Meeting Leah Ngini

On Thursday afternoon I was granted an opportunity to interview Leah Ngini.  I had heard a lot about her and since they are naming the new AIU Community Center after her, I was looking forward to meeting her and hearing her story.

Leah grew up in Kenya but as a young child, she understood poverty.  Even though her father was a teacher and farmer,they struggled to make a living and have enough money for food.  Her mother was a great influence to Leah.  She encouraged all of her daughters to get an education before they marry so they could be independent and not have to rely on a husband for an income.  With her mother's encouragement she was able to get a college education eventually earning a Master's Degree and today owns the St. Christopher's School in Karen.  She has successfully parlayed her love for education, especially for women, into a modern school campus that is located near the Karen Town Center.

After teaching in a structured government education environment she decided to start her own school because it gave her the freedom and flexibility to pursue her own innovative teaching methods.  Even though she is an excellent educator, she is also an entrepreneur.  When asked what words of advice she would give to students whom aim to venture into business she says with enthusiasm, "Believe in yourself. Go for it and trust God.  By God's grace you can do all things though Him who strengthens me".  You can transpose her philosophy on education, "Be Happy" into all areas of life.  Even in the midst of dark circumstances, she commented that an "attitude of gratitude" makes any situation bearable.

Leah first got involved with NEGST/AIU in 1992 when as principal at the St. Francis Church she got to know the choir trainer that told her about NEGST.  Eventually Dr. David Casalli, Vice Chancellor of NEGST invited her to serve on the Governing Council.  What attracted her to serve was how this Christian organization (NEGST) attracted many refugees and provided an education even though many could not even pay their fees.  And at Christmas time, many of these students had nothing and Dr. Casalli would recruit Leah to help provide Christmas presents.  So she gave produce from her garden and helped purchase meat so they could provide the students a Christmas meal. 

When asked how she felt about the new community center, she seemed embarrassed, but commented, "I was truly humbled.  To be considered with the likes of Byong Kato, Tony Wellman, and others that have buildings named in their honor on the AIU campus, it is truly a great honor."  Even though she has become a successful businesswoman, she shows her true humility when she states, "We are all workers together in God's vineyard."  Her prayer is that many more will be called to serve at AIU as laborers for the Lord.

In conclusion, I asked Leah what advice can she give to people in the world today.  She remarked, "Love One Another.  Where there is love there is no discrimination and unity will abound."  She also referenced in the Bible where it states, "We will be known as Christians by our love for one another..."

Leah Ngini is truly a gracious woman.  As I rode back to the AIU campus, I thought to myself, "we need more women in leadership like Leah Ngini.  She truly is an inspiration to all, an advocate for women, always looking for ways to encourage the downtrodden and disadvantaged".  It is easy to see why God has blessed her in so many ways, because she has been a blessing to many.