PODCAST: The Rest is Politics: Leading with Alastair Campbell & Paul van Zyl

What can South Africa’s transition from apartheid teach us about navigating today’s most pressing global challenges? The Conduit’s CEO and Co-founder, Paul van Zyl, joins Alastair Campbell on The Rest Is Politics: Leading to reflect on his extraordinary experiences working alongside Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the importance of moral leadership and reconciliation, and how the philosophy of ‘ubuntu’ continues to inspire his work bringing people together to drive positive change.

At 25 years old, Paul van Zyl became Executive Secretary of South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, playing a pivotal role in a historic process that sought to confront the injustices of apartheid while laying the foundations for a democratic future. In this podcast, Paul shares remarkable first-hand accounts of working alongside Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, reflecting on the courage, compassion and political leadership required to bring a deeply divided nation together.

For Paul, these experiences continue to inform his work today. Rooted in the South African philosophy of ubuntu – I am because we are – The Conduit brings together a global community of changemakers to tackle some of the world’s most urgent social and environmental challenges. From mobilising investment in nature-based solutions through the FloodAction Coalition to reimagining sporting venues as catalysts for community impact at conference Venues for IMPACT in partnership with Levy and Aston Villa, Paul explores how collaboration across sectors can turn ambitious ideas into tangible action.

Paul’s conversation with Alastair offers insight into the philosophy behind The Conduit, and why bringing people together remains fundamental to creating a more just, prosperous and sustainable future.