When people think of actuaries, they often picture us crunching numbers in insurance companies or financial firms. However, the actuarial skill set can be applied to much broader challenges. Recently, I had the opportunity to use my actuarial expertise to assist stateless individuals in their quest for citizenship, particularly among the Kenyan-Asian community. What began as a technical assignment became a deeply human experience, reminding me of how our profession can create lasting, positive change.

Turning Data into Action

At the heart of my work was data. I collected, analysed, and interpreted information to understand the complexities of statelessness, building the first verifiable database of stateless individuals in this community. Statelessness refers to individuals who are not recognized as citizens by any country, which leaves them without accompanying rights and protections. It was about more than just numbers; it was about identifying the risks and vulnerabilities faced by this marginalized group. Using data-driven insights, I engaged in policy discussions and actively contributed to advocacy efforts, particularly with the Kenya National Taskforce on Statelessness and the UNHCR's global #IBelong campaign.

Assessing and Managing Risk

As actuaries, we're well-versed in risk assessment and management. I applied these principles to analyse the risks associated with statelessness for the community, many of whom had been in Kenya since the 1800s but remained unrecognized as citizens. The impact of statelessness was profound, including restricted access to essential services such as employment, education, healthcare, and social support. I proposed policy changes to mitigate these risks and successfully supported the Kenya National Taskforce on Statelessness in their goal of granting citizenship to stateless persons.

Shaping Policies for a Better Future 

My involvement extended to suggesting policy and procedural changes to address the legal gaps that left individuals stateless. This work mirrored our actuarial practice of advising on policies, but in a context far removed from traditional finance and insurance. By collaborating alongside Kenyan authorities, including the Directorate of Immigration and international bodies, the changes we proposed ensured that these stateless individuals could be recognized as citizens, restoring to them the rights they had been denied for decades.

Advocating for Social Change

Through my technical expertise and feedback on laws and procedures, I became an advocate for social change. This experience highlighted the broader application of actuarial expertise in addressing complex social issues. It demonstrated how our professional capabilities can extend beyond business, empowering marginalized communities to overcome systemic challenges. Our work (with Malkit Singh Main, EBS – Expert in Relationship & Leadership Dynamics) played a vital role in supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 16), which promotes inclusive societies and legal identity for all.

Community-Based Research 

My work also involved conducting community-based research on the risks of statelessness. Understanding the unique challenges faced by those without citizenship was essential in tailoring solutions that met their specific needs. By interviewing affected individuals and families, we gained insights that informed our approach to advocating for their rights. This research was pivotal in shaping my recommendations and advancing legal recognition for stateless persons.

Supporting Social Justice Initiatives

I had the privilege of providing technical advice and policy recommendations to social enterprises and national organizations, focused on improving legal frameworks for stateless individuals. It was inspiring to collaborate with organizations dedicated to social justice and contribute to their efforts in creating a fairer society. 

Empowering Non-Profits

My involvement with advocacy organizations was equally rewarding. By sharing my actuarial insights, I was able to enhance their effectiveness in addressing critical issues. Working with non-profits allowed me to bridge the gap between data analysis and social justice, reminding me that actuarial expertise can be a valuable asset to organizations striving to make a positive impact.

Aligning with ESG and DEI Principles

This initiative resonated deeply with the "Social" dimension of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance). It centred on supporting diversity by recognizing and addressing the needs of marginalized populations, enhancing equity by advocating for fairer policies and ensuring equal rights for all individuals, and fostering inclusion by helping stateless individuals gain citizenship and fully participate in society. Furthermore, this aligns with the principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), ensuring that those who were once invisible are now fully recognized as equals under the law.

Impact Beyond Numbers

My journey in helping stateless individuals gain citizenship was a transformative experience. The Kenyan-Asian Statelessness Eradication Initiative, which ran from 2017 to 2021, showed me the power of actuarial skills to transcend traditional boundaries and contribute to social good. It was a reminder that our profession can serve as a catalyst for positive societal change.  As actuaries, we have a unique opportunity to use our expertise to build a more just and equitable society. I am grateful for the chance to have played a pivotal role in this important work, and I look forward to continuing to leverage my skills to make a difference.

Celebrating Impact: From Public Service to Business Leadership and Actuarial Excellence  

The recognition I’ve received over the years from various sections of society underscores the wide-reaching impact of my work. From the Head of State’s Commendation by the Republic of Kenya for my contributions to public service and social justice, to being named among Kenya’s Top 40 Under 40 by a leading business news media house for leadership in the business sector, these honours reflect the intersection of my actuarial expertise with societal needs. Most recently, the Geoffrey Heywood Award from the International Association of Consulting Actuaries celebrates the profession’s potential to drive meaningful social change. These awards are a testament to how actuarial skills can transcend traditional boundaries and positively influence national development, business, and the global actuarial community.