Meet Ciiku Ndungu-Case

Entrepreneur, Cultural Ambassador

Biomedical Professional

Ciiku's story begins in the vibrant landscapes of Kenya, where her journey of discovery, passion for science, and dedication to others took root.

Her progression from a curious mind in East Africa to a leading figure in the biotechnology industry and philanthropy is a journey marked by perseverance, innovation, and a deep commitment to societal improvement.

Ciiku’s Story

Ciiku’s early life in Kenya laid the groundwork for her diverse skills and global outlook. Deeply immersed in her Gikũyũ heritage, she grew up as Wanjikũ, learning the importance of community and nature from her grandmother.

Her upbringing was rich with the tasks of tending livestock and the simplicity of playing amidst nature’s bounty, which instilled a profound respect for life and the rhythm of the natural world.

Moving to the busy streets of Nairobi for her education, she adopted the name Catherine in school and began absorbing the diverse cultural tapestry of Kenya’s capital.

This duality of experience—the contrast of rural tranquility to urban dynamism—sharpened her adaptability and broadened her perspective from a young age.

At boarding school, known once again as Wanjikũ among her Gikũyũ peers, Ciiku emerged as a leader.

It was here that she honed her leadership skills, surrounded by a circle of friends from varied cultural backgrounds who celebrated the richness of their collective heritages. These traditions of sharing and learning from one another were pivotal in shaping her into the advocate for diversity and inclusion she is today.

Ciiku’s journey brought her from the Kenyan countryside to the United States, where she pursued advanced education in cell and molecular biology. Her early experiences, blending traditional values with modern education, propelled her into a career where she could leverage her scientific expertise to address global health challenges while advocating for diversity and cultural understanding.

Ciiku’s Professional Bio

Ciiku Ndungu-Case is an accomplished R&D professional in the biotechnology industry, with a focus on drug development strategy, portfolio & program management.

Her education, culminating in a Master of Science in Cell & Molecular Biology from California State University – East Bay, provided her with a robust foundation in the scientific principles that underpin her work. Further professional development, including achieving the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, has equipped her with the skills necessary for effective project and program management within the complex landscape of biotechnology and pharmaceutical research.

Ciiku’s career is characterized by a dedication to advancing research in Neurosciences and Oncology, informed by a comprehensive understanding of clinical development strategy, brand strategy, and integrated evidence. Ciiku’s expertise also includes areas vital to the operational and strategic success of organizations, including collaborative leadership, public speaking, and strategic development, alongside a keen focus on financial oversight, diversity, and inclusion.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Ciiku’s commitment to societal improvement is evident in her philanthropic efforts. As the founder of Cheza Nami Foundation Inc., she seeks to foster cultural understanding and appreciation, underscoring her belief in the importance of community engagement and education as vehicles for change.

Our Mission Statement - We aim to harness the power of the arts as a universal language that unites diverse communities, fostering unity, purpose, and cultural pride.

We believe in the power of deep cultural awareness and mutual respect to ignite societal change; our goal is to create spaces where every voice echoes and every culture shines.

These simple stepping stones can spark collective action and demonstrate that our common ground isn’t just a platform for cooperation, but a powerful catalyst for transformation.