I believe in seamless collaboration and using cutting-edge technology to create meaningful, impactful results. By aligning strategy with creativity, I help build brands and experiences that resonate deeply with audiences and stand the test of time.
Cecilia Siamanta Ntuala
CEO
My name is Cecilia Siamanta Ntuala, and I was born and raised in the Maasai Mara. I come from a family of nine children, with six brothers and two sisters. I grew up in a beautiful village, living a traditional village life. At a tender age, I sadly lost my mother. Despite this great loss, I continued with my education for some time until I was forced to drop out of school and remained in the village for about seven years.
Just six days after completing college, I secured employment with a company where I worked for 22 years—a company that not only employed me but also raised me professionally and shaped my career. I began my journey in the Laundry Department, moved on to Housekeeping, and was later sent to Italy to study Health and Beauty Therapy. After returning, we opened a spa, where I worked for many years in both Spa and Housekeeping.
In 2013, I moved into Management and was appointed Assistant Manager at one of the company’s prestigious camps. I later rose to the position of General Manager, a role I held from 2016 until 2024. During this period, I gained extensive experience across many areas of the tourism industry—learning everything from guest relations and operations to hands-on work such as environmental care and team leadership. For all this, I sincerely thank my boss and mentor for believing in me and guiding my growth.
Deep in my heart, however, I always carried a bigger dream—a dream of empowering women and giving back to the community that raised me. Because I was once helped by a kind woman from the UK who sacrificed so much to educate me, I have always felt a strong calling to extend the same hand to others. Since 2012, I have nurtured the vision of creating something that would uplift the girl child, the boy child, and women at large.
That dream became the foundation of Oloning’o Mara Camp. For many years, the plans lived only on my desktop as an idea and a vision. However, early this year, the dream finally materialized with the support of God, my family, and well-wishers. I especially wish to thank my brother Eddie for his incredible support—may God bless him—and my entire family for standing by me every step of the way.
Oloning’o Mara Camp is built on the vision of being a women-led camp, with women in key leadership positions. Growing up, we all knew tourism to be a powerful industry, yet one largely dominated by men. Today, as a Maasai woman, a leader, and a mother of five (three girls and two boys), I am proud to break that barrier. My children, my husband, and my entire support system continue to encourage me with the words, “Mom, you can do it—you have done it before.” This strength pushes me forward every day.
Thank you very much for taking the time to read my journey. I look forward to any opportunity to continue serving, inspiring, and making a difference.
My dream is simple but powerful: no matter where one is born or where one comes from, it is possible to become whatever one chooses to be. I believe in creating opportunities, uplifting others, and leading by example.
THE OLONING'O DISTINCTION
Bespoke & Exclusive Safari Experience
Oloning’o Mara Camp is a groundbreaking, women-led safari camp in Kenya. Its name, meaning “one who is heard and noticed,” reflects its mission to elevate local voices, champion conservation, and provide meaningful travel experiences.
It embodies our purpose: to deliver world-class safari experiences while empowering women, preserving the Masai Mara’s ecosystem, and celebrating its cultural heritage. Born from the vision of a Maasai woman who grew up in the shadow of the Mara’s acacia trees, Oloning’o challenges the male-dominated safari industry. Our founders-conservationists, mothers, and community leaders-combine generational knowledge with formal training to lead as guides, rangers, and hospitality experts. Over 85% of our team are women, many of whom are the first in their families to hold such roles, thanks to our ongoing mentorship and skills programs.
Our Purpose
Provide training and leadership opportunities for Maasai women, creating economic independence and inspiring future generations.
Operate a low-impact camp that prioritizes conservation, from solar power to water-saving practices.
Offer authentic cultural experiences that reflect the living Maasai heritage, not a staged performance.
Reinvest profits into girls’ education, clean water projects, and land lease agreements with female landowners.
- Empower Women
Provide training and leadership opportunities for Maasai women, creating economic independence and inspiring future generations.
- Protect the Mara
Operate a low-impact camp that prioritizes conservation, from solar power to water-saving practices.
- Honor Culture
Offer authentic cultural experiences that reflect the living Maasai heritage, not a staged performance.
- Support Communities
Reinvest profits into girls’ education, clean water projects, and land lease agreements with female landowners.
PRIVATE. PIONEERING. PROFOUNDLY TRANSFORMATIVE.
From the handwoven textiles in our tents to the stories shared around the campfire, every detail reflects our commitment to sustainability and empowerment. Our guides, trained in wildlife tracking and storytelling, bring the Mara to life with unmatched passion. Our chefs craft gourmet dishes using local ingredients, and our rangers lead conservation efforts that protect the Big Five and beyond. At Oloning’o, you’re not just a guest – you’re part of a movement to preserve the Mara and uplift its people.
Join us to experience a safari that’s as meaningful as it is luxurious. Learn more about our conservation efforts at Oloning’o Mara.
