Farah Pandith

Farah Pandith is a pioneer of inclusion and diversity within politics. She was appointed as the first-ever Special Representative to Muslim Communities in 2009. Working in the sector of countering violent extremism, she has dedicated her career to ensuring a more peaceful, equal world. As an after dinner speaker, audiences are regularly enthralled by Farah and her core message of inclusion. She can light up an event, and leave guests inspired to better their own community.

The security and risk speaker is the author of "How We Win: How Cutting-Edge Entrepreneurs, Political Visionaries, Enlightened Business Leaders and Social Media Mavens Can Defeat the Extremist Threat", which explores topics such as extremism, politics and religion. When appearing at events, Farah expands upon her books, inviting audiences to fully understand the complex nature of extremism.

In her role as the Special Representative to Muslim Communities, Farah engaged with Muslims on an international stage, both as individuals and influential organisations. She believes in engaging with Muslim communities, especially young people, to ensure that the standard for quality of life is met and to reduce the risk of extremist actions. Farah gave a voice to Muslim communities across the world.

She reported to the Secretary of State, and launched several youth focused initiatives to improve the opportunities for Muslim young people. In recognition of her work, Farah was awarded the Secretary's Distinguished Honor Award. As an after dinner speaker, she discusses her experience or religious equal opportunities, a thrilling career story that leaves many audiences with an improved perspective.

Additional awards won by Farah include the European Academy of Sciences and Arts Ring of Tolerance, the Tufts University Alumni Distinguished Achievement Award and the University of Massachusetts Lowell Public Service Award. She was even listed as one of Boston Magazine’s Top Thinkers of 2014 and Washingtonian’s 100 Most Powerful Women of 2011.

Farah holds the key to improving the lives of Muslim youth. As described in her books, she uses her platform as a speaker to promote the importance of "open power", otherwise known as "the ability to solve critical human challenges through peer-to-peer exploration, collaboration and ownership".