Dr. Esther Nkatha M’ithiria is a finance expert and seasoned lecturer with over 18 years of experience in teaching, research, and consultancy across the fields of finance, investments, and corporate governance. Having worked in both Kenya and Italy, she brings a rich global perspbbective and a deep commitment to advancing financial sustainability and ethical leadership in Africa. Currently a Senior Lecturer at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA), Dr. Esther combines academic rigor with practical application, helping organisations strengthen their governance structures and financial resilience. Her research focuses on the financing of social enterprises, reflecting her passion for empowering purpose-driven ventures to achieve long-term impact.

She brings over a decade of boardroom experience, having served on the boards of CUEA SACCO, Comboni Alliance for Social Entrepreneurship, AVSI Foundation, Kenya Electricity Transmission Company, and the Meru County Investment & Development Corporation, among others.

Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Esther is known for her curiosity, love of adventure, and deep appreciation of nature. Fluent in English, Kiswahili, and Italian, she embodies cross-cultural collaboration and lifelong learning. Championing financial sustainability and social innovation, Dr. Esther joins the SEK Board to advance the organisation’s mission to nurture a thriving social enterprise ecosystem one that empowers entrepreneurs, fosters innovation, and ensures that purpose and profit can grow side by side.