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Dr. Tunde Okewale OBE
Dr. Tunde Okewale OBE is a distinguished barrister, social entrepreneur, and advocate for justice and social mobility. He founded Urban Lawyers to support marginalised communities in accessing legal careers, has significantly influenced the justice system, and holds leadership roles in both law and sports. His work empowers underrepresented groups, and he is highly respected for his contributions to law and society.
About Dr. Tunde Okewale OBE
Dr. Tunde Okewale OBE is renowned for his advocacy and unwavering commitment to justice. Born and raised on a Hackney council estate, Dr. Okewale defied the odds to achieve distinction at the prestigious Doughty Street Chambers, specialising in serious and financial crimes. His legal acumen has significantly influenced reforms within the justice system, and he is celebrated for his role in overturning the wrongful murder conviction of Dwaine George.
In 2010, Dr. Okewale founded Urban Lawyers, a charity dedicated to enhancing legal access and fostering career opportunities for marginalised communities. Through Urban Lawyers, over 32,000 students have been guided towards legal careers, and more than 50,000 individuals have been educated on their legal rights, helping to create informed and empowered communities.
Dr. Okewale’s remarkable contributions to law and society have earned him numerous accolades. He was honoured as the youngest ever Master of the Bench at Inner Temple in its 650-year history. Forbes listed him as one of the twenty-five Leading Black British Business People to Follow, and The Sunday Times featured him in its 2017 ‘Alternative Rich List’ for enriching the lives of others. In 2018, GQ included him in their book “How to Win at Life,” recognising him as one of the most influential people under 38.5. His services to social mobility and criminal justice were further recognised with an MBE in 2016 and an OBE in 2024.
In a resounding tribute to his pioneering efforts in criminal justice and social mobility, Dr. Okewale was bestowed with the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the King’s New Year Honours List for 2024. His landmark election as the youngest Governing Bencher of the Honourable Society of the Inner Temple in 2019 set a new precedent, underscoring his exceptional commitment to legal excellence and justice.
Dr. Okewale has recently taken on the significant role of Chair of the Sports England Talent and Inclusion Group, a position of immense importance in the landscape of British sports. This appointment recognises his unparalleled success in improving social mobility in the legal and business sectors. As Chair, Dr. Okewale leads efforts to widen participation in sports and create pathways for individuals from underrepresented and disadvantaged communities. His leadership in this role is crucial in ensuring that the opportunities and benefits of sports are accessible to all, regardless of their background, further reinforcing the vital intersection between sports, social justice, and community development.
Renowned for his expertise in appellate law and complex financial crimes, Dr. Okewale’s career is marked by significant legal victories, including the successful appeal that overturned Dwaine George’s wrongful conviction. His work at Urban Lawyers has been pivotal in inspiring the next generation of legal professionals, with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
Dr. Okewale continues to inspire as a speaker and mentor, advocating for justice and equality across various platforms, ensuring that the law—and now sports—serve all people equitably. He is currently in high demand as a speaker, regularly requested to address audiences both nationally and internationally, where his insights on justice, leadership, and social change leave a lasting impact.
Most recently, Dr. Okewale has recently been appointed as Chair of the Sport England Talent Inclusion Advisory Group, where he leads efforts to widen participation in sports and create pathways for individuals from underrepresented communities. His leadership in this role is crucial in ensuring that the opportunities and benefits of sports are accessible to all, further reinforcing the intersection between sports, social justice, and community development.
Dr. Tunde Okewale’s journey is a powerful testament to the enduring impact of legal advocacy, social entrepreneurship, and a relentless pursuit of justice and equity in all areas of society.
To book Keynote Speaker Dr. Okewale, contact The Speakers Agency on +44(0)1332 810481 or email enquiries@thespeakersagency.com
Breaking Barriers: Advancing Social Mobility Through Law and Education
In this keynote, Dr Okewale shares his journey from growing up on a Hackney council estate to becoming a leading barrister and the founder of Urban Lawyers. He discusses the systemic barriers that prevent marginalised communities from accessing opportunities in law and education and how we can overcome these challenges. He’ll provide practical strategies for institutions to create more inclusive environments and foster mentorship networks that empower underrepresented groups.
Audience Takeaways:
– Practical steps for enhancing diversity and inclusion within legal and educational institutions.
– Inspirational insights into overcoming personal and systemic challenges.
– Strategies for fostering mentorship and support networks for disadvantaged communities.
Championing Diversity in Leadership: Lessons from Law, Business, and Beyond
In this keynote, Dr Okewale discusses the importance of diversity in leadership across various sectors, including law, business, and sports. Drawing on his experiences as a barrister, social entrepreneur, and Chair of the Sports England Talent and Inclusion Group, he provides insights into how organisations can cultivate diverse leadership teams that drive innovation and inclusivity.
Audience Takeaways:
– Understanding the business and societal benefits of diverse leadership.
– Techniques for identifying and nurturing leadership talent from underrepresented groups.
– Insights into the intersection of diversity, equity, and organisational success.
Law as a Tool for Social Change: The Power of Advocacy and Reform
This keynote explores how the law can be harnessed as a tool for social change. Dr Okewale shareshis experiences in overturning wrongful convictions and influencing legal reforms that address injustices within the criminal justice system. He’ll discuss the role of advocacy in shaping fairer societies and provide actionable strategies for using legal frameworks to drive positive change.
Audience Takeaways:
– Insights into the process of legal advocacy and its impact on social justice.
– Examples of successful legal reforms and their societal implications.
– Strategies for using the law to address and rectify injustices.
Widening Participation in Sports: Creating Pathways for All
As the Chair of the Sports England Talent and Inclusion Group, Dr Okewale explores the importance of widening participation in sports, particularly for individuals from underrepresented and disadvantaged communities. This keynote addresses the challenges and opportunities in making sports more inclusive and provides a roadmap for creating equitable pathways into sports for all, regardless of background.
Audience Takeaways:
– Understanding the barriers to participation in sports for disadvantaged groups.
– Strategies for creating inclusive pathways and opportunities within sports.
– Insights into the broader social impact of increasing diversity in sports.
Resilience and Leadership: Lessons from a Journey to Success
This keynote is an inspirational recount of Dr. Okewales personal and professional journey from humble beginnings to becoming a leading barrister and social entrepreneur. He share’s the challenges he faced and the resilience required to overcome them, offering valuable lessons in leadership, perseverance, and success.
Audience Takeaways:
– Inspirational stories of overcoming adversity.
– Practical advice on cultivating resilience and leadership skills.
– Strategies for navigating challenges and turning them into opportunities for growth.
How to Argue Like a Lawyer: Mastering Persuasion and Influence
Based on his contribution to GQ’s publication “How to Win at Life,” this keynote demystifies the techniques lawyers use to craft compelling arguments, persuade audiences, and influence decisions. Dr Okewale breaks down the essential components of effective communication, logical reasoning, and emotional intelligence, equipping audiences with the tools to argue convincingly in any setting—whether in the boardroom, courtroom, or everyday life.
Audience Takeaways:
– Techniques for structuring arguments that are clear, logical, and persuasive.
– Insights into the psychology of persuasion and how to appeal to different audiences.
– Practical tips for maintaining composure and confidence during debates and negotiations.
