A Decade of Growth

My decision to join Strathmore University Business School (SBS) was inspired by a deep desire to advance my career in Accounting and Finance. I began my academic journey with a Bachelor of Business Management, specializing in Finance and Banking, at Moi University. Before graduating, I secured my first finance role at a government institution—a significant milestone that further fueled my ambition. With first-class honors in my degree, I was confident that I could pursue a Master’s degree at a reputable institution, whether locally or internationally. Upon careful consideration, I realized that only Strathmore University could satisfy my thirst for excellence in higher education within Kenya.

I followed Strathmore University closely and one day I came across an advertisement for a Graduate Assistant position. The role offered an incredible opportunity: a full-time Master of Commerce (Finance) scholarship coupled with a two-year Graduate Assistant Role. I applied and was fortunate to be selected. However, the challenge was convincing my employer to grant me time off to study. Summoning the courage to approach my boss, I was met with unexpected support—he granted me a two-year unpaid leave.

With this assurance, I embarked on the journey, completing my Master’s degree on time. Along the way, I discovered a passion for teaching and fell in love with the SBS work environment. That marked the beginning of an incredible professional journey that I am proud to say continues to this day.

The past ten years have been both challenging and rewarding—a testament to God’s grace. Academically, I earned my Master of Commerce (Finance), CPA certification, and ultimately, a PhD in Accounting and Finance from Strathmore University. My PhD stands as my greatest academic achievement, a transformative experience of self-discovery and academic humility.

Professionally, I have grown through various roles, from Graduate Assistant to Tutorial Fellow, Doctoral Fellow, and now Lecturer. Among my key accomplishments include, successfully coordinating the ACCA accreditation for the BCom in Accounting and Finance programme, leading a curriculum review for the BCom (Finance specialization) programme, spearheading stakeholder engagement to assess industry needs in the financial services sector, which led to the creation of the Bachelor of Financial Services (BFS) degree. Two years after its launch, I was honored to take on the role of Programme Lead for this Programme.

The influence of SBS extends beyond Kenya, reaching across Africa. I have had the privilege of teaching students from various countries in academic and graduate Programmes. Additionally, my involvement in executive education Programmes like the Leadership, Management, and Governance (LMG) Program under the Institute of Healthcare Management (IHM) has been transformative. This program, focused on empowering African health leaders, enabled me to train healthcare professionals from Kenya, Ghana, Mali, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, and beyond in financial management.

I was also part of the Sisters’ Blended Value Project, which equips Catholic Sisters with the tools to build sustainable social initiatives. Research-wise, I have collaborated with Professor Tankiso Moloi, Executive Dean of the College of Business and Economics at the University of Johannesburg. Our current research focuses on South Africa, East Africa, and West Africa, fostering knowledge that transcends borders.

True leadership is tested during moments of crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic was a defining period that disrupted how we live, work, and socialize. The lockdowns necessitated a shift from face-to-face sessions to online learning—a transition that SBS navigated with remarkable agility. The pandemic taught me the importance of adaptability and reminded me that effective leadership shines brightest in turbulent times.

One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that the only person standing between you and your goals is yourself. Small, consistent, positive actions lead to habits, habits build character, and character shapes destiny. Each of us has the same 24 hours in a day; how we choose to spend that time determines the course of our lives.

Looking back, my journey at SBS has been nothing short of transformative. It has shaped not just my career but also my perspective on the impact we can have on others. As I look ahead, I am committed to continuing this journey of growth, excellence, and making a difference across Africa and beyond.

Article by Dr. Erastus Mbithi, Faculty, Strathmore University Business School