Matt Ellison's journey is one that amplifies the fears, acceptance, relief and joy of human life. Showing that daring to do can result in immense happiness, Matt transitioned from female to male (FTM) in 2013 after 39 years struggling with living in the wrong identity. Making one of the biggest fundamental changes a person can make, he dealt with his own demons as well as the demands of the social side of transitioning. Matt's story details the highs and lows of his journey to identify outwardly the same way he always did internally. His whole life Matt knew he was a boy. Overcome with fear at the thought of sharing his secret, he planned to take it to his grave. But over the years the need to transition grew and eventually Matt sought help. His very first counselling session unlocked the answers for him to face his fears enabling him to transition socially and medically.
It ended up bringing him closer to family and friends dispelling all fears he previously had. "It's been an incredible journey; I don't know why I was so scared." Informing clients of his transition, Matt was also struck by the positivity from both parents and students of his guitar school. Inspiring stories of how students were quick to accept his transition is a common theme of his speeches. Speaking with courage and passion on the changes that have come to have a dramatic impact on his own life Matt educates audiences with stories that uncover humankind's ability to deal with change. Matt was co-chair of FTM London, the UK's leading support group for trans men, he’s engaged with NHS England to help improve trans care and he educates businesses on the legislation and safe practices for those transitioning.
Matt's pride speeches are aimed to kick-start initiatives within the workplace to ensure people are able to fully connect with the subject of diversity and inclusion. Matt has helped kick-start these initiatives as a speaker for some of the largest companies in the world including Microsoft, Rolls Royce, eBay, Disney, Toyota, Mars, NHS, Lacoste and Portal Dental Care to name a few. What makes speaks truly unique is that they are aimed at the whole audience, not just the LGBTQ+ community. A personable speaker, Matt connects and relates with anyone in his audience, whether they are struggling with their identity, or those who are seeking to live a more fulfilling life.
His influence has helped many people to access the support they need to transition and his efforts have extended into helping that the welfare of British trans people in transition is taken care of, but there is still a long way to go. Matt discusses how small changes in approach can build an inclusive workplace environment and how a safe space for employees to share is important to a positive company culture. He uncovers the benefits of diversity and inclusion initiatives in work, as well as delivers workshops on topics such as mental toughness and overcoming adversity.
Able to discuss the trans community in relation to legislation, Matt offers leading insight on equality, the social and professional side of transitioning, as well as diversity and inclusion. Industries from education to business, healthcare to politics can all benefit from Matt's down-to-earth and cultured addresses. A fascinating speaker ideal for Q&As and keynote presentations, Matt delivers an awe-inspiring account of his own experiences, tailored around the themes of any conference. Champions Speakers' Managing Director, Jack Hayes, had the honour of interviewing Matt on his transgender journey. Matt revealed the reception from his family, the impact it had on his business, and what corporations can do to support their diverse workforce - find our more, in our exclusive interview with Matt Ellison.
How to hire Matt Ellison
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Matt Ellison for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
Matt Ellison can speak on a number of topics that include the following:
- Change, Courage & Motivation – Matt overcame his fears to risk everything; his family, friends, business and the fear of being branded a "freak" by society to take on the scariest challenge of his life; transitioning from female to male. Uncovering strategies to increase positivity, motivation, embrace change and overcome fear, Matt compels audiences with a down-to-earth presentation of his life-changing journey.
- Diversity & Inclusion – Matt offers practical advice on how diversity and inclusion can make a business thrive. From the business benefits of productivity, engagement and retention to the individual benefits, Matt discusses best practice, as well as policies and procedures.
- Equality & Rights – Matt can ensure businesses are working in accordance with The UK Gender Recognition Act. The act states the right to be respected and accepted regardless of race, religion, sexuality and gender identity.
- Gender & Identity– Matt explores self-identity and self-realisation, with reference to his own inner conflicts. Outlining the differences between sex, gender and sexuality, as well as the internal and external factors behind how a person identifies, he offers an inspirational keynote presentation.
- Social Norms – Social norms can be exhausting and severely limiting; Matt has questioned convention to enjoy the liberation of change, promoting his own self-identity and confidence.
- Trans Awareness & Acceptance – In raising awareness of transgender issues, Matt has helped transgender people and the support network of transgender people to understand and aid their loved ones.
Official Feedback from In-Person & Virtual Events
Feedback from Virtual Events:
"We were very happy with Matt's preparation and performance" - Derek, Toyota
"Please share our endless gratitude with him. He did such a phenomenal job and we are so appreciative of his willingness to share his story with the Qualtrics team. Thanks also to you for helping us organise it all!" - Bridget, Qualtrics
"Matt was incredible today and was a joy to work with start to finish!" - Malia, Design Operations Manager, Epiq Global
"Matt hosted a brilliant and eye-opening session on what it means to be a trans man. I never thought about how problematic it can be to have gender specific uniforms and force someone who identifies as a man to wear a skirt. But it makes so much sense! Thank you Matt for making me realise what a difference the “little” things in life can make." - Cathrine, Alpha FMC
"Matt’s ability to interweave his personal journey, into broader discussions around social rights, access and inclusivity, creates a space to reflect upon our own experience searching for a voice and identity and how that has affected the way in which we engage with, and are engaged by, the world around us. Yet, what stood out to me most about Matt’s session was, the empathetic warmth at its’ centre; that beyond necessary and important discussions around difference, we should never lose sight of our similarities. The desire to feel accepted, included, loved and safe is universal. And the way in which Matt shares his story not only allows you to feel included, but the pride with which he tells it, is genuinely inspiring. Thank you Matt" - Anton, Alpha FMC
"Pandemic or no pandemic, nothing can stop our Kentucky Fried pride celebrations. To get the party started Matt Ellison joined us virtually to share his personal journey and experiences. Buckets of love and gratitude to Matt for such an inspiring, authentic session." - KFC
"Thank you so much. Such a touching and illuminating discussion. I feel very lucky to have been there to hear your story. Every workplace needs this presentation." - Virtual Event, 2020
"He was brilliant. The students just loved him. For me it was like working with a good friend. So, an all-round excellent job." - Stephen Simms, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
"Having never met someone transgender before, I was really looking forward to hearing Matt talk about his story. what I hadn't prepared for was how much I wanted to learn about the transgender community after his talk. Since hearing Matt speak, I can't stop reading and learning about this topic. Matt has the most unique ability to pass wisdom - without being preachy - in such a way that left us wanting to educate ourselves. Matt provides a sensitive yet influential argument about some hot topics relating to gender and diversity. I have no hesitation in recommending Matt." - Deborah Mowbray, Senior HR Business Partner
"Wanted to share how fantastic Matt was today! Matt shared a wonderful and insightful personal story. Along with sharing the situation in the UK and the importance of Transgender Day of Remembrance. His storytelling ability was incredibly insightful and captivating! The audience was incredibly grateful and have had several people reach out to share how wonderful it was to hear Matt’s story and how eye-opening it was! I’d highly recommend Matt as a speaker, his ability to connect with the audience and share his story with such openness truly leads to change in people!" - Johnson & Johnson
Feedback from In-Person Events:
"Matt was great! The event ran smoothly and the presentation and information were both educational and engaging. The Q&A session was very active and I loved that Matt openly encouraged our audience to ask anything and reiterated it was a safe space. Would absolutely recommend him!" - Kimberly Clark Corporation
"Matt was fantastic. He brought great energy and delivered a personal, honest but inspirational story. We were very happy" - James, Microsoft
“One of the best talks I’ve ever heard at a conference!” - Robbie Turner, Royal Pharmaceutical Society
“Matt Ellison speaks with authenticity and truth. He shares his knowledge and life experiences with candour and emotionally connects everyone in the room in an instant. I learn something from Matt every time I hear him speak!” - Gina Battye, Authenticity Coach
“I have no hesitation in recommending Matt to speak at any event across any industry vertical. I think his stories around transformation and change, and the bravery and courage in personal journey, is something that is applicable to any type of person in any type of industry” - Jonathan MacDonald, Sunday Times Best Seller
We got many good comments from the audience, and the organising team were so happy with Matt's presentation and Q&A - really perfectly matched what we wanted to achieve. - Derek, Toyota
"It was a great and engaging conversation. We really enjoyed having Matt speak to the team!" - Aaron, Head of Human Resources, Lightsource BP
