Diversity and inclusion speakers serve to improve the inclusivity of a workplace environment. Helping businesses strive for better practices in diversity, they speak candidly about their own experiences, as well as discuss the best ways to create a workplace that welcomes all employees - regardless of race, gender, sexuality or disability.

Acknowledging that all team members should be treated equally and recognised for the unique contribution they make, top diversity speakers understand the essential role that diversity plays in creating a modern, forward-thinking business.

Diversity in the workplace has come a long way over the past decades, but further progress is required. According to Forbes, diversity and inclusion sit on the backburner compared to other HR initiatives, with 41% of managers claiming they are "too busy" to create diversity initiatives. It is simply not good enough, so diverse speakers are booked to trigger transformative change.

What is a Diversity Initiative?

A diversity initiative is a strategic approach organisations take to address diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) both internally and externally. These initiatives align with business goals, have clear objectives, and are measurable for impact. They require commitment from leadership and employees to create an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 legally protects nine characteristics, reinforcing the importance of DEI.

Sources: Washington State Office of Financial Management, CIPD, United Nations Global Compact

Why is Having a Diverse Team Important?

Having a diverse team is more than a moral imperative - it’s a strategic advantage. Research shows that 78% of leaders recognize diversity and inclusion as a competitive edge, and 57% of employees want their companies to do more. Diverse management teams drive 19% higher revenue through innovation, fostering fresh ideas and market adaptability. Additionally, companies with strong diversity initiatives experience 5.4 times higher employee retention, creating a more engaged and loyal workforce. By embracing different perspectives, businesses can improve decision-making, attract top talent, and build a more inclusive culture that fuels long-term success. Diversity isn’t just good ethics—it’s good business.

Sources: Deloitte, Glassdoor, Forbes & Great Place to Work

How is Workplace Diversity Changing?

• Only 8.8% of minorities worked as managers, directors and senior officials compared to 10.7% of White people
• Just 29.6% of FTSE 250 boards are women
• 62% of discriminatory queries at The Equality Advisory Support Service (EASS) are regarding disability

Sources: Changeboard, Forbes & WildGoose 

The Top 5 Diversity & Inclusion Speakers to Hire!

Having collected vetted feedback from over 327 D&I-themed events, between 2021 and 2024, Champions Speakers Director Jack Hayes has shared his selection of the top 5 diversity & inclusion speakers to hire, below:

1. Gareth Thomas

Named the Most Influential Gay Person in the UK by The Independent & Presenter of "Gareth Thomas: HIV and Me"

2. Kellie Maloney

Former Boxing Promoter, Glamour Women of the Year Transgender Champion & Subject of Amazon's "From Frank to Kellie" Documentary

3. Elaine Sihera

Founder of The Windrush Achievement Awards & The British Diversity Awards

4. Tanni Grey-Thompson

11x Paralympic Gold Medallist, Crossbench Peer in the House of Lords & Recipient of the BBC Lifetime Achievement Award

5. Katie Piper

Founder of the Katie Piper Foundation, Acid Attack Survivor & Bestselling Author of "Beautiful"

Hire a Keynote Speaker on Diversity & Inclusion Today!

If you would like to hire a diversity & inclusion speaker for your corporate event, function or conference, simply contact Champions Speakers by completing our online contact form or by calling a booking agent directly on 0207 1010 553.

This exclusive article on diversity and inclusion speakers was authored by Jack Hayes, utilising vetted feedback from over 327 D&I-themed events, between 2021 and 2024. Verified research was also collated from the Washington State Office of Financial Management, CIPD, the United Nations Global Compact, Deloitte, Glassdoor, Great Place to Work, Changeboard, Wildgoose and Forbes.

Champions Speakers' Standards: Champions Speakers Principles of Trust