With a Diploma in Business and ICT, a Bachelor's Degree in Communication and Journalism from Moi University, and an MPA in Innovation, Public Policy, and Public Value from University College London (UCL), my academic journey has laid a strong foundation for my professional endeavors. Before joining the Greater London Authority (GLA) as a Development Officer, I honed my skills at Southwark Council in a Regeneration (Program) and Planning Policy role and previously as a Policy Researcher at New Energy Nexus.
These roles were the culmination of a career transition I had been working towards for years. Moving to London for my postgraduate studies was driven by a desire to pivot from a fulfilling career in advocacy, campaigns, and communications to one focused on development management, public policy and urban regeneration. During my earlier career, I had the privilege of working with esteemed organisations such as Oxfam, the European Union, and the Clinton Health Access Initiative and other volunteer roles with various organisations including the Mozilla Foundation.
These roles allowed me to create and reshape impact narratives, with notable achievements including developing Kenya’s National COVID-19 Digital Awareness and Engagement Strategy and contributing to the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO) program.
Additionally, I have been honored with the AIAC Shuttleworth Foundation Fellowship and the Bittner Fellowship, recognizing my contributions and potential in the field. My journey reflects a blend of academic excellence and practical experience, underpinned by a commitment to making meaningful contributions to public policy and community development.
It's going to be an interesting next few months as my role at the GLA soon comes to an end as I explore new opportunities within the built environment. To more adventures!
Hobbies and Interests
I’m an avid reader who’s on a mission to reclaim my reading habits after the pandemic disrupted them. I’ve set a goal of two books a month, and I’m thrilled to be back on track. This year has been incredibly stimulating and has fueled a lot of intellectual growth. Beyond books, I’m passionate about the arts. Every couple of weeks, I make it a point to visit a gallery, attend a concert or orchestra performance, or catch a comedy show.
These experiences are not only a great way to unwind but also offer endless opportunities for personal growth and inspiration. Balancing intellectual pursuits with cultural immersion keeps life exciting and enriching!
I additionally love people! I love meeting new friends in person and online and I'll make every excuse to be in new social spaces because every new person I meet is as interesting as a new book :)
A fun fact about myself is I'm a passionate sports fan. Football, rugby and F1 have had me travel across the country and across the continent in search of the thrill and the excitement. It keeps me alive!
Looking back, what are some of the things you wish you knew that could have prepared you better in your move from your home country (Kenya) to your current country of residence (UK)
I wish I would have known just how lonely it would be. It was something that I was vaguely aware of but didn't quite grasp until I got here. My first few months were miserable because I didn't know anyone and had no social connections.
Grasping the different social context I was in was difficult and my interpretation of this city was that many people in this city, and perhaps many other big cities, were polite and perhaps nice, but not kind. I missed the social ties that I took for granted back home. I didn't know how intentional I would have to be about friendships in both creating and maintaining them.
