The Story Behind Kweli

Hi, I am Zameena (She/Her)

Somehow you’ve found yourself here, which probably means you want to get to know me and the work a little more. 

Kweli means “truth” or “real” in Swahili - a reminder that honesty and authenticity are where purpose thrives. Often when you’re deep in the work, it’s hard to see things clearly. That’s where I come in: helping leaders and teams have the real conversations that uncover what’s getting in the way, spark new ideas, and move things forward. 

I've always been the person who rolls up her sleeves, asks tough intentional questions, and finds creative ways to move forward, even when resources are limited. I thrive in untangling complexity, whether it is navigating a project stuck in limbo or launching something brand new. 

After years of working with organizations of all sizes, I realized I wanted the freedom to tailor solutions beyond traditional structures. That’s why I created Kweli Advisory Services: a flexible, strategic practice that helps leaders and organizations cut through complexity, find clarity, and make meaningful progress. 

My work is shaped by the people and places that have influenced me. Growing up in Kenya with Afro-Indian roots gave me an early appreciation for diverse perspectives and the systems that shape our world. I enjoy facilitating spaces where people with different experiences come together to collaborate, challenge assumptions, and create change. 

Now based in Canada (though my passport’s always close by), I’ve worked with clients around the world - from start-ups to universities - on communications, organizational capacity, and engagement. Whether I’m leading a strategy session, mapping out a project plan, or facilitating a virtual workshop, I meet people where they are and help move ideas into action. 

At the heart of it, I'm driven by helping leaders and organizations get unstuck - discovering what’s real, what’s possible, and how to move forward. 

At Kweli, I lead most projects independently, but never in isolation. I’m a collaborative thinker who believes the best ideas are built together. When a project calls for additional expertise, I draw from a trusted network of collaborators, including Irfana Dadani, whose deep expertise in people and culture has supported major organizational transformations for startups and growing teams.

I’m also a lifelong learner. I hold a Master’s in Public Policy and Global Affairs, am completing an Associateship in Equitable Systems Design, and am always chasing new workshops and certifications that expand how I think, lead, and create. 

So, why connect with Kweli?

I hope what you’ve read gives you a sense of who I am and how I work, but the best way to find out is through a conversation. I’m always up for a virtual or in-person coffee (or a good walk).

If you’re looking for a partner to help cut through the noise, or simply want to join a growing network of collaborative thinkers, I’d love to connect. Whether this work resonates with you or you’re just curious about what’s possible, let's connect.

Real change doesn’t happen in isolation; it happens when people, ideas, and strategies come together around a shared vision. My goal is to be your thought partner, helping you build clarity, capacity, and connection.
 

I’ve met so many incredible consultants and teams, people who bring clarity, connection, and practical know-how to every kind of project, from HR and finance to fundraising, policy, research, and change management.

Think of the Kweli Network as a modern-day switchboard: where connections are made with care, and every link makes a difference. That’s the spirit behind this network: good people doing great work, and helping each other find the right fit.

If you’re an organization looking for trusted support, I might know just the right person. And if you’re out there doing great work yourself, I’d love to know what you do so I can keep you in mind for future projects and collaborations.