Dr Yvonne Thompson

Dr Yvonne Thompson CBE is known for being an exceptional entrepreneur, business leader, campaigner and speaker who has paved the way for diversity. As a founder of Wintrade Global Women Intra and a founding member of the radio station Choice FM, now known as Capital XTRA, the UK's only Black-owned radio station, she covers a diverse range of sectors. After starting her own PR Company over three decades ago, she uses her range of transferable skills to help other organisations throughout all aspects of business. Yvonne has spoken at over 150 public and private sector events, including workshops, across the globe throughout her inspirational career, where she shares her passion for empowering underrepresented voices.

Yvonne’s career began in CBS Records, where she worked as a Press Officer in 1975, before creating the first black owned PR company, ASAP Communications, in 1983. Throughout her company, she ran the first in-depth research into the lifestyle of the black community across the UK whilst helping companies create positive publicity. She worked with international clients such as Lloyds TSB, Guinness and The Journal Newspaper. Her early work in music journalism, including serving as Music Editor of Root Magazine, allowed her to gain experience throughout the media to enhance her knowledge. With experience across various public sector boards, including Chairing the London Central Learning and Skills Council, DTI’s Ethnic Minority Business Forum, African Caribbean Business Network and more, she shares her insight to develop businesses.

Since 2022, Yvonne has served as the Deputy Lieutenant of Greater London for King Charles II, where she uses her dynamic leadership skills and personal experience. Celebrating the 22nd anniversary of the first black women in Business Awards in the UK, Yvonne founded and led the 3rd WinTrade Week Convention and Awards, themed “Womenomics”, where over 600 women were celebrated through a week of global business connections. Continuing to share her passion, Yvonne published her influential book, ‘7 Traits of Highly Successful Women on Boards,’ where she shares advice and characteristics to help other women succeed at high levels of business.

Yvonne is known for being an accomplished mentor, coach, advisor and speaker with her TEDx talk “If Time was Measured in Heartbeats”. She has earned many accolades in recognition of her career, receiving an honorary doctorate in Philosophy from the London Metropolitan University and the European Women of Achievement Award 2001. A declaration from the Mayor of Houston, Texas, named the 8th of January 2004 “Yvonne Thompason Day”. In 2003, she was honoured with a CBE in recognition of her services to Black and minority businesses. Yvonne is a world-renowned role model throughout diversity, whose extensive experience with real-world events allows her to connect with audiences to share the principles of equality and leadership.