GWITU, the fastest-growing Gĩkũyũ women’s organization founded in the USA by Njoki Ngacha, has just announced Mary Waceke Munene as its new CEO.
In today’s story, we’re taking you behind the scenes of Mary Waceke’s journey from Kenya to her rise as the CEO of one of the biggest Gĩkũyũ women’s organizations in the USA.
From Kiambu, Kenya, to Silicon Valley
Mary was born and raised in Kiambu County, Kenya. Her family valued education, so she excelled through primary and high school before joining the university. Initially, she wanted to pursue Actuarial Science at JKUAT, but her grandfather persuaded her to switch to a Bachelor of Commerce.
After completing her degree, Mary worked in Kenya for about six years before moving to the US in 2020. Four months in, she got a job offer from JP Morgan as a personal banker, but her goal was to pursue a Master’s and become a business data analyst.
As she worked at JP Morgan, she enrolled in a part-time data analytics boot camp so she could be promoted to analyst. The boot camp plus her strong work ethic paid off as she soon became a business data analyst.
Today, Mary holds a prestigious position as a business analyst and database developer at Apple Inc.
Launching her own school
Recently, Mary undertook a new venture by launching her own data analytics school, Data Networks Learning LLC.
Mary believes anyone can achieve success if they are dedicated and put in the work. This is especially true for those looking to find fulfilment in new or different fields and those who have an interest but are unsure how to start.
Her philosophy is that with the right mindset, anything is achievable. She emphasizes how critical it is to overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Should our plans not unfold as planned, Mary advocates learning from these experiences and adapting accordingly.
Mary founded Data Networks Learning LLC to provide in-demand and affordable technology courses. She is making it possible for everyone to access tech education. She hopes to encourage people to go beyond their comfort zones, chase their passions, and nurture their natural talents.
One of Mary’s recent accomplishments is a partnership between Data Networks Learning LLC and Optiven Foundation Trustee Dr. George Wachiuri. This collaboration promises to revolutionize learning for over 600 Kenyan orphans from 47 counties. She announced on a Facebook post that those selected will access training to hone skills in Data engineering, Microsoft Azure, and Data Analytics with Machine Learning.
Bridging the technology gaps
Mary’s new role comes at a critical time for African tech. Right now, very few Africans are working in fields like AI and data science. In fact, Mary recently told CNBC Africa that African companies provide less than 1% of AI training data. However, instead of seeing this as a problem, Mary sees it as a big opportunity.
She’s already taking steps to close this gap. One exciting move is her partnership with Miami Dade College. Thanks to this team-up, students who finish Mary’s program get college credits and scholarships. This will enable them to complete their college degrees in just 18 months. Also, anyone learning coding and robotics at Data Networks Learning LLC gets free AI classes at the Miami Dade College AI Center.
In another partnership with Safaricom, Data Networks Learning LLC graduates will receive mentorship, corporate training, and internship placements.
Getting the next generation ready
Mary believes that if we’re to bridge the tech skills gap, we need to capture the next generation early. This is why she has launched a coding and robotics class for kids aged 7-14. The classes will last for three months, and the content will focus on programming, web development, and virtual robotics.
Stepping up to lead GWITU
Mary Waceke’s appointment as CEO of GWITU was announced during the organization’s 2024 reunion, held from June 27th to June 29th in Dallas, TX. In her acceptance speech, Mary stressed that she was committing to strengthening the organization in every way possible.
Specifically, Mary plans to strengthen Gwitu’s investments, community outreach, and education and mentorship of the organization’s members.
Mary and the founder of GWITU, Njoki Ngacha
Her vision is to create a “vibrant, supportive environment where Gĩkũyũ women in the USA can thrive personally and professionally.”
GWITU reunion
As she takes on her new role at GWITU, Mary brings a wealth of experience in the tech industry, a passion for education, and a vision for empowering Gĩkũyũ women in the diaspora.
Her progress from Kiambu to Silicon Valley, and now as the leader of GWITU, promises an exciting future for the organization and Kenyan women in the US diaspora.
For more insights into Mary’s journey and recent achievements, visit her LinkedIn page. If you are interested in data analytics training, visit datanetworkslearningllc.com for more information. And if you are a Gĩkũyũ woman in the diaspora, visit GWITU’s website to learn how you can join the community.
Mary Waceke
Mary Waceke is the newly appointed CEO of GWITU. She is also the founder of Data Networks Learning LLC and currently works as a Business Analyst/Database Developer at Apple Inc.
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