“I love what I do and the purpose of what I do is growing leaders…”
The team at KORI is made up of talented and proactive individuals. Sagan Daniels has carved out a distinctive path, driven by his deep commitment to advocating for equality, diversity, and inclusion.
After honing his artistic skills at drama school, Sagan joined KORI as trainer facilitator, where his passion for the arts and advocacy began to take shape. He later transitioned to England Rugby through Saracens, where he spent 15 years and founded The Rugby Black List, an initiative amplifying the contributions of Black individuals in the sport. Now, as KORI’s Programmes Director, Sagan is expected to take the helm as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in three years, continuing his mission of championing diversity in every space he occupies.
Sagan Daniels’ journey into youth work began at an early age, with his involvement in local school initiatives and various community activities. In 2005, while working a street outreach role, a colleague invited him to join the youth charity she was involved with, marking a pivotal moment in his career. “She gave me a platform and an opportunity to use my skills and experiences in a way that truly impacted young people and their development,” Sagan recalls. This opportunity not only deepened his commitment to youth advocacy but also laid the groundwork for his ongoing work with KORI.
Reflecting on how KORI has shaped him personally and professionally, Sagan acknowledges its profound influence. “There have been two critical moments in my life where I questioned my sense of belonging and identity, and KORI was there to help me unpick and unpack those questions,” he shares. The organisation provided him with a safe and supportive environment to explore his identity, confidence, and self-belief. “KORI has been a beautiful test bed for me to feel secure, express myself fully, and creatively push my boundaries”, Sagan explains. He credits KORI not only with cultivating his potential but also with helping him channel that potential into something impactful for the wider community.
“That’s what KORI is all about – harnessing and shaping people’s abilities into something powerful for the community it serves.”
Sagan reflects on the complexities and challenges inherent in youth work, emphasising that at the core of KORI’s mission is ensuring that a strong youth advocacy voice is embedded in every aspect of practice and decision-making. Over the years, Sagan has witnessed KORI’s remarkable growth, observing its transformation from what was initially ‘a Black artists´ led group that had young people involved to an organisation now running comprehensive inclusion and extracurricular programmes.
He acknowledges the strides KORI has made, particularly in “building a really firm foundation for sustainability,” ensuring its work can continue to serve communities in the long term. One of his main goals moving forward is to ensure KORI remains at the forefront of people’s attention. As society increasingly needs organisations like KORI, it’s crucial that they do not become overlooked.
“It’s not an appropriation project, it’s not kind of a White Saviour Complex.”
One of KORI’s founding principles is fostering a connection between the British diaspora and its continental African heritage. Sagan explains that for many young people in Britain, the lack of a meaningful connection to their heritage can act as a barrier to personal and professional growth. By bridging this gap, KORI aims to provide young people with a sense of identity and belonging that can propel them forward.
KORI’s approach to its work is rooted in striving for excellence, with a focus on genuine cultural exchange. Sagan notes that KORI is dedicated to creating environments rich in mutual learning, where skill and knowledge transfer is a two-way process. This kind of transactional richness not only benefits the young people and communities KORI serves but also strengthens the organisation itself.
At its heart, KORI is deeply committed to the well-being of its people. “We just want our people to be happy in their work, and consequently, in their lives”, Sagan shares.
As the conversation draws to a close, Sagan reflects on the support he’s received throughout his journey, expressing deep gratitude for those who believed in him. He fondly recalls how KORI’s CEO, Odiri, recognised his potential early on. “Odiri saw that potential that I wouldn’t necessarily see in myself,” he shares, emphasising how crucial that belief was in shaping his path.
When asked what advice he would give to others, Sagan’s response is simple yet powerful: “When somebody shows belief in you, match their belief with your own belief.” It’s a sentiment that encapsulates his experience at KORI – one of growth, support, and empowerment. With that same belief, Sagan looks ahead, committed to continuing his work, fostering potential in others, and ensuring that KORI remains a vital force in years to come.
Written by: Maria Jose Calderon
