Tell us a little bit about you and the work you do!
Joseph Kimani; Community development practitioner and human rights defender of social and political justice. Have worked with Slum Dwellers for the last 25 years.
What’s the last thing that made you laugh or feel really happy?
Feeling happy that I will be a dad again!
What do you like to do in your leisure time? Do you have any passions or hobbies? What do you like about them?
I like watching movies and at times playing Candy Crush! I spend most of my weekends hiking and walking in the park.
How do you relax?
Reading my diaries and re-visiting my old photo album
Can you give us a recommendation for a good book? Why do you like it?
Yes. The Leaderless Revolution: How ordinary people will take over power and change Politics in the 21st Century. The key takeaways include: That ordinary people already have the power to organize, cooperate and solve problems.
Do you listen to podcasts? Do you have any you suggest we try out? Why?
I have not been listening to Podcasts but believe it is a powerful tool of communication.
Any good websites that we should know about?
Yes! = sdinet.org it gives a summary of impact stories and innovative programs by Slum Dwellers movements.
Learned anything new recently that gets you excited?
Yes! The concept of Social Metabolic Risks: The idea of how Cities must balance resource use with human needs (e.g. water, energy and food). The imbalance creates systemic risks like; Health crises, climate shocks, food insecurity, water scarcity and conflict and environmental degradation. etc
Do you have some clothes or a particular outfit that makes you feel good? Why?
I am comfortable with any casual smart wear!
What’s your favourite smell? Why?
I like the smell of Nature (forest) and Ocean breeze!!!!
What TV or film do you find entertaining? What would you recommend?
I like Youtube because I can catch up with any news that I missed and whatever is trending. I am more particularly interested in social change and music. Occasionally on Netflix limiting my options to great documentaries and true stories.
What’s your favourite meal? Why? Does it have any significance?
I started 2 years ago to eliminate out of choice gluten from my diet and now am gluten intolerant. My favorite meal is plenty of meat (roasted lamb, chicken and fish)
Who would you recommend we follow on social media? Why?
Yes! Social media is becoming a good option to reach out to younger generations. Especially in Kenya.