Roh Yakobi: A Rising Voice in Politics, Policy, and Afghan Storytelling
Roh Yakobi is a distinguished Afghan-born British consultant, analyst, podcaster, and political figure. Known for his compelling storytelling and incisive analysis on Afghanistan and international policy, Yakobi has emerged as a prominent advocate for refugees and social justice in the UK. Named among Labour’s “10 brightest new candidates” for the 2024 general elections by The New Statesman, he exemplifies dedication and resilience shaped by a deeply personal journey from refugee to political contender.
Early Life and Education
Roh Yakobi’s life story is marked by perseverance and determination. Born in Afghanistan, he survived the harrowing realities of conflict and displacement, which profoundly inform his worldview and professional focus. His academic foundation was laid at The Open University in the United Kingdom, where he earned a BA (Honours) degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE). This multidisciplinary education equipped him with critical thinking skills and a broad understanding of governance, ethics, and economic systems—key tools that underpin his work in policy analysis and political advocacy.
In addition to his degree, Yakobi undertook a Business Administration apprenticeship at Key Training Ltd, providing him with practical skills in management and organisational efficiency. His education complements his real-world experience, enhancing his capacity to navigate complex political and social issues.
Career and Professional Experience
Podcasting and Media
Since October 2023, Roh Yakobi has hosted and produced Afghanistan with Roh Yakobi, a podcast dedicated to exploring the multifaceted history, politics, and people of Afghanistan. Through thoughtful interviews with diplomats, scholars, and policymakers, Yakobi amplifies diverse Afghan voices and brings nuanced insights to a global audience. His podcast has become an important platform for understanding the country beyond headlines, shedding light on issues of conflict, culture, and resilience.
Foreign and Security Policy Analyst
With over fifteen years of experience as a freelance foreign and security policy analyst, Yakobi has advised high-profile individuals and institutions. His expertise has been sought by the UK House of Lords, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and his cabinet, the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, the International Rescue Committee, and members of the US Congress. He has provided testimony, written analyses, and appeared on British and international media, establishing himself as a respected voice on matters related to Afghanistan, security, and humanitarian policy.
Political Career
In May 2024, Yakobi was selected as the Labour Party’s parliamentary candidate for The Wrekin constituency. His rapid campaign leadership notably reduced the Conservative majority from 19,000 to under 900 votes in a seat previously regarded as unwinnable for Labour. His candidacy attracted extensive media attention locally, nationally, and internationally, underscoring his effectiveness as a community organiser and political strategist. His campaign focused on social justice, refugee rights, and community cohesion, reflecting both his personal experiences and policy expertise.
Consultancy and Advocacy
Currently, Yakobi serves as a Partnerships Consultant at Spectra, where he leads external relations with government and stakeholders to support care-experienced young people via the Care Leaver Covenant. His role emphasises youth advocacy, strategic partnerships, and social impact, further demonstrating his commitment to vulnerable groups.
Previously, he served as an Associate Fellow at the Human Security Centre in London, a think tank focused on foreign policy and international development. From January 2015 to January 2024, he contributed to policy research, stakeholder engagement, and political analysis, shaping informed approaches to security and humanitarian issues.
Editorial Leadership
Between January and August 2023, Yakobi was Editor in Chief at KabulNow.com, where he oversaw editorial direction, team management, and political reporting. His leadership enhanced the platform’s coverage of Afghan affairs, reinforcing its role as an important source for independent news and analysis.
Other Roles
Yakobi has experience in customer service as an advisor at Lloyds Banking Group, community organising with Movement for Change, and fostering community cohesion with Wolverhampton City Council. These roles reflect his dedication to grassroots engagement and improving societal welfare.
Skills and Expertise
Roh Yakobi’s diverse career reflects a wide-ranging skill set:
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Policy Analysis and Strategic Thinking: Advising government officials and NGOs on foreign policy, security, and humanitarian issues.
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Communication and Media Production: Hosting a podcast, editorial leadership, public speaking, and media appearances.
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Campaign Management: Political strategy, grassroots organising, stakeholder engagement, and public affairs.
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Project and Relationship Management: Leading partnerships and managing teams effectively in various organisational contexts.
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Research and Writing: Producing analytical reports, opinion pieces, and briefing documents for high-level decision-makers.
These competencies enable Yakobi to navigate complex political landscapes and advocate effectively for marginalized communities.
Impact and Contributions
Roh Yakobi’s work bridges the gap between Afghan realities and Western policy discourse. As a former refugee who has lived through conflict and displacement, he brings authenticity and urgency to discussions on migration, human rights, and international security. His political campaign demonstrated that commitment and effective communication can challenge entrenched political dynamics. Through his podcast and editorial roles, he has created platforms for informed dialogue and greater public understanding of Afghanistan’s ongoing challenges.
His advisory roles and media presence contribute to shaping informed policies that address both the humanitarian and geopolitical dimensions of Afghanistan and refugee affairs. Moreover, Yakobi’s advocacy for care-experienced youth in the UK highlights his broader dedication to social justice beyond his national origins.
Conclusion
Roh Yakobi exemplifies how personal experience, academic rigour, and professional expertise can combine to create impactful leadership. From surviving adversity to influencing public policy and politics in the UK, his journey is a testament to resilience and dedication. As a podcaster, analyst, consultant, and political candidate, Yakobi continues to elevate Afghan narratives and champion the rights of refugees and vulnerable populations, positioning himself as a vital voice in contemporary British and international affairs.
