Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones

Wilfred’s journey from inner-city Birmingham to television and farming offers a powerful story of ambition, persistence and challenging convention. Drawing on his own experiences, Wilfred encourages business audiences to think differently, take personal responsibility and pursue opportunities beyond the boundaries others might set for them.

Born in Jamaica and raised in Birmingham, Wilfred describes himself as “a poor boy, done good”. Without formal qualifications, he used determination and persistence to talk his way into television, where he was responsible for introducing chefs including Gordon Ramsay and James Martin to the small screen.

Wilfred later fulfilled his ambition to own a small farm in Devon, which inspired him to launch a range of sausages and sauces under The Black Farmer label. Recognising that many farmers had lost their connection with consumers, he built direct relationships with customers, encouraging them to lobby supermarkets to stock his products. His brand subsequently expanded into country clothing.

His product strapline, “Flavours without Frontiers”, reflects his approach to both life and business. Refusing to be confined by race, convention or tradition, Wilfred challenges established thinking and speaks forthrightly about rural affairs, opportunities for small producers and the importance of embracing different perspectives.

In his presentations, Wilfred explores entrepreneurship, resilience and the determination needed to overcome disadvantage. He challenges audiences to take ownership of their actions and ambitions, demonstrating how resourcefulness and a willingness to question familiar ways of working can create new opportunities.

His commitment to broadening horizons also led him to launch a scholarship giving young people from inner-city communities the opportunity to experience life in a rural environment.

To book Keynote Speaker Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, contact The Speakers Agency on +44(0)1332 810481 or email enquiries@thespeakersagency.com