The Big Interview with Stephen Ndungu
MKTDC founder Stephen Ndungu shares the story behind the organisation and his vision for Kenyan athletics.
Stephen Ndungu, the founder of Mt. Kenya Talents Development Centre, sits down to discuss how MKTDC began, the challenges of developing young talent in Kenya, and his hopes for the future of the programme.
How It All Began
Stephen Ndungu is a mentor at MKTDC and one of the finest pace makers in marathon running, known as the 'King Maker'. He started the club in July 1998 when young runners from poor backgrounds approached him for help. Most were orphans or from single-parent homes.
Starting with just a handful of athletes, the programme grew steadily. Stephen approached Samuel Wanjiru with his vision, and Wanjiru agreed to become the organisation's flag bearer and Goodwill Ambassador — a partnership that would help put MKTDC on the world stage.