Samuel Karanja Kariuki
CO-FOUNDER & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, PAYUF
Samuel Karanja Kariuki is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 23 years of experience in business management and enterprise development. His journey in entrepreneurship spans multiple industries, including screen printing, publicity, logistics, and flag manufacturing. His international exposure includes an attachment in the USA through the Africa American Business Council in Boston and a five-year work-study stint in Britain, where he gained valuable management experience with W.H. Smith and Pulsar Logistics. Samuel’s entrepreneurial ventures include Media Age Publicity, a screen printing business serving top-tier clients like Hilton Hotel and Kenya Power, and The Flag Shop, a pioneering enterprise providing national and customized flags for governments, embassies, and learning institutions. In 2011, he launched Flags for Schools, an initiative promoting patriotism by encouraging schools to display the Kenyan flag, inspired by his travels in the USA. This vision evolved into PAYUF (Pan African Youth Unity Foundation), which Samuel co-founded to instill national pride among young people through the symbolic power of flags and civic engagement. PAYUF’s mission is to foster a deep sense of patriotism among students and youth, ensuring that the African and national flag becomes a permanent fixture in schools and public spaces. The vision is to create a generation of responsible and patriotic citizens who uphold national values and unity. Through PAYUF, Samuel Karanja Kariuki continues his commitment to inspiring patriotism and national pride, leveraging his vast experience and entrepreneurial acumen to drive meaningful social change.
Kevin Kori Gathura
CO-FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, PAYUF
Kevin Kori Gathura is a passionate Pan-African youth advocate, leadership champion, and social impact strategist dedicated to fostering unity, civic engagement, and economic empowerment among African youth. With extensive experience in community development, policy advocacy, and student leadership, Kori has played a pivotal role in shaping initiatives that drive sustainable change across the continent. He has actively promoted national identity, Pan-African consciousness, and youth participation in governance. Having represented youth in key regional forums, he has advocated for inclusive policies, economic justice, and youth-led initiatives. Kori’s unwavering commitment to grassroots empowerment, leadership, mentorship, and social justice is reflected in his active engagement in peace advocacy, community outreach, and capacity-building programs. He believes in transforming Africa through youth-led solutions, championing education, and amplifying the voices of young people in decision-making spaces. “Empowering Africa’s youth is not just an opportunity—it’s a responsibility. We are the architects of Africa’s future.” – Kevin Kori Gathura
Lizarn Nyambura
HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGER, PAYUF
Lizarn Nyambura is a dynamic and results-driven Human Resource professional with over 10 years of experience in human resource, customer service, project management, quality assurance, sales and marketing, and data analysis. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences (Political Science) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Tax Administration Before joining PAYUF, Lizarn held diverse leadership roles across various industries, excelling in employee relations, talent acquisition, organizational development, and administrative management. Her ability to foster a positive work culture, streamline HR processes, and enhance employee engagement makes her an invaluable asset to PAYUF. As PAYUF’s Human Resource Manager, Lizarn oversees recruitment, performance management, workplace policies, and training programs, ensuring a well-structured and motivated workforce. Her expertise in team collaboration, compliance, and strategic HR planning plays a crucial role in driving employee productivity and organizational success. Lizarn is committed to creating a dynamic and inclusive work environment, empowering teams to thrive, and implementing best HR practices that align with PAYUF’s mission and vision.
Nicholas Mutua
FINANCE MANAGER, PAYUF
Nicholas Mutua is a highly skilled finance professional with a strong background in accounting, banking, and financial management. With a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting), he has gained extensive experience in financial operations, customer relationship management, and risk compliance. Nicholas has worked at Equity Bank Kenya, as a Payments Officer and Relationship Officer, playing a key role in business growth, financial analysis, and merchant operations. His expertise in accounting software, financial literacy training, and client management makes him a valuable asset to the PAYUF team. As PAYUF’s Finance Manager, Nicholas is responsible for overseeing financial planning, optimizing budgets, and ensuring financial sustainability. His strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and strategic mindset drive efficiency and growth within the organization. Beyond his professional career, Nicholas is passionate about mentoring young professionals, community service, and continuous learning in the fields of finance and business management.
