Samuel Kasumu: Biography, Career, Net Worth & Resignation

Samuel Fisayo Kasumu is a British-Nigerian entrepreneur, political strategist, and writer. He is best known for his time as a government adviser under Prime Minister Boris Johnson, where he served as a voice for civil society and communities. 

Beyond politics, he has worked to empower young people, improve diversity in leadership, and create opportunities for underrepresented groups. His journey has been defined by resilience, faith, and an outsider’s perspective. These qualities helped him overcome challenges and achieve influence in politics and business.

Early Life and Family 

Samuel Kasumu was born in August 1987. He grew up in London in a working-class family with Nigerian roots. His family life was difficult. His father was absent for long periods and did not play a consistent role in raising the children. Samuel mother traveled often to Nigeria, which left Samuel and his siblings to manage on their own. He was the fourth of five children, and the first of two sons. This background shaped his independence and determination at a young age.

Growing up, he was exposed to challenges that many children in disadvantaged communities face. He moved through different schools and environments. At times, he lacked stability and structure at home. Yet despite the difficulties, he developed a sense of responsibility early in life. His experiences gave him an understanding of hardship, but also of the need for resilience and self-belief.

Education

Samuel’s education journey was far from straightforward. As a young student, he faced difficulties that led to him being excluded from three schools. This could have been the end of his academic path, but he refused to give up. Eventually, he found stability in a school that allowed him to achieve good grades. This turnaround became a defining moment. It proved that setbacks did not have to determine the rest of his life.

After completing his school education, Samuel received an offer to study at Imperial College London, one of the UK’s most prestigious universities. However, he chose not to accept the offer. He felt that the institution lacked representation of students from working-class backgrounds, and he feared he would not belong there. Instead, he chose Brunel University London, where he studied business and management.

Career

Samuel’s career began with a focus on social impact. While still at university, he co-founded Elevation Networks, a youth employment charity. Its aim was to help young people and graduates gain access to opportunities in the job market. This organization became well respected for tackling issues of unemployment and inequality.

Later, Samuel founded Inclusive Boards, an executive search and advisory firm. Its mission was to improve diversity on leadership boards and within organizations. Through this venture, he worked with charities, companies, and institutions to make leadership more representative of society. This work gained him recognition as someone committed to social change through practical solutions.

Samuel became involved with the Conservative Party during his early career. He stood as the Conservative candidate for Croydon North in the 2017 General Election. Although he was not elected, the experience strengthened his profile in politics. It gave him firsthand exposure to the realities of campaigning and representing communities.

In 2019, Samuel Kasumu was appointed as a Special Adviser for Civil Society and Communities in Downing Street under Boris Johnson. In this role, he acted as a link between government and community groups. He worked to ensure that diverse voices were included in policy discussions. He was also one of the most senior Black advisers in government at the time.

During his time in government, he contributed to projects aimed at empowering civil society. He focused on issues of race, inclusion, and building stronger community ties. His presence in Downing Street highlighted the importance of diversity in political decision-making.

Resignation and Controversy

In 2021, the UK Government released the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities Report. The findings were controversial. The report suggested that institutional racism was not as widespread as many believed. Critics accused the government of downplaying systemic inequality. As a senior Black adviser, Samuel found himself at the center of this debate.

Following the report, Samuel Kasumu resigned from his role as Special Adviser. His resignation was linked to his disappointment with how racial issues were being handled. Reports revealed that he had considered resigning earlier due to growing frustration with government policies. He was persuaded to stay at the time but ultimately decided to leave.

His resignation sparked wider discussion about race, representation, and government accountability. It showed the challenges faced by minority voices working within political institutions. For Samuel, it was a turning point that led him to focus on other forms of leadership outside government.

Books and Writings

The Power of the Outsider

In 2023, Samuel released his book The Power of the Outsider: A Journey of Discovery. The book is both autobiographical and reflective. It explores what it means to be an outsider in society and how that perspective can become a source of strength. Drawing on his own life, he encourages readers to embrace difference as a pathway to leadership and resilience.

Other Publications

Before this, he also wrote Winning the Race: A Young Man’s Thrilling Journey Through Business, Politics, and Faith. This book highlighted his journey through social entrepreneurship and politics. It also demonstrated how his faith guided him through challenges. Both works underline his belief that challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth.

Age and Net Worth

Born in 1987, Samuel Kasumu is now 37–38 years old in 2025. His career spans politics, business, and writing. While exact figures of his net worth are not available, it is clear that he has built financial stability through his ventures. 

His work as an entrepreneur, author, and public speaker has contributed to his professional success. However, unlike many public figures, he does not focus on wealth as a marker of achievement. Instead, his influence is measured by social impact and leadership.

Conclusion

Samuel Kasumu’s story is one of overcoming adversity and making a difference. From a difficult childhood in London to serving at the highest levels of government, his journey is remarkable. His resignation from government revealed his principles and willingness to stand by his values. 

Through his books and businesses, he continues to influence conversations about diversity, leadership, and the power of being an outsider. His life shows that personal struggles can be turned into strength, and that service to others is the highest form of leadership.