Rose Gichuki

Rose Gichuki is an award-winning Kenyan banking executive, women's economic empowerment champion and transformational leader with over two decades of experience in financial services, strategic partnerships and inclusive banking. A pioneer in women's banking, Rose most recently spearheaded QUEEN Banking at Family Bank, previously served as Chief DADA at Stanbic Bank, and was part of the pioneering team that launched Fanikisha at Equity Bank. Her career reflects an enduring commitment to developing innovative financial propositions that empower women to earn, own, grow and build sustainable wealth. Under her leadership, QUEEN Banking gained recognition beyond Kenya, attracting benchmarking visits from Bank of Kigali (Rwanda) and Zanaco (Zambia National Commercial Bank). These engagements underscored the proposition's growing regional relevance and its contribution to advancing women's banking across Africa. A respected voice in the development finance ecosystem, Rose has actively engaged with leading institutions and networks including AGF, Aceli Africa, GIZ, EIB, BII, AfDB, Women's World Banking, Financial Alliance for Women, We-Fi and IFC. Through these engagements, she has helped cultivate strategic relationships connecting financial institutions, development partners and women entrepreneurs, expanding opportunities for access to finance, capacity building, business networks and economic empowerment. Her outstanding contributions have earned prestigious international recognition, including: - Standard Bank Group Global Winner – Top Women Employee Award (2022/23), South Africa. - International Every Girl Wins Award – USA. - USAID Best & Brightest Scholarship – Chase Manhattan Bank, New York, where she was among 30 bankers selected from across Africa. Beyond banking, Rose is an engaging keynote speaker, accomplished panellist, mentor and passionate advocate for women's leadership and economic independence. Her experience spans executive leadership, strategic advisory, institutional partnerships, governance and community service. What truly distinguishes Rose is her authenticity, empathy and remarkable ability to connect with women through real-life experiences. She believes women's banking is not simply about financial products — it is about understanding women's realities, building meaningful relationships and creating pathways to financial independence, leadership and lasting wealth. Rose brings to every platform a compelling blend of executive experience, practical wisdom, warmth and an unwavering belief in women's potential. Her guiding philosophy: "Don't just earn a living. Build a life of choices, freedom and legacy."