There are two types of people in this world: those who dream of success and those who go out and achieve it. Prof. Elizabeth Kalunda firmly belongs to the latter category. Once a high school teacher, Kalunda’s relentless pursuit of her dreams led her to become the Deputy Vice Chancellor of one of Kenya’s premier private universities and the Vice Chairperson of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK).
Early Career in Education
Prof. Kalunda’s story begins in Machakos, where she taught home science at a modest school. Her passion for teaching was evident, but she felt a persistent urge to achieve more. “I love teaching, but I felt there was more to life,” she shared in an interview with Citizen Digital’s She Means Business. “At first, I thought changing my environment would help, but I realized I also needed to do more with myself.”
Transition to Higher Education
Determined to expand her horizons, Kalunda pursued further studies beyond her Bachelor of Education in Home Science and Technology. She decided to branch out into accounting, driven by her long-standing love for mathematics and numbers. This shift marked the beginning of her journey toward greater professional heights.
Rising Through the Ranks
Prof. Kalunda’s decision to further her education paid off. Her academic pursuits, combined with her dedication and hard work, enabled her to climb the ranks in the academic world. Her impressive trajectory saw her transition from teaching in high school to holding a significant administrative role at a leading private university in Kenya.
Leadership in Accountancy
In addition to her role as Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kalunda’s expertise and commitment led to her appointment as the Vice Chairperson of ICPAK, the regulatory body for the accountancy profession in Kenya. This position underscores her influence and leadership within the field, highlighting her diverse talents and relentless drive for excellence.
An Inspiration to Many
Prof. Kalunda’s journey from a high school teacher to a prominent leader in academia and accountancy serves as an inspiration to many. Her story is a testament to the power of determination, continuous learning, and the courage to pursue one’s dreams. She exemplifies what it means to not only dream but to chase those dreams and turn them into reality.
In reflecting on her journey, Prof. Kalunda embodies the essence of ambition and resilience. Her success story encourages others to pursue their passions relentlessly and to never settle for less than what they aspire to achieve.
