John Karanja

About John

John Karanja

Head of School, The Nairobi Academy

John Karanja is an accomplished educational leader, educator and advocate for inclusive, transformative learning. He currently serves as Head of School at The Nairobi Academy, bringing extensive experience in educational leadership, curriculum development and institutional growth.

Current role
Head of SchoolThe Nairobi Academy
Previously
M-Pesa Foundation Academy · Braeburn Group
Writes about
Leadership · Public Speaking · Learning · Community

Biography

His story.

Previously, he served as Deputy Headteacher within the Braeburn Group and as the founding Director of Teaching and Learning at M-Pesa Foundation Academy, where he helped establish a culture of inquiry, equity and academic excellence.

Guided by the African philosophy of Ubuntu — “I am because we are”, John champions learner empowerment, ethical leadership, safeguarding and equal access to quality education.

Through his writing, public speaking and professional engagements, he shares perspectives on educational leadership, character development and shaping a brighter future for the next generation.

Areas of experience

  • Educational leadership

  • Curriculum development

  • Institutional growth

Journey

Career journey

  1. Current

    Head of School

    The Nairobi Academy

  2. Previously

    Founding Director of Teaching and Learning

    M-Pesa Foundation Academy

    Helped establish a culture of inquiry, equity and academic excellence.

  3. Previously

    Deputy Headteacher

    Braeburn Group

Philosophy

Philosophy

Guided by the African philosophy of Ubuntu — “I am because we are” — John champions learner empowerment, ethical leadership, safeguarding and equal access to quality education.
  • Learner empowerment
  • Ethical leadership
  • Safeguarding
  • Equal access to quality education

On stage

Speaking & appearances

All videos

Writing

Recent articles

All articles

Article

Why Education Must Go Beyond the Classroom

Some of life's most valuable lessons are learned outside the classroom. Sports, performing arts, leadership and community service help young people discover who they are and what they can become.

2 min read

Article

The Power of Encouragement in Education

Sometimes, the most powerful thing an educator can give a student is not an answer, but the confidence to discover one.

3 min read

Quick answers

About John at a glance

Who is John Karanja?

John Karanja is an accomplished educational leader, educator and advocate for inclusive, transformative learning. He currently serves as Head of School at The Nairobi Academy, bringing extensive experience in educational leadership, curriculum development and institutional growth.

What is John Karanja's current role?

John Karanja is Head of School, The Nairobi Academy.

Where has John Karanja worked before?

He previously served as Founding Director of Teaching and Learning at M-Pesa Foundation Academy and Deputy Headteacher at Braeburn Group.

What philosophy guides John Karanja's leadership?

Guided by the African philosophy of Ubuntu — “I am because we are” — John champions learner empowerment, ethical leadership, safeguarding and equal access to quality education.

Stay in touch

Questions, invitations or ideas to share?

Reader questions, professional enquiries and collaboration requests are welcome.