Dr. Tunde Okewale OBE

Dr. Tunde Okewale OBE is a barrister and social entrepreneur known for his compelling presence and unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and inclusion. With a career that bridges the worlds of law, education, business, and sport, Tunde is an inspiring voice for change and transformation. A leading figure at Doughty Street Chambers, he is best known for his pivotal role in the overturning of the wrongful murder conviction of Dwaine George - a landmark achievement that underscores his legal brilliance and dedication to justice reform. As a speaker, Tunde energises audiences through powerful storytelling and practical insights drawn from lived experience and legal expertise.

Tunde’s journey began in Hackney, East London, where he was raised on a council estate. Navigating systemic barriers, he was called to the Bar by Inner Temple in 2007, becoming a beacon of resilience and determination for young people from marginalised communities. His passion for law and social mobility culminated in the founding of Urban Lawyers in 2010, a ground-breaking charity that educates and empowers young people through legal knowledge and access. Urban Lawyers has since guided over 32,000 students into legal careers and informed over 50,000 individuals about their legal rights, establishing Tunde as a transformative figure in widening participation within the legal profession.

Tunde’s career is marked by a string of prestigious accolades. In 2016, he was awarded an MBE for services to the community and disadvantaged young people, followed by an OBE in the 2024 King’s New Year Honours for his contributions to social mobility and criminal justice. He became the youngest ever Governing Bencher of Inner Temple in 2019 and was recognised by Forbes, GQ, The Sunday Times, and Business Leader Magazine for his influence and leadership. In addition, Tunde was appointed Chair of the Sport England Talent and Inclusion Advisory Group, where he now leads national efforts to promote equity in sport. His achievements also include awards from Chambers & Partners, Young Music Boss, and recognition in the HSBC and UK Black Business Week Top 25 Black Entrepreneurs to Watch.

As a keynote speaker, Tunde addresses themes that are critical to today’s social and professional landscapes: diversity in leadership, legal reform, access to education, resilience, digital advocacy, and inclusion in sport. His keynotes are not only intellectually engaging but deeply human, offering strategies rooted in experience and evidence. Audiences leave with a renewed sense of purpose and actionable insights for creating more inclusive and equitable systems. Whether speaking to corporate leaders, students, legal professionals, or policymakers, Dr. Tunde Okewale’s voice resonates with authenticity and urgency, making him one of the most compelling speakers of his generation.