Our Team

Operating Team: 

  • Steve Miles

    CEO

    Steve has over 25 years of experience in leadership and developing people in the charity, sport, business, and international development sector. When he’s not constantly changing time zones, while leading EL’s training programmes; he loves great coffee, cooking, and all things sport.  

  • Sian Cooper

    FINANCE OFFICER, UK

    Sian’s background is in English and education, in which she holds Qualified Teacher status and a BA (hons). As a member of the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) and Licensed Practicing Accountant, she is also a finalist student member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). Sian is an avid conservationist, who is often found discussing emerging and environmentally friendly technologies.

  • Terry Kiruki

    COUNTRY LEAD, KENYA

    With a background in Construction project management, Terry’s passion in equipping individuals towards realizing their optimal personal best led her to shifting her career and has been working in the leadership development space for the last 5 years!

  • Wangui Kimaru

    SENIOR PROGRAMS MANAGER, KENYA

    With a background in Economics and Statistics and an unwavering passion for empowering youth, Wangui has spent the past decade wholeheartedly dedicated to fostering positive change within diverse communities across Kenya. When not working, find her seeking out new nature trails or hosting a group of friends for a cup of tea, games, and great conversations.

  • Emily Hannah

    PROGRAM COORDINATOR, UK

    Emily has 20 years experience in leadership, groups work, training, and youth work, having worked in both the charity and public sector.  She is passionate about seeing individuals and communities owning their own story, and empowered to make changes in their lives.  Outside of work, you’ll find her walking, running or paddle-boarding through the Suffolk countryside, or eating something sugary in front of a crime drama.

  • Annah Navua

    HEAD OF TRAINING, KENYA

    Annah is passionate about training and development, motivated by a desire to uplift, develop and empower individuals. She leads training initiatives that inspire lasting impact, believing that everyone deserves opportunities to thrive. Committed to lifelong learning, she finds joy in reading and is an active member of a book club. When not shaping learning experiences, Annah enjoys exploring the outdoors and perfecting the art of brunch.

  • Cynthia Omondi

    FINANCE & ADMIN LEAD, KENYA

    I am the Finance and Administration Lead at Emerging Leaders, bringing over 15 years of experience in program finance and a strong track record of driving excellence in financial management and compliance. A certified CPA(K) with a Master’s degree in Development Finance and a certification in Organizational Analysis, I am a strategic finance professional with a deep understanding of both profit and not-for-profit sectors who is passionate about leadership development and empowering communities and I'm committed to building efficient financial systems that enable impactful, sustainable programming and long-term organizational growth. Outside of work, I enjoy gardening, antiquing, visiting art exhibitions, and I'm currently exploring my creativity through flower arrangement and drawing classes.

  • Tonny Njeru

    MONITORING & EVALUATION COORDINATOR, KENYA

    With a background in Economics and Statistics, Tonny loves turning data into real impact and meaningful change. He’s driven by excellence, constantly exploring new ideas and smarter ways to uplift communities.

  • Peter Waithaka

    LEAD TRAINER, KENYA

    Peter, as a beneficiary of the Emerging Leaders programme, brings into his training experience the authenticity not as a theorist, but as a practioner of the transforming power of unlocking your potential. An excellent communicator with over 6 years experience training in urban poor communities, prisons, NGOs and CBOs. One of our lead trainers responsible not only for delivering training, but training trainers both in Kenya and internationally. A talented acrobat, community influencer and avid reader, he established the first ever library for the community in Dandora as his legacy.

  • Millie Ferguson

    TRAINER, UK

    Millie has a background in community outreach and a deep passion for seeing communities strengthened and empowered. Whether she's working alongside local initiatives or supporting individuals, Millie is driven by a desire to see meaningful impact and lasting change. When she’s not at work, you’ll find Millie chasing adventure, discovering great places to eat, or singing at the top of her voice! 

  • John Kioko

    FINANCE & ADMIN ASSOCIATE, KENYA

    John is a dedicated finance apprentice with a strong commitment to excellence in finance. His passion for the finance sector, paired with an unwavering work ethic, positions him for a bright future of continued growth and leadership in the industry. Always striving to learn and apply innovative solutions, John is determined to make a lasting impact and contribute to the success of the finance field

  • Franklyne Maramba

    ADMIN & PROCUREMENT OFFICER, KENYA

    I'm a purpose-driven professional with over four years of hands-on experience in administration, operations, and procurement. I’m passionate about creating systems that actually work—streamlining processes, making the most of available resources, and finding practical solutions that drive results. I believe that keeping a long-term perspective helps guide smarter decisions in the everyday moments that count.
    Outside of work, I’m a devoted family man and a big advocate for youth empowerment. I love encouraging young people to recognize their potential and take charge of the change they want to see in their lives and communities.

Associate Trainers: 

  • Vijay Kiran

    ASSOCIATE TRAINER, INDIA

    Vijay is qualified as a Psychotherapist, Soft-skills Trainer, Counsellor and a Consultant with over 25 years of experience that includes corporate training & counselling of individuals, families, employees, students & communities. Loves to travel, read, watch movies & have deep discussions with friends.

  • Vuyani Hans

    ASSOCIATE TRAINER, SOUTH AFRICA

    Vuyani is a trainer based in Paarl, Western Cape, with extensive experience in youth development and training. He spent 12 years as a Programme Administrator and Facilitator at Wagon of Hope Foundation, leading peer education programs on leadership, self-development, and social issues in high schools. Since 2015, he has been a part-time trainer at Manyano Centre, working with youth from schools, ministries, and NGOs. In 2024, he was elected Chairperson of Mbekweni Spiritual Crime Prevention. Currently, Vuyani trains farm workers across South Africa with Emerging Leaders SA.

  • Lennox Plaatjies

    ASSOCIATE TRAINER, SOUTH AFRICA

    Lennox lives in the Western Cape of South Africa. and grew up under the Apartheid regime. For 18 years he worked within the South African prison system. Lennox is a passionate community activist and qualified trainer for Emerging Leaders, focusing on vulnerable youth. His motto: It is time for all South Africans, of all races and creeds, to start working together to write the real story of the potential of its people.

  • Rajab Juma

    ASSOCIATE TRAINER, KENYA

    Rajab is an alumnus of the Leadership for Life program, who is passionate about empowering youth in the community and enhancing a cheerful working environment, while also ensuring strong interpersonal skills with fellow employees. Outside of work, Rajab is a talented singer, dancer, MC, and DJ, who loves to travel and listen to music, which help in his creative journey.

  • Shelmith Wambui

    ASSOCIATE TRAINER, KENYA

    With four years of experience at Emerging Leaders Kenya, Shelmith has dedicated herself to unlocking human potential through mindset transformation, skills, and motivation. As a trainer, she has not only shared knowledge but has also experienced the profound impact of the Leadership for Life training program firsthand. Her passion lies in empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential by providing the tools and support needed to flourish.

  • Stephen Aduda

    ASSOCIATE TRAINER, KENYA

    Aduda is a seasoned trainer, event emcee, professional music artist, and community organizer with over a decade of experience. Passionate about sustainable growth and community development, he champions empowerment for children, youth, and women. When he's not leading change, he's jogging, at the gym, or supporting vulnerable children.

  • Faizer Achieng'

    ASSOCIATE TRAINER, KENYA

    Faizer has been empowering communities through LFL trainings for the past four years. Driven by a mission to create safe, crime-free spaces where everyone thrives, they blend quiet reflection with infectious energy—transforming into the loudest, funniest facilitator in the room once training begins! Passionate about unlocking potential and building connections, Faizer is dedicated to shaping tomorrow’s leaders through laughter, collaboration, and a deep belief in human potential.

  • Santana Sidaka

    ASSOCIATE TRAINER, KENYA

    Santana is a dedicated and compassionate professional with proven experience as a Trainer, specializing in equipping youths with disabilities with essential life skills. Passionate about community development and known for leading impactful initiatives focused on mindset transformation among vulnerable youth. Beyond training, she has a creative flair for crafting accessories—such as earrings, necklaces, and hand fans—using recycled materials, blending sustainability with artistry.

  • Campbell Ligami

    ASSOCIATE TRAINER, KENYA

    His journey began on the streets. After dropping out of school in Class 6, life became a series of struggles and moments filled with hopelessness. But everything changed in 2018 when Campbell encountered Emerging Leaders and went through their training. That experience ignited a transformation that reshaped his life. Today, he has the privilege of helping others go through that same life-changing journey. Every time he facilitates, he witnesses the power of growth, purpose, and possibility coming alive in others. This work isn't just what he does—it's who he is. Campbell stands as living proof that no matter where you start, your potential can be unlocked.

  • Josephine Ademba

    ASSOCIATE TRAINER, KENYA

    Josephine is a trainer, passionate about creating impact through people-focused work. With a degree in Social Work and Community Development, she’s trained and mentored young changemakers at Emerging Leaders since 2022. A laid-back traveler and dancer at heart, Josephine thrives on connecting with others and believes community, joy, and collaboration are key to driving real change.

  • James Andare

    ASSOCIATE TRAINER, KENYA

    Andare envisions a day when he can walk through his community unnoticed—not out of neglect, but because every individual is deeply and holistically engaged in meaningful work, leadership, and purpose-driven action, making his presence simply part of an empowered whole.

  • Eudies Wambui

    ASSOCIATE TRAINER, KENYA

    Eudies has been part of Emerging Leaders since 2022, facilitating sessions, supporting with administration, and helping turn ideas into action. Passionate about personal growth, she finds inspiration in podcasts and loves exploring new cities. Known for her reliability and big heart, Eudies is the go-to person—always ready to support and show up when it matters most.

Board of Directors:

  • Glen Robinson

    CHAIRMAN

    Glen Robinson brings to the team 21 years of international business experience in IT Solutions, System Integration and Services. Previously with Dimension Data Glen, now Senior Vice President, Global Sales & Marketing at Sigfox brings a wealth of experience in global business development in helping businesses & organisations grow to scale. Glen, a proud South African and rugby fan, serves on the leadership team in his community church and is a full-time family man and part-time mountain biking enthusiast.

  • Susanne Dodd

    DIRECTOR

    Susanne is a qualified solicitor with 20 years of post-qualification experience; she is also a Chartered Manager with the Chartered Institute of Management. She holds a Masters in Business Administration. With over 15 years of senior-level experience in large, complex organizations, Susanne is committed to driving sustainable and impactful change. She is an experienced Board member, serving on multiple regeneration and development entities.

  • Clare Tunbridge

    DIRECTOR

    Clare’s background is in engineering - she also holds an MBA from Bath University. She is a long-standing humanitarian, most recently based in Syria. Through all the high stress environments - wherever she is in the world - she always finds a (creative) way to enjoy baking.

  • Richard Hanrahan

    DIRECTOR

    Rich has over 30 years of experience leading and transforming organisations across public and private sectors. With an MBA in Leadership, Coaching and Mentoring, he brings deep expertise in the practical application of sustainable change. He’s often found cycling or motorcycling or building community connections in his adopted home of Denmark.

  • Ben Gardner

    DIRECTOR

    Ben has over 10 years experience leading commercial teams in the Software industry. Recently he worked at Rio, a Sustainability and ESG reporting organisation. Now he works as a Customer Director at Planhat, the next-Gen CRM supporting business to acquire, service and grow customers more successfully. Ben is a new #GirlDad, with two beautiful young girls. Ben spent his youth on the rugby field attending Bath University and playing under the Bath RFC Academy.

 

Global Advisory Group: 

  • Saba Almubaslat

    MIDDLE EAST

    Prior to becoming CEO of the Humanitarian Leadership Academy, Saba invested her career in humanitarian response in some of the most challenging countries, including Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, Palestine, Yemen, Iraq, Tunisia & Azerbaijan. . Before her current role Saba was leading the country office of Save The Children from Jordan, responsible for Syria crisis Relief.

  • Lennox Plaatjies

    SOUTH AFRICA

    Lennox lives in the Western Cape of South Africa. and grew up under the Apartheid regime. For 18 years he worked within the South African prison system. Lennox is a passionate community activist and qualified trainer for Emerging Leaders, focusing on vulnerable youth. His motto: It is time for all South Africans, of all races and creeds, to start working together to write the real story of the potential of its people.

  • Purity Njue

    KENYA

    Purity has spent her career in the agriculture supply chains in Kenya, with a focus on getting the best quality products while maximising productivity on the land, spotting the potential in people, and being efficient with resources. Purity has witnessed the impact of the EL programme in the lives of thousands of people in Kenya and is herself an experienced facilitator of the Leadership for Life programme.

  • Hazel Culley

    UNITED KINGDOM

    Hazel has worked with the global supply chains for nearly 20 years and is Senior Sustainability manager for Marks and Spencer. This means that she has extensive insight into the supply chains and the communities of people who make and grow the products we so rely on in the UK. Hazel is committed to equality and fairness and to her this means sustainable supply chains and flourishing communities.

  • Dickens Thunde

    GHANA

    Dickens has spent his life in international development with the Global organisation World Vision. He has had strategic and National Director roles in Malawi, Kenya and Ghana. He has been Director of East Africa’s regional management and strategy initiatives. His strengths are in participatory approaches to international development and strategic planning for non profit organisations.

  • Ranjeeb Sarma

    INDIA

    Ranjeeb is Head of Social Compliance, CSR, Plan A and Administration with Marks and Spencer India. He has a decade of experience and insight on issues related to supply chain sustainability & CSR (Wal-Mart, Gap Inc, Mothercare, Solidaridad). He actively partnered with Emerging Leaders to roll out the Leadership for life program (the first of its kind) in the Indian garment sector.

None of us is as smart as all of us.

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

-African Proverb