Clara Cole is Deputy Director-General of the Commonwealth Foundation.
Ms Cole has a background in working to strengthen civil society through promoting accountable and inclusive governance, as well as safeguarding democratic processes. Prior to joining the Foundation, she directed regional electoral programmes across Africa at the International Foundation for Electoral Systems. She has also held roles in the UK Electoral Commission, Commonwealth Secretariat, Freedom House and AECOM International Development.
With familiarity of the Commonwealth system and expertise in the protection of democracy, Ms Cole brings a deep understanding of the Foundation’s mission and work to her role. Her demonstrated interest in and commitment to the wellbeing of civil society has equipped her with valuable insight to move the Foundation forward.
Razmi Farook is Director-General of the Commonwealth Foundation.
Razmi brings exceptional leadership experience from senior roles in civil society and intergovernmental organisations, including the United Nations, the International Federation of the Red Cross, and ActionAid International. Her career has focused on supporting marginalised and war-affected communities, advocating for equity, inclusion, and active civil society participation in governance and decision-making processes.
Ms Farook’s work includes leading humanitarian diplomacy with ASEAN and its member states on disaster resilience, managing complex humanitarian portfolios across Africa, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East, and most recently directing ActionAid’s Asia Region and Global Humanitarian Programmes. Her strong commitment to civil society, human rights, and sustainable development positions her uniquely to guide the Foundation’s future work.
