UCL Policy Lab Interviews Gary Lubner to Discuss His Support for Transformative Change
In November 2023, UCL Policy Lab met with Gary Lubner, the founder of ‘This Day,’ to discuss the importance of supporting community changemakers across the United Kingdom. The interview traces Lubner’s childhood in South Africa, revealing how these experiences shaped his vision for social change and informed his current work with ‘This Day’, an organisation dedicated to creating opportunities for communities in both the UK and South Africa.
Childhood in South Africa
The piece explores how Lubner’s early life in apartheid South Africa laid the Foundation for his lifelong dedication to social justice. It focuses on a defining moment for Lubner that occurred at age 12, when he received an English football magazine, a small act of defiance against the regime’s ban on football. When Lubner saw Clyde Best alongside white teammates on West Ham’s team, he realised “what might be possible” in a more integrated society.
He notes that his family instilled a deep appreciation for kindness and charitable action. This upbringing, combined with his involvement in anti-apartheid activism at university and the powerful presence of Nelson Mandela, solidified his drive for a better world. Lubner reflects that his background instilled a belief that “every business has an absolute obligation… to give back to the communities in which they work.”
Work in the UK
Lubner’s success in building the global company Belron, which included a significant €300 million share distribution to nearly 30,000 employees, highlighted his philosophy of collective contribution. Following the company’s success, Lubner made the decision to dedicate his resources to a new purpose, leading to the establishment of ‘This Day.’
Lubner also details the Foundation’s core mission is to cultivate lasting social change. He notes that transformation is only achievable through broad collaboration, emphasising the importance of engaging with government and civil society together. To this end, ‘This Day’ supports a diverse range of initiatives and individuals, from political parties and academic researchers (such as those at UCL) to large independent charities and small community groups, all working directly to effect change. Inspired by both past mentors and the next generation, Lubner expresses a profound urgency, stating the Foundation’s name, ‘This Day,’ signifies that “this day is the moment we choose to make change.”
Read the full interview on UCL Policy Lab here.
