From Rotaract to Rotary: A Journey of Service

RTN. Joseph Nyagari

Joseph Nyagari is a trade development and industry research professional with over 15 years of experience driving growth and innovation in East Africa's textile and apparel industry. He currently serves as Deputy Director, Textile & Apparel Programme at Gatsby Africa, leading initiatives in sustainability, industry competitiveness, and investment. He has worked with regional and international organizations, including the African Cotton & Textile Industries Federation, USAID, and the International Trade Centre, supporting policy, value chain development, and industry transformation across Africa. He holds an MBA from Columbia Southern University, a Certificate in Sustainable Business Strategy from Harvard Business School, and a BSc in Computer Science from the University of Nairobi. Joseph began his Rotary journey through Rotaract in 2001, serving in numerous leadership roles, including President of the Rotaract Club of the University of Nairobi (2003–04) and Rotaract Club of Muthaiga (2008–09). Since joining the Rotary Club of Hurlingham in 2010, he has served as Club President, Secretary, Treasurer, Membership Chair, Family of Rotary Chair, District Youth Protection Officer, District New Generations Youth Services Chair, and in several district leadership roles. A Paul Harris Fellow (PHF+2) and recipient of the Rotary International Blue Pin, Joseph currently serves as Rotary Foundation Director and Project Lead for the Gilgil Ward Health Facilities Upgrade Project for the 2026–27 Rotary year.