This week’s Comms Spotlight is Dr. Damaris Nyabuti Oeri, Founder and Lead Consultant at Dharkemmy Corporate Communications. Her career began with a deep passion for storytelling, diplomacy, and advocacy. Over the years, she has worked across industries and institutions, shaping narratives, strengthening reputations, and amplifying African voices on the global stage. Her career has been defined by a commitment to amplifying African voices in global conversations. In her interview with us, Dr. Damaris shares the lessons leadership has taught her, what it really takes to run a communications agency, and why boldness and authenticity matter in building a lasting career.
How did you begin your career in Communications?
My career in Communications was born out of both passion and conviction. I began my journey with a solid academic grounding in Communication, Media, and International Relations, complemented by exposure to both local and global platforms where storytelling, diplomacy, and advocacy were key.
From the very start, I was drawn to the power of strategic communication as more than just messaging. I saw it as a tool for influence, policy shaping, and nation branding. Over the years, I honed my skills by working across diverse industries and institutions, where I came face-to-face with the realities of how communication can either build or break reputations. That early exposure shaped my philosophy: communications is not just about publicity; it is about purpose, positioning, and power.
What motivated you to start Dharkemmy Corporate Communications?
Dharkemmy Corporate Communications was born out of a vision to bridge the gap between traditional communication practices and the dynamic demands of the modern world. I saw how businesses, governments, and organisations in Africa often struggled to articulate their unique value propositions in ways that resonated both locally and globally.
I was motivated by the desire to provide a platform that not only delivers strategic PR solutions but also mentors and nurtures the next generation of communicators. Dharkemmy became a vehicle for me to bring global best practices into the African context, while amplifying African voices on the regional and international stage. What started as a bold step of faith has grown into a powerhouse consultancy trusted by leading institutions, corporates, and development partners.
What are some lessons being a leader has taught you?
Leadership has taught me that vision must be married to empathy. As a leader, I have learned that people are at the heart of strategy—whether clients, teams, or stakeholders. I discovered that credibility and trust are built not just by delivering results, but also by creating spaces where people feel heard, valued, and inspired.
Another key lesson has been adaptability. In a constantly evolving communications landscape, agility is non-negotiable. I have also learned that leadership is not about titles but about influence—the ability to mobilise others around a shared purpose and to inspire excellence even in the face of uncertainty.
Tell us about a project that was very rewarding for you on your career journey.
One of the most rewarding projects was leading a national-level communication campaign that sought to reposition a Kenyan brand within the highly competitive East African market. The project required balancing cultural nuances, political sensitivities, and brand equity challenges.
I mobilised a team of multidisciplinary experts, deployed research-driven strategies, and crafted messaging that spoke directly to people’s aspirations. The campaign not only delivered measurable outcomes in terms of visibility and market growth but also became a case study in how communications can build trust and national pride.
Watching the tangible transformation of public perception reminded me why I chose this path—it was proof that communication is both an art and a science, with the power to influence economies and societies.
What are some things most people don’t know about starting a Communications agency?
Starting a Communications agency is more than creativity and glossy campaigns. Behind the scenes, it demands grit, consistency, and resilience. Many people don’t realise the weight of balancing client expectations with market realities, or the necessity of continuous learning to stay ahead in a fast-paced digital era.
It also requires a deep understanding of law, ethics, and governance because communications is not just about amplifying voices—it is about safeguarding reputations. Perhaps the biggest secret is that running a Communications agency is both challenging and exhilarating. Every project is a chance to rewrite narratives, create new futures, and position Africa at the center of global conversations.
What advice would you give to your younger professional self?
I would tell my younger self to embrace boldness without fear, because the world belongs to those who dare to dream and execute. I would remind her that every setback is simply a setup for a comeback. I would emphasise the importance of building networks early, seeking mentorship, and never underestimating the power of continued learning.
Above all, I would tell her that her voice matters—and that as long as she remains authentic, strategic, and committed to excellence, the world will always make space for her.
