Dr Paul Kariuki

Dr Paul Kariuki is the executive director of the Democracy Development Program which is based in Durban. Their work spans across South Africa and extends into the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, reaching about 16 countries through a variety of programs.

Paul’s story began in 2001 when he relocated from Kenya, his home country, to South Africa to pursue postgraduate studies. Since then, he has had the privilege of working in academia, with stints at the universities of Natal, Pretoria and Stellenbosch, before returning to Durban. In 2013, he joined the Democracy Development Program as a program manager, progressing to become the executive director, the second in the organisation’s 30-year history to hold this role. Paul explained, “Our focus is on fostering democracy, governance, and active citizenship. We aim to empower citizens to hold leaders accountable, engage meaningfully in political discourse, and articulate their aspirations with confidence to help co-create a hopeful country.”

Paul’s first job was as a youth assistant with the South African Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) in Durban. At the time, he was an undergraduate student and felt a desire to volunteer at a youth-led organisation. He recalls walking through the city one afternoon during a university break and seeing a flyer for the YMCA. He explained, “Something told me to walk in. I spoke to the CEO and offered to volunteer my skills, primarily research and writing at the time. To my surprise, he asked me to start the following Monday. I began as a receptionist, despite my ambitions. But I gladly accepted the role because I wanted to immerse myself in society and explore the challenges inner city youth faced. Working there gave me the opportunity to explore how theoretical knowledge from my university lectures, particularly in development studies and economic policy, translated to real-world solutions.” Paul served the YMCA for seven years, steadily growing in roles while completing postgraduate studies.

Reflecting on his career Paul said that a philosophy that stuck with him early on was, ‘Don’t do anything about us, without us’. This philosophy taught him that true change comes when communities are part of their own transformation. He added, “The reason I do what I do is simple, I care deeply about our nation, our society, and its future. Our democracy must be defended. Upholding constitutionalism and promoting active citizenship should be a way of life.”

“For me, democracy is not just about governance; it’s a lived experience. It’s the daily actions we take together to overcome challenges and create a better future. Our democracy was hard-won, and it’s our collective duty to ensure it thrives for generations to come. There is hope in every citizen and there is power in every citizen to change lives, and that’s what makes wakes me up every day with hope,” emphasises Paul.

COLLECTIVE EFFORT
Commenting on his accomplishments Paul says, “I’m most proud of seeing the influence of our organisation. Mobilising citizens across different races, socio-economic backgrounds, and regions to engage in political discourse and hold leaders accountable has been incredibly fulfilling. When citizens confidently voice their concerns, with a heart full of service, and remain committed to doing the right thing despite challenges, I see hope for our nation. For me, that’s the essence of co-creating a society full of possibility. It’s a collective effort where every sector and individual plays a role.”

His role is not without significant challenges especially when having to translate complex ideas like democracy into actionable concepts that resonate with citizens. “For many, democracy feels intangible, I often hear questions like, ‘Can I eat democracy? Will it send my children to school?” he explains.

Paul expanded that his response is usually that democracy is a lived experience, it’s what we do daily together. He added, “Our program’s work involves keeping these conversations alive, encouraging accountability, and helping citizens understand the power they have to take action to transform their own environments. This is an ongoing challenge because our society is dynamic.” Significantly, transformation happens when talks lead to actions that are guided by mutual accountability, ensuring progress and enabling change in communities and in the nation.

CARE AND CONNECTION
Speaking of the best advice he has ever received, Paul says that this came from a mentor who told him, ‘You don’t need a title to lead. Serve people, care for them, and they will willingly choose you to lead them’. This advice has stayed with Paul and shaped how he approaches his role not just as a leader, but as someone committed to making a difference in people’s lives.”

Keeping his team motivated requires care and connection. Paul strives to understand his team’s personal and professional worlds while coaching and mentoring them to be mindful of why they have dedicated themselves to this work. “I show them the tangible impact of their efforts, whether it’s empowering communities or influencing policy. Our organisational values of empathy, honesty, accountability, and passion for transformative change guide us. By focusing on the big picture of co-creating a South Africa full of hope, I help my team stay energised and committed.”

He added, “My greatest inspiration comes from the leaders I’ve worked with throughout my journey. One of my mentors said, ‘As you rise, lift others.’ This wisdom keeps me grounded and focused on the larger picture. It’s not about me; it’s about the communities we serve and the legacy we leave for the next generation.”

Paul’s vision is for a thriving KwaZulu-Natal, a province where citizens actively engage in shaping their future and where opportunities are created for everyone. He says, “Over the next five years, I see transformative partnerships across sectors driving meaningful change. By fostering dialogue, encouraging account- ability, and co-creating solutions, I envision a province that’s prosperous, hopeful, and a model of what South Africa can achieve.”

In conclusion Paul says, “My motto is ‘Leadership is about serving others, not oneself’. That principle guides everything I do.”