Gender equality speakers are highly sought after due to the growing global focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion. These speakers offer valuable insights on combating discrimination, promoting equal pay, fostering inclusive workplaces and navigating changing policies.
Why is Gender Equality Important in the Workplace?
Gender equality in the workplace is crucial because it drives both fairness and economic growth. Currently, 2.4 billion women of working age are denied equal economic opportunities, with 178 countries maintaining legal barriers that limit their full participation. When workplaces embrace gender diversity, inclusive teams can increase productivity by up to 30%. This demonstrates that gender equality not only empowers women but also enhances organisational performance, fosters innovation, and creates a more dynamic, competitive business environment. Promoting gender equality is essential for building a sustainable future where everyone has the chance to succeed.
Why Are Gender Equality Speakers Hired for Events?
Gender equality speakers are hired for events to address the increasing importance of diversity, inclusion, and social justice. They offer valuable insights on creating equal opportunities, tackling gender biases, and promoting inclusive workplaces. Organisations seek their expertise to navigate evolving policies, inspire change, and improve decision-making through diverse perspectives. By sharing their personal journeys these speakers also resonate with audiences by addressing key issues like equal pay, empowerment, and the broader impact of gender inequality. A recent report ranked the UK 15th out of 146 countries for gender parity.
Who Are The Top Trending Gender Equality Speakers to Hire?
This exclusive selection of the Top Trending Gender Equality Speakers in the UK was collated from a combination of official sources and exclusive insights from industry experts. Event polls conducted at 112 gender equality-themed events between 2022 and 2024, provided valuable data, making this selection reflect the most impactful gender equality speakers currently available to hire.
- Jo Salter
- Inga Beale
- Arianna Huffington
- Oona King
- Emma Hayes
- Martha Lane Fox
- Joanna Shields
- June Sarpong
- Helena Kennedy
- Ruth Hunt
- Sue Campbell
- Sarina Wiegman
- Dido Harding
- Michelle King
Jo Salter MBE
Official Client Rating - 9.9/10
Jo Salter MBE broke barriers in a male-dominated industry as the first female fast jet pilot in the Royal Air Force, earning her wings in 1992 and leading an all-male squadron. Her career is a testament to resilience, determination, and performing under pressure. Transitioning to business, Jo has held leadership roles at PwC and inspires audiences globally as a speaker. With a wealth of experience in overcoming challenges, she shares captivating stories from her RAF service and corporate journey, making her an exceptional choice to motivate, educate, and inspire your audience. Hire Jo to deliver impactful insights on leadership and perseverance.
Official Feedback for Jo Salter:
"Without a doubt, Jo was the best speaker I've ever had the pleasure of listening to. Totally outstanding. A perfect balance of content within Jo's story, so relevant to our team, our lives and the event. Couldn't be rated higher, and so many amazing comments from the team about being inspired and taking insights away for change. Please pass on our enormous gratitude." - Stuart, Head of Business Delivery, Three
Inga Beale
Official Client Rating - 9.4/10
Dame Inga Beale, former CEO of Lloyd’s of London, is a prominent British businesswoman and advocate for workplace equality. As an after-dinner speaker, she focuses on inclusivity, drawing from her experience in the male-dominated insurance industry and her work in promoting gender and LGBT+ diversity. Notably, she founded the Insurance Supper Club and Pride@Lloyds. Inga was the first openly bisexual person to top the OUTstanding & FT LGBT Executive Power List and is recognised for her insights on business, Brexit, and finance, making her a sought-after speaker at corporate events.
Official Feedback for Inga Beale:
“She was sensational. So clear. A great storyteller. Candid and inspirational – exactly the 2 things we wanted to land. They loved her. As did me and my boss…. ! Please share a big thank you to her and for all the help you have provided in the process” - Jemima, Pepsico
Arianna Huffington
Official Client Rating - 9.7/10
Arianna Huffington, co-founder of The Huffington Post and founder of Thrive, is a leading voice on gender equality and workplace well-being. Known for redefining success to prioritise employee happiness and mental health, her work has transformed corporate culture globally. With 15 best-selling books and recognition on Forbes' Most Powerful Women list, Arianna offers unparalleled insights into organisational behaviour. Her expertise in tackling burnout and promoting gender equality makes her an ideal speaker for events focused on creating healthier, more inclusive workplaces.
Official Feedback for Arianna Huffington:
"We got a lot of positive feedback about Arianna, including employee Yammer posts with reflections and takeaways. Overall, super satisfied. It was a pleasure working with her" - Suzanne, Internal Communications Director Content and Channels, Tetra Pak Group
Baroness Oona King
Official Client Rating - 9.9/10
Baroness Oona King is an ideal speaker on gender equality, drawing from her extensive political and corporate experience. A Labour Party politician and the second black female MP in British history, she has made significant contributions to diversity and inclusion. Her roles at Uber, Channel 4, YouTube, and Google highlight her pioneering work in creating inclusive environments. Oona’s powerful speeches, shaped by personal experiences of discrimination and resilience, offer valuable insights on gender equality, racial justice, and diversity, leaving audiences with a fresh, more inclusive perspective.
Emma Hayes
Official Client Rating - 8.8/10
Emma Hayes, the first team manager of Chelsea Ladies FC, is a trailblazer in women’s football, being the only female manager to win the Double. With over a decade of experience, she led Chelsea to their first Women's FA Cup and Super League title. Her career spans both national and international success, including 11 major trophies at Arsenal Ladies. As an MBE and OBE recipient, Emma is also a seasoned public speaker, making her an ideal choice to inspire and advocate for gender equality in sports.
Official Feedback for Emma Hayes:
"Emma is a lovely lady, very affable and extremely funny. Her address to the room was spot on our theme and in particular, made all our female Managers/Team Leaders think about what they could achieve and what was possible – she also managed to get our very straight-laced Group MD to open up to the room a little with an exercise she conducted! I was particularly nervous to chaperone on the day but she made me (and everyone she spoke to after her address) feel totally and utterly at ease." - Yvonne, Group Support Manager, Clearsprings Group
Martha Lane Fox
Official Client Rating - 9.2/10
Baroness Martha Lane Fox, co-founder of Lastminute.com, is a trailblazing figure in digital innovation and a strong advocate for gender equality. With her leadership in both technology and public service, she has championed causes that empower women and girls. As a philanthropist, she is dedicated to creating opportunities for underrepresented groups, and her work has made a lasting impact on gender equality. Through her advocacy and public speaking, Martha Lane Fox continues to inspire, making her a sought-after speaker on gender equality and a role model for women in leadership and technology.
Official Feedback for Martha Lane Fox:
"Martha was really impressive and a number of our board approached her afterwards for a further conversation and to thank her. Our Chairman felt it was one of the best conversations we had ever hosted at our board dinners." - James, Mastercard
Baroness Joanna Shields
Official Client Rating - 9.7/10
Baroness Joanna Shields OBE is a leading expert in technology, AI, and cybersecurity, known for her extensive impact in both public and private sectors. As CEO of Precognition, she drives AI-driven solutions to address future challenges. Her experience includes senior roles at Google and Facebook and significant contributions to online safety as UK Minister for Internet Safety. A proven leader and advocate, Joanna should be hired as a gender equality speaker for her commitment to responsible, inclusive tech development and inspiring the next generation of leaders.
June Sarpong
Official Client Rating - 9.4/10
June Sarpong OBE should be hired as a gender equality speaker for her expertise in promoting diversity and tackling discrimination. As a broadcaster, author, and advocate, she has consistently used her platform to address gender inequality, the pay gap, and minority rights. Through her books, including *Diversify*, and her work with the Women: Inspiration and Enterprise Network, June has influenced British business, society, and politics. Her dynamic presentations inspire audiences to challenge discrimination and drive inclusive change, making her an impactful voice for gender equality.
Official Feedback for June Sarpong:
"The feedback was 'through the roof!' - secure to say, members loved June and the valuable insight/delivery! So, yes - all went very, very well and exceeded expectations!! A huge thank you to you, Chris and June and her team for working with me to get the positive message on D&I delivered this IWD!" - Sandra, Network Officer Treasurer, Windrush Team UK Visas & Immigration
Baroness Helena Kennedy
Official Client Rating - 9.3/10
Baroness Helena Kennedy, one of the UK's most acclaimed lawyers, should be hired as a gender equality speaker due to her extensive legal expertise and advocacy for women's rights. With over 40 years in criminal law, she has led landmark cases and campaigned for changes in domestic and sexual violence laws. Her roles in the House of Lords, international human rights organizations, and media contributions highlight her deep commitment to justice and equality, making her an influential voice on gender issues.
Baroness Ruth Hunt
Official Client Rating - 9.9/10
Baroness Ruth Hunt of Bethnal Green would be an excellent choice as a gender equality speaker due to her extensive experience advocating for LGBT+ rights, diversity, and inclusion. As former CEO of Stonewall and now Director of Deeds and Words, Ruth has led transformative campaigns, including advancing trans rights. Her leadership and passion have earned her recognition as one of Britain’s most influential LGBT+ figures. A respected voice in politics and culture change, Ruth’s compelling personal story and expertise make her a powerful and inspiring speaker on equality.
Official Feedback for Ruth Hunt:
"She’s such a wonderful speaker; her approach really suited us as an organisation and created space for people to feel comfortable sharing and asking questions. I’ve had lots of great feedback trickle in already. It’s been a real pleasure to work with Ruth, and I am feeling very smug about our choice of speaker!" - Dext, July 2021
Baroness Sue Campbell
Official Client Rating - 9.9/10
Baroness Sue Campbell is a trailblazer in sports leadership and gender equality, known for her roles as Chairman of UK Sport and Director of Women’s Football at The FA. A powerful speaker, she draws from her experience overcoming barriers in a male-dominated industry to inspire audiences to challenge gender inequality in work and society. With honours like MBE, CBE, and DBE, Sue is a role model for women in sport, motivating future generations to pursue success through hard work, passion, and resilience.
Sarina Wiegman
Official Client Rating - 9.3/10
Sarina Wiegman should be hired as a gender equality speaker because of her remarkable journey in breaking barriers in women's football. As a world-renowned football manager, she has led both the Dutch and English national teams to success, showcasing her leadership in a male-dominated industry. Sarina's experience, from being an accomplished player to winning major tournaments as a coach, provides invaluable insights into gender equality in sports. Her story will inspire audiences by highlighting the challenges and triumphs of women in football and the broader fight for equality.
Dido Harding
Official Client Rating - 9.5/10
Baroness Diana 'Dido' Harding should be hired as a gender equality speaker due to her extensive leadership experience in both the public and private sectors. A highly accomplished businesswoman and politician, Dido has held key roles such as CEO of TalkTalk and Executive Chair of NHS Test and Trace. Named among the UK's most powerful women, she brings decades of expertise in crisis management, business growth, and leadership. Her trailblazing career and insights into navigating challenges make her a powerful advocate for gender equality and inspiring transformational leadership.
Michelle King
Official Client Rating - 9.9/10
Michelle King is a renowned expert on gender equality and workplace culture, making her an ideal speaker for diversity and inclusion events. As Founder of Equality Forward and former Director of Inclusion at Netflix, Michelle has extensive experience helping organizations build cultures of equality. She offers valuable insights on gender denial, intersectionality, and the challenges faced by working parents. With accolades like LinkedIn's Top Voice for Equality and a bestselling book, Michelle delivers powerful, actionable talks to help organizations foster inclusivity and advance women's leadership.
Official Feedback for Michelle King:
"Michelle is not only extremely knowledgeable with her background and research on gender inequality, but she applies those insights specifically to the workplace and brings it to life. Michelle has a truly unique way of connecting with her audience. She makes the research come to life and provides real 'a-ha' moments and practical takeaways that can be applied in any organisation" - Claudia, CEO, SHE Global
Hire a Gender Equality Speaker Today!
If you are interested in hiring a gender equality speaker for your next event, contact Champions Speakers today! Call one of our dedicated booking agents on 0207 1010 553 or complete our online contact form to begin the hiring process.
This exclusive article on the top trending gender equality keynote speakers inspiring change was authored by Chris Tompkins, using data from Event polls conducted at 112 gender equality-themed events between 2022 and 2024, and official statistics from the House of Lords Library and World Bank.
