The Power of the Outsider

York Ideas Lecture

Samuel Kasumu was the most senior black advisor in Boris Johnson’s government, until he left in April 2021. Throughout his time in Whitehall, Samuel became increasingly aware that he was an outsider – that his own experiences, assumptions and language were so different to many of those he found himself surrounded by in Downing Street.

Join this discussion as Samuel considers who outsiders are, why they are not talked about enough and how it can be a source of strength that leads them to become high achievers, while reflecting on the fact that the success of many great people can be explained by their outsider status. Drawing on his own experiences in government, growing up and beyond, as well as the stories of other outsiders, famous and lesser known, Samuel will demonstrate how outsiders are more likely to be trailblazers and break barriers, how they have a greater sense of perspective and progress and how our differences can be a force for good – in politics and beyond.

This event will be followed by book-signings of The Power of the Outsider: A Journey of Discovery, with books provided by Fox Lane Books.