Kelly Knox

Kelly Knox is a British fashion model, disability advocate and keynote speaker recognised for reshaping perceptions of beauty and inclusion. Rising to prominence as the winner of Britain’s Missing Top Model, Kelly has become one of the most visible disabled models in the world, using her platform to inspire change and challenge outdated industry standards.

Kelly grew up learning to adapt in a world not designed for her, having been born without a left forearm. From the age of seven, she chose not to wear a prosthetic, a decision that shaped her confidence and identity. This early determination became a defining trait, helping Kelly develop resilience and self-belief that would later underpin both her modelling career and her work as a speaker. Her breakthrough came in 2008 when she entered and won 'Britain’s Missing Top Model', an experience that introduced her to the fashion industry and provided a platform to share her story. Rather than conforming, Kelly built her career on authenticity, embracing her difference and encouraging others to do the same.

Kelly’s career is defined by a series of barrier-breaking achievements across fashion, television and advocacy. She became one of the first disabled models to walk at London Fashion Week, marking a significant shift in industry representation. Her modelling portfolio includes major campaigns with global brands and features in leading publications such as Vogue, Grazia and Marie Claire. She has also appeared on television, including a leading role in ‘I’m Spazticus’, helping to challenge public perceptions of disability through humour and visibility. Beyond modelling, Kelly is the co-founder of the Diversity Not Disability campaign, promoting equal opportunities within the fashion industry. Her influence has been widely recognised, with repeated inclusion in the Shaw Trust Power 100 list, celebrating the most influential disabled people in the UK, alongside being shortlisted for Celebrity of the Year at The National Diversity Awards. These milestones highlight both her professional success and her impact as a changemaker.

As a keynote speaker, Kelly delivers honest and engaging talks centred on resilience, inclusion and redefining beauty standards. She shares real experiences of overcoming barriers, offering practical insight into building confidence and embracing individuality in both personal and professional environments. Her speaking work spans corporate events, educational institutions and industry conferences, where she addresses topics such as diversity, representation and self-acceptance. Her perspective is both inspiring and practical, making her a valuable voice for any event focused on meaningful change.