Empowering the Next Generation: LGBTQ Role Models in Public Speaking

We all know how powerful it is to see someone who reminds us of ourselves, whether it’s on television, in books, or in mainstream media; visibility and representation are crucial. For young people who identify as LGBTQ, seeing other LGBTQ individuals who have achieved amazing things is one of the most powerful role models.

We are proud to feature so many incredible LGBTQ individuals on our speaking roster who empower the next generation through their public speaking, advocacy, and mentorship. They are the people who are helping to shape a more inclusive future, encouraging confidence, resilience, and pride in the next generation.

Seeing successful professionals, athletes, and activists who are openly LGBTQ can have a profound impact on young people. It provides validation, it instils confidence in them to dream big, and demonstrates that they, too, can thrive in any field.

Our LGBTQ speakers bring their personal stories of overcoming adversity, breaking barriers, and challenging stereotypes. Their presence at corporate events, educational institutions, and conferences is a powerful force for change.

Here are some of the exceptional LGBTQ individuals at The Speakers Agency who are making a difference:

Jaxon Feeley

Jaxon Feeley is a powerful voice for the transgender community. A former prison officer, he shares his journey of transitioning and overcoming societal barriers, offering an honest and moving perspective on resilience and identity.

Jaxon has worked closely with Brianna Ghey’s mother, campaigning for justice and raising awareness of trans rights following Brianna’s tragic, transphobic murder. His activism is shaping conversations around trans equality and youth protection.

His key speaking topics include Trans visibility, overcoming adversity, supporting LGBTQ youth, and mental resilience.

Heather Fisher

A former England Rugby Sevens star and Olympian, Heather Fisher is known for her fearless approach to sport and life. She challenges stereotypes with her belief in being unapologetically herself.

Heather’s philosophy is anti-labels – she prefers to be known as ‘Just Fish.’ She encourages young people to embrace their individuality and reject societal constraints.

Her key speaking topics include Breaking barriers in sport, identity beyond labels, resilience and self-confidence.

Gareth Thomas

A former Wales rugby captain, Gareth Thomas made history when he came out as gay in 2009 – a groundbreaking moment in professional sports. He has since become a champion for LGBTQ rights, particularly within the sporting world.

Gareth has been an advocate for tackling homophobia in sports and has also spoken publicly about living with HIV, challenging stigma and misinformation.

His key speaking topics include LGBTQ inclusion in sports, overcoming fear, mental health and resilience.

Nicola Adams

Nicola Adams is an Olympic gold medal-winning boxer and one of the most celebrated LGBTQ athletes in the UK. She made history in professional boxing while proudly representing the LGBTQ community.

Nicola is passionate about inspiring the next generation, particularly LGBTQ youth and young women in sports. She has also spoken about starting a family with her partner, showing that LGBTQ athletes can thrive both personally and professionally.

Her key speaking topics include breaking boundaries in sport, inspiring young athletes, LGBTQ representation in mainstream media.

Zoe Lyons

Comedian and TV personality Zoe Lyons has built a career on her quick wit and charm, making her one of the most sought-after LGBTQ speakers for corporate and public events.

Zoe blends her humour with powerful insights into LGBTQ representation and inclusivity.

Her key speaking topics include LGBTQ rights through comedy, inclusivity in the workplace, resilience in the entertainment industry.

Dame Inga Beale

Dame Inga Beale made history as the first female CEO of Lloyd’s of London, the global insurance marketplace. She is openly bisexual and has been a trailblazer in promoting diversity and inclusion within the corporate world. ​ 

During her tenure at Lloyd’s, Inga championed LGBTQ inclusion, supporting initiatives like Pride@Lloyds, an internal LGBTQ employee resource group. She has been recognised for her efforts in modernising the industry’s culture and fostering an inclusive environment. 

Her key speaking topics include: Leadership in traditional industries, driving cultural change, LGBTQ inclusion in the workplace, and embracing authenticity in leadership.​

Paul Sinha

Paul Sinha is a recognisable face, known for his role as “The Sinnerman” on ITV’s The Chase. Beyond his television persona, Paul is a qualified doctor and an accomplished stand-up comedian. ​

Paul is openly gay and has been candid about his personal journey, including his diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease. His openness brings visibility to LGBTQ individuals in the entertainment and medical fields, as well as those living with chronic illnesses. ​

His key speaking topics include balancing multiple careers, living authentically, resilience in the face of health challenges, and LGBTQ representation in media.​

Raga D’Silva

Raga D’Silva is an esteemed author, TEDx speaker, and entrepreneur. Born and raised in India, she made headlines when she came out as a lesbian at the age of 50 through her debut book, Untold Lies.

Raga has been a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ community, particularly focusing on South Asian LGBTQ individuals. She uses her platform to create positive LGBTQ content and advocate for inclusivity across cultures. ​

Her key speaking topics include coming out later in life, cultural intersections of LGBTQ identity, storytelling for social change, and empowering LGBTQ youth in diverse communities.

Inspirational LGBTQ speakers do more than deliver keynotes – they act as mentors, activists, and catalysts for change, particularly for audiences of the next generation. Their impact is achieved through:

• Personal storytelling: Sharing real-life challenges and triumphs gives young people the courage to be themselves.
• Advocacy: LGBTQ speakers help push for equality in education, sports, media, and workplaces.
• Mentorship: Many offer direct support, guidance, and encouragement to LGBTQ youth.

At The Speakers Agency, we have been connecting event organisers, educators, and corporate diversity leads with LGBTQ role models who inspire and educate for over twenty years.

Explore our roster of LGBTQ speakers and book an inspiring role model for your next event today!