From debt collector to industry leader: A woman’s journey in the auctioneering world

Rita Wanjiku Njuguna, the founder and director of Mistan Auctioneers./HANDOUT

In an industry often associated with confrontation, resilience, and a traditionally male-dominated culture, a quiet but powerful transformation is taking shape.

Rita Wanjiku Njuguna, the founder and director of Mistan Auctioneers, is at the centre of this shift. Her career in auctioneering is redefining the profession's image and challenging long-held stereotypes that have discouraged women from entering the industry.

She discusses her journey with The Star Newspaper Writer – Rading Biko, providing more insight into her motivations, struggles, and vision for a more ethical, professional, and inclusive auctioneering sector in Kenya.

Auctioneering has long been perceived as a male-dominated field. What inspired you, as a woman, to step into this space?

I was driven by the realisation that auctioneering presented a unique business opportunity in a space that was not overly saturated. At the time, many people associated the profession with aggression, informality, and in some cases, questionable conduct. I felt there was a gap for professionalism and ethical practice.I am a trained legal secretary.

I had earlier exposure to legal processes and the enforcement side of justice through my work with advocates. This experience planted the seed for my transition. I wanted to be part of a new generation of auctioneer professionals who operate with integrity, respect the law, and uphold human dignity. My goal was to challenge the perception that auctioneering is reserved for rogue actors and instead demonstrate that it can be a respected, structured profession.

Can you take us back to the moment you decided to venture into auctioneering and what influenced that decision?

In 2000 I started a company, Mistan Insurance Investigators, where I was involved in debt collection and investigative work. That role gave me a front-row seat to how financial disputes are handled and resolved.

Over time, I noticed the close working relationship between financial institutions, advocates and auctioneers .That is when I realised that auctioneers play a critical role in the justice system, particularly in enforcing court orders and ensuring compliance.

It became clear to me that this was a space where I could make a tangible impact. By 2010, I made the decisive move into auctioneering. It felt like a natural progression. I had already built the foundational knowledge and networks, so transitioning fully into the field allowed me to operate more effectively and independently.

What does it mean to you, on a personal level, to lead a woman-driven firm in such a demanding industry?

Leading a firm in this industry requires a combination of mental toughness, clarity of purpose, and the ability to make swift, informed decisions. Auctioneering is not for the faint-hearted; it demands resilience and discipline.

For me, leadership also means setting standards. As a woman leading a firm, I feel a responsibility to demonstrate that strength and professionalism can coexist with empathy and respect. It involves making difficult and sometimes unpopular decisions, but always within the boundaries of the law and ethical conduct.

What are some of the most difficult challenges you’ve faced, and how have they shaped you?

We always face persistent gender bias as one of the most significant hurdles. There have been moments when people questioned my authority or capability simply because I am a woman. In some cases, clients or stakeholders would initially prefer to deal with male counterparts.

Being underestimated is something I encountered quite frequently, especially in the early stages of my career. However, I chose not to internalise those perceptions. Instead, I focused on delivering results and maintaining professionalism.

What role has financial independence played in your journey?

Financial independence has been a major driving force. It not only provides personal stability but also empowers you to make decisions with confidence and integrity.

For me, independence is closely tied to accountability. When you are financially independent, you are less likely to compromise your values. It allows you to build a brand that is rooted in trust, which is essential in this line of work.

How is Mistan Auctioneers redefining the image of auctioneers in Kenya?

At Mistan Auctioneers, our focus is on professionalism, transparency, and collaboration. We are working to change the narrative that auctioneers are adversarial or punitive. Instead, we position ourselves as facilitators of resolution. There is increasing recognition of the role women play in auctioneering. As more women step into leadership positions, the culture is gradually shifting towards one that values diversity and professionalism.

What message would you like to send to young women considering unconventional careers?

Do not allow fear or societal expectations to limit your ambitions. If you are passionate about something, pursue it wholeheartedly. There is nothing inherently difficult about any profession. What matters is your commitment, discipline, and willingness to learn. Women bring a unique perspective, a feminine touch that often enhances problem-solving and leadership.