Rachel rose to the position of managing director at the age of 33, thanks to her unwavering commitment to social justice, sustainability, and empowerment.
As the head of Solidaridad, she oversees development projects and programmes across six countries. The organisation with its secretariat in the Netherlands, focuses on improving livelihoods, increasing income, and promoting sustainability practices among smallholder farmers.
She intended to pursue a career in law after her undergraduate law studies at the University of Kent in England. She had also studied to be a solicitor at Nottingham Trent University.
However, her professional path took a different turn when she realised her passion for development work and climate action.
"I believe that collective action, innovative policies, and strategic implementation are key to achieving meaningful impact."
Rachel transitioned into consultancy at Camco Clean Energy, focusing on advisory roles around climate change and renewable energy.
Eager to deepen her expertise, she pursued a Master of Sciences in Public Policy and Human Development in the Netherlands. Upon returning to Kenya, Rachel joined KPMG as a fund manager, handling UK-funded projects and serving in the International Development Advisory Services unit.
This role provided her with invaluable insights into fund management and project implementation.
“My journey with Solidaridad began six years ago,” says Rachel.
Rachel works with coffee, tea, dairy, and cotton farmers, connecting them to European markets, ensuring fair prices, and integrating them into the carbon market. She also helps them with agroforestry projects to combat deforestation and improve soil health; and climate finance initiatives, where she secures funding for climate finance projects, thus helping smallholder farmers adapt to climate change.
Beyond her professional work, Rachel supports women’s rights organisations and mentors young professionals. As a board member of CREAW Kenya, she contributes to governance practices and fundraising efforts, enhancing the organisation’s impact.
She values family time, regularly spending Sundays with her parents, sisters, and husband.
“I believe that collective action, innovative policies, and strategic implementation are key to achieving meaningful impact,” she says.
– By Thorn Mulli
