Top Black History Month Speakers

Steven Bartlett is an entrepreneur, speaker, investor, author, and host of Europe’s no.1 podcast, The Diary of a CEO, which uncovers the untold stories of the world’s most influential figures.

As the youngest Dragon on BBC’s Dragons’ Den, Steven is passionate about inspiring the next generation of BAME entrepreneurs. After being named “British Black Entrepreneur of the Year,” much of his work has focused on supporting disadvantaged schools and communities.

Recognized on the Powerlist of the UK’s most influential Black Britons, his audience spans aspiring entrepreneurs, creators, and business leaders.

Hashi Mohamed is one of the UK’s top barristers in Planning & Environmental law.

Born in Kenya to Somali parents, Hashi came to the UK as an unaccompanied child refugee, grew up on state benefits, and attended some of the country’s worst schools. Now a successful lawyer and author, his journey reflects resilience and discipline.

Hashi believes diversity and inclusion initiatives often miss the mark, calling out the ‘contrived numbers game’ behind them, championing ways in which REAL change can occur. He also explores unrealistic approaches to social justice and equity, and how the new UK government might affect social mobility and child poverty.

A BBC Radio 4 presenter, Hashi covers topics like planning, politics, housing, and social issues. He regularly contributes to outlets like The Times, The Guardian, and Prospect Magazine.

Shola Kaye helps global organizations build a People-First Culture, preparing for the future of work through empathy, effective communication, and inclusive leadership.

Drawing on her experience as a Black female introvert in global corporations, she understands the challenges of fostering empathy and belonging in diverse, often remote teams.

Her work helps businesses boost innovation, enhance belonging, and create productive, engaging environments.

Carl Lewis, a nine-time Olympic gold medalist across four Games, earned global fame and the title “Athlete of the Century” for his legendary track and field performances, cementing his place as one of the greatest athletes in history.

As an activist for family, youth, education, wellness, and fitness, Carl uses his global fame to raise awareness and drive change on these critical issues worldwide.

The sister of former President Barack Obama, Dr. Auma Obama, is dedicated to amplifying the voices of disadvantaged individuals worldwide.

Dr. Obama is the founder and chair of the Auma Obama Foundation Sauti Kuu, which means “strong voices” in Kiswahili. The foundation aims to empower disadvantaged children and young people, helping them realize and strengthen their potential.

After working in England’s Children’s Services Department, she returned to Kenya, where she spent nearly five years with the international aid organization CARE. There, she coordinated the “Sport for Social Change” program, which focused on boosting the confidence of children and youth, particularly girls from underprivileged backgrounds.

In 2004, Michael Fuller made history as Britain’s first Black Chief Constable of Kent and received the Queen’s Police Medal for distinguished service.

Over his 26 years in the Metropolitan Police, he established the Racial and Violent Crime Task Force and created an action plan following the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry.

He also founded the Met Police Black Police Association to support Black and Asian officers facing discrimination. His recent memoir, Kill the Black One First: A Memoir of Hope and Justice, inspires his speaking engagements on crime, race, and policing issues.

Chris Gardner’s inspiring journey from homelessness to finance is a testament to resilience. After overcoming significant challenges to complete his brokerage training, he became a top earner at Bear Stearns & Co from 1983 to 1987, then founded his own firm, Gardner Rich LLC.

His remarkable life story became a bestseller with the publication of The Pursuit of Happyness in May 2006, spending over twenty weeks on the New York Times bestseller list and translated into more than forty languages.

In spring 2010, he was named AARP’s Ambassador of Pursuit and Happyness, inspiring a 50+ audience to embrace new challenges and create meaningful legacies through his powerful public speaking.

Idalin McKenzie is a highly regarded finance and transformation executive known for her strategic insight, innovative thinking, and expertise in risk management.

With over two decades of leadership experience across various sectors—including professional services, energy, and real estate—she has made a significant impact in the public, private, and social realms.

In 2023, Idalin was recognized as one of Canada’s WXN Top 100 Most Powerful Women under the theme “Like a Legend.” The previous year, she was named one of the World’s Top 100 “best and brightest” executive MBAs by Poets & Quants, nominated by the Rotman School of Management.

Driven by a passion for excellence, Idalin empowers individuals and organizations while shaping the future of business and leadership.