Mary Okelo is a trailblazer in African banking, education, and women’s empowerment. As the first woman bank manager in Kenya and the founder of Makini Schools, she has led a career defined by visionary leadership, institution-building, and a commitment to public service. Mary brings to the MAI Foundation Board decades of experience in finance, education, and international development, along with a lifelong dedication to equity, mentorship, and sustainable progress in Africa.

Mary founded the Kenya Women Finance Trust in 1982, the first women’s financial institution in the region, which has helped thousands of women entrepreneurs access credit and training. She also served as Senior Advisor to the President of the African Development Bank and was a board member of the Women’s World Banking Network. In education, she built Makini Schools into one of Kenya’s premier private school networks — demonstrating the power of values-driven, African-led institutions.

A highly respected thought leader, Mary continues to mentor women leaders and advocate for inclusive development across Africa through the Mary Okelo Foundation. She is a recipient of numerous honors, including the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (Kenya’s highest civilian award), and was named one of Africa’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government.

MAI Foundation draws on Mary’s deep insights and strategic counsel to guide the organization’s work at the intersection of workforce development and education, leadership, and gender equity. Her presence on the board strengthens MAI Foundation’s ability to deliver impact through culturally grounded, community-informed partnerships.