Kanali Samantha Luseno is a program associate in the foundation’s Nairobi office. She works on the Civic Engagement and Government team, supporting the development of strategy along with monitoring, evaluation, and learning.

Kanali brings experience in education, health, social protections, water and sanitation, and advocacy for women, children, and people with disabilities. Before joining Ford, she was an associate at IDinsight, an international data analytics and research organization that helps leaders improve their social impact. Prior to this, she worked at Kenya’s Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis, National Hospital Insurance Fund, Civil Society Platform on Oil and Gas, and the Jesuit Justice Ecology Network for Africa.

Kanali has authored multiple publications and policy briefs, including several reports on budgeting to support the needs of children, youth, and women across Kenya. She sits on the advisory board of Kenya Youth Policy Café, an initiative she cofounded that encourages young people to increase their understanding and participation in the country’s policymaking processes. She is passionate about mentorship and is an avid blogger, vlogger, and podcaster.

Kanali holds a master’s degree in economics and a bachelor’s degree in actuarial science and mathematics from the University of Manchester.