Hayley Mulenda is recognised as one of the most inspiring young voices within the United Kingdom, an established keynote speaker, consultant, and change agent. Hayley has worked across the Middle East, North America, Europe, and Africa, impacting individuals and organisations globally. The Black Business Show x HSBC acknowledged her as one of the top 25 black entrepreneurs to watch in 2024. After nearly taking her own life at the age of 18, Hayley had a profound realisation about the growing impact of mental health issues on millennials, which ignited her passion to make a difference. This experience has propelled her to become a credible advocate for diversity, inclusion, mental health, and wellbeing.
Hayley’s personal journey and unique insights have led her to speak on some of the world's most prestigious stages, including Wembley Arena and Oslo Spektrum. Her mission to bridge the gap between generations, particularly between leaders and millennials/Gen Zs, is one of her core focuses. She also facilitates female empowerment sessions across the Middle East, assisting female corporate leaders in the MENA region in building confidence in their public speaking skills. Hayley has collaborated closely with senior leaders at Google MENA, META MENA, and MBC, empowering them to create inclusive work environments.
In addition to her speaking engagements, Hayley serves on the board of Wagamama, where she works alongside the CEO to engage young people from diverse backgrounds. Her unique skills have enabled her to work closely with C-Suite executives and graduates from FTSE 100 and Fortune 50 companies, providing strategies to improve employee retention and aiding leaders in connecting with younger workforces through reverse mentoring and other initiatives. Hayley has delivered impactful keynotes at Microsoft’s HQ in Redmond, partnered with senior leaders at Unilever, and supported a broad range of clients, including JP Morgan, Harrods, Clifford Chance, and others. Furthermore, she has contributed her expertise on social mobility and youth engagement to public sector initiatives, including advising government officials and the Commonwealth Secretariat.
Specialising in unforgettable keynotes, fireside chats, workshops, and seminars, Hayley’s talks have been described as mesmerising, impactful, and life-changing. As Maya Angelou once said, "You may not always remember what they say, but with Hayley’s talks, you will always remember how she made you feel." This captures the essence of Hayley’s impact—she leaves her audiences deeply moved and inspired, not just with her words but with her ability to empower others to find their own voice and make meaningful changes in their lives.
How to hire Hayley Mulenda
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Hayley Mulenda for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
Hayley Mulenda's official speaking topics are listed below:
Real Models, Not Role Models -
This keynote highlights the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership, particularly in a digitally savvy world dominated by social media, where curated images often overshadow reality. In fostering better cohesion with Gen-Z and Millennial workforces, the message underscores that leaders don't need to be traditional role models but should instead focus on being "real models" who inspire others to become the best versions of themselves. By embracing authenticity, especially in an environment where superficiality can prevail, leaders can create more genuine connections with their teams, leading to a more cohesive and motivated workplace. This approach encourages leaders to make "being real" the ideal, demonstrating that true power lies in authenticity rather than in portraying an unattainable image. Authentic leadership, particularly in this digital age, is key to building trust, loyalty, and long-term success within the workforce.
Human Beings -
This keynote emphasises the vital importance of prioritising personal happiness and well-being, particularly for leaders in high-pressure environments. It challenges the common focus on "securing the bag" at the expense of losing oneself, advocating instead for a balance between achievement and fulfilment. Leaders are reminded that people connect with them not because of what they do, but because of who they are— human beings, not just human doings. The session provides practical strategies for maintaining authenticity, mental health, and genuine fulfilment while navigating the demands of intense work environments. By focusing on self-care and personal happiness, leaders can build stronger, more authentic connections with their teams, fostering a culture of trust and empathy. This keynote serves as a call to action for leaders to lead not only others but also themselves with compassion, ensuring they thrive both professionally and personally.
Building Bridges, Not Walls -
This keynote emphasises the importance of genuine connection and support in the workplace, especially as the effects of COVID-19 continue to impact work culture. It reminds leaders that the best present they can give their teams is their presence— showing up authentically and engaging with their workforce on a meaningful level. The session will explore practical strategies for creating a work culture where younger employees, particularly Gen-Z and Millennials, feel not just tolerated but celebrated. By making "support" a cornerstone of the workplace, leaders can foster an environment where their team members truly thrive. This keynote will guide leaders on how to actively involve their younger workforce in the company culture, ensuring that they feel valued, motivated, and connected. It’s a call to action to move beyond mere tolerance and towards creating a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive workplace where everyone can flourish.
Be Visible: The Power of Personal Branding -
In this keynote, Hayley shares her 12-year journey of building a personal brand that has grown to a global community of nearly half a million people. Through millions of views and impactful content, Hayley turned visibility into influence, income, and lasting impact. Coming from a low socio-economic background, Hayley has spoken on some of the world’s greatest stages and secured top clients - all by mastering the art of being visible. This keynote will remind you that visibility is essential to building your brand, influence, and legacy. Hayley shares key strategies that helped her stay authentic, bold, and unapologetically herself, allowing her to grow a thriving personal brand that opens doors and creates opportunities. You’ll leave empowered to elevate your own brand and make your mark.
Official Feedback from In-Person & Virtual Events
Feedback from In-Person Events:
"Hayley is one of the most inspiring young people I’ve heard. Her story of how she overcame mental health challenges is something that all leaders should hear. What a powerful story." - Leena, CEO, Chanel
"Hayley was the opening keynote for our Middle East School Leaders conference in Dubai and she wasn’t just our highlight, it was memorable. Hayley possesses an exceptional talent for demystifying complex through authenticity and sincerity! She asserts everyone’s greatness and truly stands as a beacon of light and inspiration." - Leisa, Editorial Director, Teach Middle East
"Hayley has contributed so much to the brand board. She has helped develop programs for our school outreaches and reverse mentoring, as well as helped train our general managers in storytelling." - Thomas, CEO, Wagamama
"That was probably one of the best keynotes I’ve heard in a while" - Eric Thomas Associations
"An amazing young lady, truly an inspiring story. We just had to have her come and speak to my team in Redmond." - Gavriella, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft
"So inspirational! I am speechless and beyond impressed. Exceptional." - Ob, Managing Director, JP Morgan
"Her story on mental health is inspiring. An amazing voice on mental health for the next generation." - Rupert, Chief People Officer, Cabinet Office UK
"We loved having Hayley here in Dubai If you’re not visible, you’re invisible! Hayley inspired all of us to not be afraid to speak up and she really empowered the room! What an amazing session." - Anna, Group Director FMCG, Luxury, Retail & Commerce, META
"Hayley held an amazing public speaking workshop and we felt empowered and inspired to use our voices again! She reminded us to stay visible and gave us amazing tips on building our personal brand." - Christine, CEO, Dunkin Donuts Lebanon
"So inspirational! I am speechless and I am beyond impressed, exceptional" - OB, Managing Director, JP Morgan
"Her story on mental health is inspiring. An amazing voice on mental health for the next generation" - Rupert, Chief People Officer, Cabinet Office UK
"An amazing young lady, truly an inspiring story, we just had to have her come and speak to my team in Redmond" - Gavriella, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft
- 2024 - Named as one of the Top 25 Black Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2024 by the Black Business Show x HSBC
- 2021 - Brand Board Member for Wagamama
- 2019 - Listed 4th on the Top 10 Black Students in the United Kingdom list by Rare Recruitment
- 2018 - President of the Youth Advisory Board for Migrant Leaders
- 2018 - Ambassador for One Young World
- 2018 - Awarded The Best of Congo Award Best Author/Writer
- 2017 - Founder & CEO of the Building You Masterclass
- 2017 - Camp Counsellor for YMCA of Greater New York
- 2017 - Runner up for Queens Young Leader
- 2016 - Author of 'The ABC's To Student Success'
- 2016 - Named the Most Influential & Inspirational Black Entrepreneur in the UK for Under 21s
- 2015 - Awarded the Positive for Youth Inspire Award & the Jack Petchey Achievement Award
- 2012 - Youth Councillor & Young Mayor Candidate for London Borough of Newham
