In a world where racial inequality and injustice still unfortunately exists, it is more important than ever that we work together to abolish such monstrosity. Although the treatment of people from minority ethnic communities has improved, there is still significant inequality prevalent for ethnic minority groups. Businesses are heavily saturated by the white race, with only 5.4% of small and medium enterprises being led by people of an ethnic minority.

Here at Champions Speakers, we are fortunate to host a plethora of diverse and groundbreaking racial equality speakers. Their power and presence as speakers is eminent, leaving audiences feeling inspired to be proactive in changing the continued inequality that befalls people of ethnic minority descent.

Who are the Top Speakers to Hire on Racial Equality?

Take a look at Lauren Perkins' selection of astounding speakers, guaranteed to provide impeccable speeches for your next event. The following list of Top 12 Race & Minority Ethnic Keynote Speakers is based on official customer feedback from 255 events between 2022 and 2024:

1. Sir Lenny Henry

Sir Lenny Henry quickly established a reputation as a comical genius after making his big break in the sitcom The Fosters. The son of Jamaican immigrants, Lenny knows firsthand the challenges and inequality that face people of ethnic minority descent. Widely regarded as a pioneer of black comedy, Lenny is called upon to bestow audiences with tales of wisdom and diversity as an adept and influential public speaker.

Official Testimonial for Lenny:

"The event was fantastic - thank you so, so much for helping us make it happen. He struck the perfect chord of comedy, getting the message across and he attracted more people than we would usually get to attend these kind of events. We were delighted, so thank you and all of the team." - Nomura

2. Akala

Akala is widely recognised as a pivotal activist in the Black Lives Matter movement. Writer, poet, historian and MOBO Award-winning Hip-Hop artist, Akala has worked tirelessly to bring awareness to various aspects of life as someone from an ethnic minority group and various other topical political subjects. Fiercely followed by hundreds of avid supporters worldwide, Akala has delivered speeches on everything from knife crime and rehabilitation to mental health, racial inequality and social issues. Revered for his work to promote equality, Akala is highly sought after as a racial equality speaker for countless corporate events.

Official Testimonial for Akala:

"As a Citi employee, I'd like to thank Akala for speaking last week. I learned a great deal and am extremely grateful." - Citi Bank

3. Maggie Alphonsi

Retired Rugby player Maggie Alphonsi greatly impacted the sporting world. Widely known as the first female player to commentate on men’s international rugby, Maggie has pioneered the world of female rugby, breaking down the barriers and being an influential figure. As a speaker, she is frequently called upon to discuss the adversity she has overcome throughout her career, exploring diversity in sport and acting as a role model, encouraging other members of minority backgrounds to defy expectations.

Official Testimonial for Maggie:

"Firstly, I just need to say WOW!! Maggie was super fun, approachable and her story was great. Also, the way she interacted with the audience was great... blow away... feedback on the day was great too." - Women in Protection Executive Committee

4. Elaine Sihera

Hailed ‘Miss Diversity’, Elaine Sihera is an expert on emotional health, career development, relationships and confidence. A pioneer in her sector, Elaine has paved the way for minority communities, raising expectations and breaking free from the constraints of society. Founder of the British Diversity Awards, Elaine has tirelessly strived to better diversity within business and prove that everyone is capable of the incredible regardless of their race or ethnicity. Also founder of the Windrush Achievement Awards, Elaine has made it her mission to recognise and reward ethnic minorities' contributions to society where others may not.

5. Kishan Devani

Politician and international business consultant Kishan Devani is a prominent figure. He has provided his services to countless ethnically diverse companies and has travelled the globe helping others less fortunate than himself. Awarded the 2012 Asian Achievers Gold Award, 2014 Indian International Achievers Awards for Excellence in Education and 2013 Face of the Future Award at the 2013 Asian Political and Public Life Awards, it is clear that Kishan is a revered individual changing the future for minority communities worldwide.

6. Mr Motivator

Mr Motivator has dedicated his career to motivating and entertaining with his proficiency as a wellbeing and lifestyle coach. Back in 1993, Mr Motivator, otherwise known as Derrick Evans, joined GMTV to provide fitness and workout videos. Derrick was initially turned away from the programme, with the producers believing it needed to be a white woman who was leading the workouts. Eventually, he was given a chance, going on to break boundaries and forge a reputation as a black fitness icon.

Official Testimonial for Mr Motivator:

"Thank you for Derrick, we had an overwhelming amount of positive feedback so it's safe to say the session went really well." - Alex, Revenue Growth Manager, Johnson & Johnson

7. Shappi Khorsandi

Comedic genius Shappi Khorsandi has devoted her career to advocating for human rights and is pivotal in the fight for equality. Having openly discussed her multi-cultural family and experiences of racism, Shappi is looked upon as an influential figure within her community. Passionate about increasing the importance of diversity and LGBT+ acceptance, Shappi is frequently booked as a speaker to engage and captivate audiences across the globe. Bringing to light the casual racism that is ever-present in today’s society, Shappi spearheads the need for the abolishment of racism, using her comedy to create awareness.

Official Testimonial for Shappi:

"Shappi was perfect for the tone and audience on the eve. Super easy to work with, and the attendees were really excited to see her. She really connected with the audience, and suited the role perfectly (especially as this was the inaugural event.)" - Rhys, Conference Producer, Optimus Education

8. John Barnes

Esteemed former footballer John Barnes hung up his boots, going on to become a passionate and powerful anti-racism campaigner. Throughout his career as a footballer, John was an advocate against discrimination, determined to rid the sport of racial injustice. As a speaker, John discusses his personal experiences of racism and encourages people to be proactive in ridding the world of racial discrimination. John has previously delivered talks for a range of corporate clients, discussing actionable ways to pioneer inclusion.

Official Testimonial for John:

"John has such a big personality, he covered topics around racism, privilege and conditioning your mind. It was such a thought-provoking session! One of our MD's said John's one of the best speakers he's heard in a long time." - Natalie, Co-Lead EDGE ERG, Lexis Nexis Risk Solutions

9. Viv Anderson

Best known as the first-ever black player to represent England in Football, Viv Anderson has continually broken race barriers. Throughout his time as a footballer, Viv was often taunted by racist slurs coming from opposing teams’ fans. Instead of caving under the pressure and crude behaviour, Viv rose above the adversity using his prominence in the sporting world to raise awareness and change the future for other budding minority sportsmen. As a speaker, Viv is able to recount his personal experiences of racism and bring awareness to the injustices that are prominent today.

Official Testimonial for Viv:

"Viv was outstanding! He had broad appeal in our firm due to his footballing and ethnic background and people were really commending us for bringing him in. He was very entertaining and everyone loved his war stories and his opinions on diversiyt in the management of football." - Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP

10. Piers Linney

Business magnate Piers Linney is innovating the world of start-up businesses. As a Dragon on Dragon’s Den, Piers has painted a reputation as an influential businessman helping budding entrepreneurs to get on their feet in the world of business. Engaging and authoritative, Piers is spearheading diversity of race in business leadership and management. Named as one of the Top 100 Black Britons, Piers is an impactful figure, exceeding racial barriers and striving against adversity.

Official Testimonial for Piers:

"Offered a unique insight into the topics discussed based on his own experiences, and his genuine understanding of capital markets." - Thomson Reuters

11. Leon Rolle (Locksmith)

Internationally famous as part of the band Rudimental, Leon Rolle is a popular speaker amongst a range of demographics. Otherwise known by his nickname Locksmith, Leon has spent his career entertaining thousands on stages across the world. He was awarded the 2013 Best Album MOBO Award, recognising him as an influential black musician. As a speaker, Leon is able to provide entertaining and informative after-dinner tales of his experiences, inspiring other ethnic minority groups to pursue a career in music.

Official Testimonial for Leon:

"Just to drop a message to say all went well today - everything worked perfectly from a technical side and Leon's speech was great. If anyrhing, we could have listened to him for longer - the apprentices loved it and had so many questions for him." - KPMG

12. Kanya King

Founder of the MOBO Awards, Kanya King is widely known for her dedication to celebrating diversity and inclusion. Her prestigious award ceremony recognises the talent of minority ethnic communities in fashion, culture, media and arts. An avid supporter of several charities, including The African-Caribbean Leukaemia Trust and Action Medical Research, Kanya is a passionate philanthropist determined to create positive change. Named one of The Guardian's Top 20 Ethnic Minorities in the Media and The Evening Standard's 1000 Most Influential People in London, Kanya is highly regarded throughout mainstream media. A passionate and engaging speaker, Kanya is the perfect choice to represent and inspire ethnic minority communities.

Official Feedback for Kanya:

"Kanya is an inspiration to women around the world! Listening to her journey really kicked off the launch of our diversity & inclusion programme. Her endless energy and positivity shines through in her speaking. Our employees left feeling motivated, invigorated and compelled to follow their dreams." - AOL Interntional

Hire an Incredible Racial Equality Speaker Now!

To hire one of our impactful racial equaltiy speakers have a browse through the incredible talent that Champions Speakers have on offer. Interested in booking? Fill out our online booking form or give one of our dedicated booking agents a call on 0207 1010 553.

This exclusive article on the top race and minority ethnicity speakers to hire was authored by Lauren Perkins, utilising vetted positive customer feedback from over 255 events that have taken place between 2022 and 2024. 

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