Knowledge, Rhoda King’ori believes, is only useful if shared, and she has devoted her life to creating a platform that makes this possible.
Entrepreneurship wasn’t her plan. She stumbled into it. While better-paying opportunities have come her way, she has stayed loyal to her trade, not for the money, but for the fulfilment its impact brings.
Rhoda is the co-founder and chief operations officer of Zydii, a business-to-business digital skilling start-up that helps companies train employees through tailored online courses, some via WhatsApp.
She’s been at it for eight years, navigating, but her faith in God, her love for people, and her belief in the power of knowledge keep her going.
"One thing my parents taught me is that if you’re going to do something, you do it 110 percent, no shortcuts."
One story in particular fuels her passion. A client, sceptical of Zydii’s impact, tested the platform by enrolling two of its lowest-ranking staff – casual cleaners. Within two months, both had upskilled enough to be promoted to permanent sales roles, transforming their lives and boosting the company’s productivity.
“That’s the radical power of knowledge,” Rhoda says. “It has a multiplier effect. It can improve lives and businesses.” She believes expertise should never be locked in small circles when it could benefit millions.
Rhoda holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Affairs and an MBA from USIU, but she says her greatest lessons have come from colleagues, mentors, and, especially, her parents. “One thing my parents taught me is that if you’re going to do something, you do it 110 percent, no shortcuts,” she says.
“Let no founder or entrepreneur tell you that they’ve never wanted to give up. But it’s just a matter of having grit.” Outside work, Rhoda sings, mostly in church.
-Vincent Owino