Meet Mackenzie

The story of Mackenzie School is one that spans decades – mapping a boys journey into Manhood and his contribution to the education of young men in Kenya.

In this day and age where young people’s potential is disrupted by promises of overnight success, fame and get-rich-quick schemes; young men especially are in need of a trusted voice of reason that guides them into manhood, a pillar of Mackenzie School’s educational philosophy.

Meet John P. Makenzi, Founder and Chairman of Mackenzie School, career educator and Mentor-in-chief of the boys at Mackenzie School during and beyond their school days. His career in education that began at the Alliance High School set him on the path of mastering boy-focused school programmes and philosophies. Many men of worth in Kenya today in various sectors can give some credit to Mr Makenzi for his positive contribution to their journeys and destinations – he notes that many who have passed through his hands have taken the entrepreneurship path and some, leadership – 7 County Governors among them.

He himself has held leadership positions at Tala High School, Kapsabet Boys High School Nandi, Moi Forces Academy Nairobi, Kagumo Teachers College, Lenana School and Machakos School in the public sector and Aga Khan School before beginning Makenzi School in 2005.

As a young man in secondary school, Makenzi bought his first piece of land, an impressive choice for a teenager whose pocket money could have found many other uses. A few years later, at university his investment mindset saw him save up his “boom” to buy another piece of land where Mackenzie School sits today.

Humble beginnings and ambition fueled by diligence and commitment is the story of Mackenzie School that began with just two classrooms and a staffroom located under a tree. With many more buildings and facilities today, an education at Mackenzie School is one that spans beyond books and exams. The journey for each Mackenzie School student is about growth, struggles (let’s be honest this a challenging time for young men), self-discovery and optimizing potential.

“Some boys are easy to guide, others take time. All are worth it!” John P Makenzi. Whether loud or quiet, bold or thoughtful, each boy is given the space to grow, the structure to thrive, and the support to succeed (link to manifesto). This is Mr. Makenzi’s commitment to the boys and their parents. He in turn expects commitment from the boys, personally speaking to each of them as they enrol and following up on their progress as they pursue their goals.

He would like to see more boys’ schools placing emphasis on guidance and mentorship if our expectation of boys is for them to grow into men of substance.

Would you like to actually meet Mr. Makenzi? Learn more about the school and mentoring and young men.