of how innovation, hard work, and a commitment to empowering communities can create lasting impact on a global scale.
