Vivian Okeze-Tirado

Vivian Okeze-Tirado is a nationally beloved speaker who isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo. An award-winning Social Work Leader, Social Justice Advocate, Practise Educator, and Keynote Speaker, she has become the face of progress within the world of social care. Whether she’s empowering social workers through tales of her own experiences in the field, or emboldening all people-facing professionals to seize their potential no matter their race, gender, or sexuality, Vivian never fails to brighten the room. Alongside the release of her book “D.I.V.E.R.S.I.T.Y.: A Guide to Working with Diversity and Developing Cultural Sensitivity”, Vivian has developed a speaking career that certainly deserves its place in the spotlight.

Initially – before she founded the now highly-regarded VOT Training and Consultancy Services – Vivian spent just shy of a decade working with West Sussex Children Services. During this time, she wore her fair share of hats – between her progressive role as an Advanced Practitioner (Fostering) and her end goal position as the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Lead, she was consistently making changes for the better. This is why, in 2023, Vivian sought to pursue even greater ambitions; she knew she had the tools to kickstart change, and she was determined to put them to the test. As Social Worker of the Year 2021, Overall Social Worker of the Year, and Social Justice Advocate Gold Award recipient, Vivian had already become a big name in the social justice landscape. All she had to do was keep up the momentum.

But, as expected of a woman as outstanding as Vivian, she didn’t just stay at a steady pace; she accelerated her efforts and leapt headfirst into new and exciting opportunities. This would see her becoming the Founder and Head of the aforementioned VOT Training and Consultancy Services. Through VOT, Vivian delivers specialised training and consultancy services to various organisations, enabling the mass adoption of practises that will go on to reform their cultures for the better. For the most part, Vivian works alongside Social Work England, Community Care, British Association of Social Workers, Royal College of Paediatrics, Local Authorities, and Ofsted.

Over the past year alone, Vivian has proudly become a part of over 2,000 growth journeys within England’s social work and care scene. Through the strong bonds she’s forged with high-profile national organisations and local authorities, she’s been able to deliver passionate keynote speeches on platforms that are known for attracting attention. Having spoken at prestigious venues such as the House of Commons and Ofsted’s National Conference Hub, Vivian has provided life-changing inspiration to audiences all over the UK. To see how she can empower your event with her perspective on diversity, inclusion, and quality in the social care sector, hire Vivian today!