Claire McDonough is a specialist SEND and neurodiversity consultant, trainee counsellor, founder of Carpe Diem Education Consultants UK and co-director of IGNITE Neurodiversity CIC. Claire McDonough is a specialist SEND and neurodiversity consultant, trainee counsellor, founder of Carpe Diem Education Consultants UK and co-director of IGNITE Neurodiversity CIC. < Back Claire McDonough Specialisms: Neurodivergence, particulalry ASC/ADHD; special educational needs; issues in education for neurodivergent students; late diagnosed female adhd (lived experience); parenting children with complex needs as well as navigating the send/education system for them! Claire McDonough is a specialist SEND and neurodiversity consultant, trainee counsellor, founder of Carpe Diem Education Consultants UK and co-director of IGNITE Neurodiversity CIC. Claire has extensive experience as a teacher, SENCO and strategic consultant across mainstream, specialist and alternative provision settings. She supports schools, local authorities, health teams and community organisations to develop inclusive, trauma informed, neurodiversity affirming practice. Claire’s work is uniquely shaped by her lived experience. She was diagnosed with ADHD and complex trauma in adulthood and is also a parent to three autistic children. This dual perspective allows her to understand both the systemic challenges and the lived realities of neurodivergent individuals and their families. Her consultancy focuses on autism, ADHD, executive function, sensory needs, emotional wellbeing and psychologically safe learning. Through IGNITE Neurodiversity CIC, Claire helps deliver emotional literacy programmes, parent support, therapeutic wellbeing projects and executive function coaching. Claire is known for her compassionate approach, clarity of communication and strong commitment to empowering children, young people and adults to thrive. Claire recently won the Sefton Parent Carer's Award in the Category of 'The Hillary Dunne SEND Superstar Award 2025' as nominated by parents of SEND students themselves. info@speakerscollective.org First name Last name Email Your Phone Number About Your Event or Project Speaker or Persons Requested Date picker Event Type Select Event Type Address Submit BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION

Cal Dobbs (he/they) is a renowned transgender endurance athlete, educator, coach, and public speaker from Los Angeles, CA.Cal Dobbs (he/they) is a renowned transgender endurance athlete, educator, coach, and public speaker from Los Angeles, CA. < Back Cal Dobbs Specialisms: LGBTQ, Transgender Endurance Athlete, Educator & Coach Cal Dobbs (he/they) is a renowned transgender endurance athlete, educator, coach, and public speaker from Los Angeles, CA. In July of 2023 he completed his 2,800 mile run across America to fight for the inclusion of transgender people in sports and access to gender affirming healthcare and became the first trans person to complete this endeavor. Along the way Cal raised nearly $100,000 for grassroots lgbtq groups supporting trans people most impacted by anti-trans legislation. Cal has been featured on several news outlets and publications for this achievement including CNN and Outside Magazine. He has given countless presentations and speeches at colleges, universities, symposiums, and community events. Cal was invited to the White House by President Biden during his run for the President's Pride Celebration. He was also invited to be a Keynote speaker at the Annual National Recreation and Parks Association conference in Dallas, TX. In partnership with the National Center for Transgender Equality, Cal started the Trot for Trans Lives Series that swept the nation. It is a growing series of 5k fun runs that focus on bringing resources and attention to grassroots community groups serving transgender people most impacted by anti trans legislation through community and motion. Cal and his team are currently producing a feature length documentary about the run and the advocacy Cal did along the way to be released in Summer 2024. In addition to being the first trans person to run across America, in 2022 Cal became the first known transgender person to complete the prestigious Triple Crown of hiking which includes nearly 8,000 miles of walking across America's three premier National Scenic Trails, all as a fundraiser for LGBTQ+ support groups. Cal has a BA in Sociology & Anthropology from Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania and a national secondary school teaching certification. Cal has worked as an educational researcher at both the USC Rossier Graduate School of Education and the UCLA Center for the Transformation of Schools. He taught high school history and coached running for three years before deciding to become a full time endurance athlete, LGBTQ+ advocate, and public speaker. info@speakerscollective.org First name Last name Email Your Phone Number About Your Event or Project Speaker or Persons Requested Date picker Event Type Select Event Type Address Submit BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION

Shaun is a creative who knows no boundaries, an influencer aiming to have the right influence on the world. Shaun is a creative who knows no boundaries, an influencer aiming to have the right influence on the world.  < Back Shaun Flores Specialisms: Mental Health, DEI, Neurodiversity & Masculinity Advocate Shaun Flores is a celebrated speaker, 4x TEDx Speaker, mental health advocate, an emerging author, and a driving force for positive change. He has earned global acclaim for his compelling journey of personal transformation, where he has harnessed his struggles with OCD and ADHD into a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eepC5vuiFy0 At the tender age of six, Shaun faced a life-altering moment when his father passed away on Christmas Day, leaving an indelible mark on his young soul. Then, in 2022, a pivotal year in his life, a mental breakdown became a catalyst for change. Wrestling with an undiagnosed illness, he found himself in the depths of despair, grappling with suicidal thoughts and overwhelming hopelessness. A profound realization struck him during this darkest hour: "I am going to change the world." From that moment on, his unwavering mission has remained unchanged: to leave the world in a better state than he found it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9Om5AAhbMI His journey has equipped him with invaluable insights into millennials' mental health challenges. This knowledge ignited a fierce determination to address this critical issue. Shaun has become a trusted advocate for diversity, inclusion, mental health, neurodiversity, and well-being. Shaun's extraordinary story has taken centre stage on prestigious platforms worldwide, including four TEDx Talks and appearances in educational institutions and corporate settings. Drawing from his background in modelling and influencing, he has fearlessly tackled topics such as eating disorders, addiction, the misconceptions surrounding OCD, and the crucial role of neuro-diversity in shaping our evolving world. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GWhcPIR-vXc On a mission to bridge the generational mental health gap, fostering understanding and support between leaders and the younger generations, particularly millennials and Gen-Z, Shaun has dedicated himself to creating a haven and providing mentorship to countless young individuals, especially those from diverse and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Audiences consistently describe Shaun's presentations as captivating, transformative, and life-changing. In the words of Carl Jung, "No tree, it is said, can grow to heaven unless its roots reach down to hell." In the case of Shaun Flores, his ability to evoke emotion and propose solutions leaves an indelible mark where audience members are inspired and empowered to embrace change. info@speakerscollective.org First name Last name Email Your Phone Number About Your Event or Project Speaker or Persons Requested Date picker Event Type Select Event Type Address Submit BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION

Joanna Oliver, also known as ColonCoach, is a keynote speaker and patient-advocate specialising in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), biologic and immunotherapy treatments, chronic illness, isolation, and the hidden psychological impact of long-term disease.Joanna Oliver, also known as ColonCoach, is a keynote speaker and patient-advocate specialising in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), biologic and immunotherapy treatments, chronic illness, isolation, and the hidden psychological impact of long-term disease. < Back Joanna Oliver Specialisms: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Biologic & Immunotherapy Treatments, Chronic Illness, Disability Advocacy, Psychological Impact of Long-Term Disease Joanna Oliver, also known as ColonCoach, is a keynote speaker and patient-advocate specialising in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), biologic and immunotherapy treatments, chronic illness, isolation, and the hidden psychological impact of long-term disease. With over 20 years of lived experience of severe IBD, Joanna speaks with rare authority and compassion about the realities patients are often too embarrassed or frightened to articulate. Her work helps individuals, healthcare professionals, and institutions create clearer, more honest conversations around symptoms, side-effects, mental health, and quality of life. Joanna is an NHS Peer Leader (Level 3) and has collaborated with the University of Bath, the NIHR, an American Crohn’s Committee, and clinicians across the colorectal and surgical fields. She is currently writing a book for publication in the United States. Her medical journey includes: 15 years of biologic therapies A temporary ileostomy A full panprocto-colectomy PTSD related to long-term hospitalisation Recurrence of Crohn’s disease post-surgery This journey profoundly shaped her life, including the inability to have children and the continued need for biologic medication. Despite this, Joanna’s work is defined by resilience, clarity, and determination to empower others. Joanna developed a practical communication framework known as “The Three C’s”, designed to help patients articulate symptoms quickly, clearly, and confidently to healthcare professionals — improving outcomes while reducing distress and misunderstanding. Her work also includes a confidential one-to-one peer support service, delivered via Zoom or email, tailored to individual needs. Her key speaking topics include: Biologic and immunotherapy use in IBD Reducing NHS waste caused by unused biologics through better patient education Depression, isolation, and agoraphobia linked to chronic illness Trauma and fear associated with long-term hospital stays Employment, HR, and social barriers faced by chronically ill patients Improving primary care communication and early-stage patient support Joanna speaks to universities, students, academies, charities, HR teams, and hospital trusts, delivering talks, workshops, and keynotes globally — in person or online via Zoom or Teams. She is fully legally covered, works within strict confidentiality boundaries, and approaches every engagement with integrity. While Joanna is not motivated by monetising her lived experience, she is deeply committed to raising awareness, improving pathways to care, and connecting people with trusted, lived-experience support. info@speakerscollective.org First name Last name Email Your Phone Number About Your Event or Project Speaker or Persons Requested Date picker Event Type Select Event Type Address Submit BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION

In 2019, filmmaker Jonathan Hirons suffered a brain bleed that caused Aphasia, a condition that severely affected his ability to read, write, and speak, halting his working life. In 2019, filmmaker Jonathan Hirons suffered a brain bleed that caused Aphasia, a condition that severely affected his ability to read, write, and speak, halting his working life. < Back Jonathan Hirons Specialties: Aphasia and Recovering from Major Life Changes In 2019, filmmaker Jonathan Hirons faced a life-altering challenge: a brain bleed that resulted in Aphasia. This condition dramatically impaired his ability to read, write, and speak, bringing his professional life to a standstill. Determined to rebuild, Jonathan embarked on an intensive journey of rehabilitation. His perseverance paid off with the release of a powerful documentary " On the Tip of My Tongue " that shines a light on the often unseen struggles of living with Aphasia and the lack of support beyond initial rehabilitation. The film follows the stories of three individuals, highlighting how strokes can impact anyone. In 2022, Jonathan successfully crowdfunded and launched his documentary. He is now leveraging this work to raise awareness across the UK, collaborating with organizations such as the NHS, speech therapists, and Carers UK. His mission is to enhance understanding and expertise in Aphasia among healthcare professionals, caregivers, and the general public. Additionally, he aims to support organizations that are pioneering new technologies, including apps and AI, to aid those with Aphasia. Jonathan’s documentary aims to address the widespread ignorance about Aphasia, the scarcity of post-rehabilitation support, and the vital efforts of charities and caregivers. He envisions creating a comprehensive resource that can be utilized not only across the UK but also globally, benefiting those affected by Aphasia. Furthermore, Jonathan hosts a podcast titled "On the Tip of My Tongue," where he delves into the various aspects of living with Aphasia, sharing personal insights and experiences to foster greater understanding and empathy. info@speakerscollective.org First name Last name Email Your Phone Number About Your Event or Project Speaker or Persons Requested Date picker Event Type Select Event Type Address Submit BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION

International best-selling writer and speaker Sharon is a vocal changemaker.International best-selling writer and speaker Sharon is a vocal changemaker. < Back Sharon Critchlow Specialisms: Emotional Intelligence, Workplace wellness, Leadership, personal motivation As an international best-selling writer and speaker Sharon is a vocal changemaker. She brings passion to the subjects of the future of work, diversity and inclusion, leadership, emotional intelligence and personal motivation. Writer of numerous articles published across the globe on wellbeing topics, she is the co-author of Amazon best-selling book: Love Your Life! 100 Tips For More Peace And Happiness. Sharon is a qualified Accountant and has won several International awards for her contribution to the accountancy profession. She is a non-executive director at Clarion Housing Association with over 25 years of experience in senior leadership roles and growing successful businesses. Sharon is also a Director at Discover Your Bounce, which is a leadership development and workplace wellness provider and is passionate about people becoming the best that they can be and allowing their true talents to shine. info@speakerscollective.org First name Last name Email Your Phone Number About Your Event or Project Speaker or Persons Requested Date picker Event Type Select Event Type Address Submit BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION

Zoë Austin is a freelance neurodivergent and trauma-informed speaker, trainer, educator and consultant living in Cambridgeshire and working across the UK. Zoë Austin is a freelance neurodivergent and trauma-informed speaker, trainer, educator and consultant living in Cambridgeshire and working across the UK. < Back Zoe Austin Specialisms: Neurodivergence, autism, ADHD, education, music education, schema theory, child development Zoë Austin is a freelance neurodivergent and trauma-informed speaker, trainer, educator and consultant living in Cambridgeshire and working across the UK. She divides her time between consulting on how mainstream schools (and other institutions) can better meet the needs of neurodivergent members, providing group and individual music sessions, 1:1 tutoring for autistic/ADHD school-age children, mentoring autsitic/ADHD university students, and writing/presenting on the subjects of neurodiversity, child development, and music-making. Part of the Pen Green Schema Group, she contributed to the book Schemas in the Early Years (Routledge, 2022), and presented on ‘Schema theory and children’s emerging musicality’ at EECERA, 2023. Zoë uses her past experiences as a (Pen Green-trained) classroom teacher, her MA in Music Therapy and past experience of working in children’s social services to inform her position as a holistic practitioner. info@speakerscollective.org First name Last name Email Your Phone Number About Your Event or Project Speaker or Persons Requested Date picker Event Type Select Event Type Address Submit BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION

Emma is Deputy Director Mental Nursing NHSE with over 20 years’ experience across a wide range of health, emergency care and criminal justice settings. Emma is Deputy Director Mental Nursing NHSE with over 20 years’ experience across a wide range of health, emergency care and criminal justice settings. < Back Emma Wadey Specialisms: Mental Health Nursing Emma is Deputy Director Mental Nursing NHSE with over 20 years’ experience across a wide range of health, emergency care and criminal justice settings. Maintaining clinical practice throughout her career has always been a priority and Emma continues to work as a consultant nurse in a local psychiatric liaison service. With lived experience of the impact of suicide she has focused her clinical work on the treatment of complex trauma, self-harm and suicidality. An early adopter of recovery-based approaches to suicidal behaviours, Emma co-produced teaching packages on how to support and treat those with suicidality and helped develop the first ever suicide prevention app, StayAlive. More recently she contributed to the development of the competency framework for self-harm and suicide as part of the expert advisory group, is a national clinical adviser for the Mental Health Service Improvement Programme and clinical lead for the National Nurse Retention Programme. In the throes of a mid-life crisis Emma took up marathon running and is pursing completion of all six of the Abbots World Major Marathon series. With four completed already she is taking 2020 as a year off to build some speed! info@speakerscollective.org First name Last name Email Your Phone Number About Your Event or Project Speaker or Persons Requested Date picker Event Type Select Event Type Address Submit BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION

John Junior is a British mental health activist and Psychology student dedicated to challenging stigma and transforming how society responds to people experiencing mental health struggles.John Junior is a British mental health activist and Psychology student dedicated to challenging stigma and transforming how society responds to people experiencing mental health struggles. < Back John Junior Specialisms: Suicide, mental health, intersex, grief, addiction, cptsd, ocd, anxiety John Junior is a British mental health activist and Psychology student dedicated to challenging stigma and transforming how society responds to people experiencing mental health struggles. He is an activist, not an influencer, he doesn’t chase fame or money. He chases one thing saving lives. Sharing his lived experience, he speaks openly about suicide, mental health, intersex, grief, addiction, identity, and recovery, offering hope to those facing their darkest moments. Born intersex, John faced identity struggles alongside suicidal thoughts and self-harm from a young age. After the sudden death of his father, he attempted suicide through an overdose and was resuscitated. In that moment, he said to the resus nurse, he didn’t want to die, he wanted the pain to stop. That realisation became a turning point, inspiring him to transform his pain into purpose and dedicate his life to helping others so no one feels alone. Over time, John discovered that supporting others also helped him heal. Guiding people through their struggles allowed his nervous system to recover after therapies that hadn’t worked. In 2019, he founded John and Charlie’s Journey , a mental health movement centred around Charlie, a teddy duck who comforted him in his darkest hours. Together, they have met people from all walks of life, including individuals actively planning to end their lives. Thousands have been supported in person, with millions more reached through television and social media. What began as a coping mechanism became a national campaign encouraging open conversations, reducing judgment, challenging stigma, and normalising adults carrying teddys or plushies. John’s work has reached millions worldwide. He has appeared on Sky News , co-created and shared his suicide story on the BAFTA-nominated series Hollyoaks IRL , and campaigned to get 380,000 people off NHS waiting lists and into complex therapy. His on-going campaign to make all UK Police mental health first aid trained. A practising Buddhist, John incorporates mindfulness, meditation, and reflection into both his personal life and to others. He brings a unique perspective on identity, resilience, and overcoming obstacles, shaped by his experiences of loss, diagnosis, and activism. Every morning, John reminds himself, and the people he meets: "You are loved. You are wanted. You are needed. The mood is temporary." Through John and Charlie’s Journey , he continues to challenge stigma, inspire hope, and save lives. The root cause of our suffering is when we think, when we stop thinking, that is when happiness starts to bloom, we find peace. info@speakerscollective.org First name Last name Email Your Phone Number About Your Event or Project Speaker or Persons Requested Date picker Event Type Select Event Type Address Submit BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION

Lorna Collins, FHEA, FRSPH is an artist, filmmaker, writer, journalist and arts educator. Lorna Collins, FHEA, FRSPH is an artist, filmmaker, writer, journalist and arts educator. < Back Lorna Collins Specialisms: Brain injury, trauma, eating disorders, psychosis, self-harm, creativity, art, writing Lorna Collins, FHEA, FRSPH is an artist, filmmaker, writer, journalist and arts educator. Amongst other books, Lorna is the author of 'Making Sense: Art Practice and Transformative Therapeutics' (Bloomsbury) and a series of children’s fiction, beginning with 'Squawk: A Book of Bird Adventures' (Pegasus). She has written articles about mental health, the NHS, creativity and art in 'The Independent, 'The Guardian' and 'The British Medical Journal. When she was 18, Lorna had a severe traumatic brain injury and fell into a coma. She awoke with total amnesia and did not know who she was. This led Lorna to develop a number of psychiatric illnesses; she was locked away for nearly 2 decades. During this time, Lorna would paint to express the inexpressible, her sheer misery. Eventually, the doctors would look at her paintings to diagnose, medicate and treat her illnesses. Art provided Lorna with medicine. Lorna’s creativity helped her recover and continues to nourish her life. Lorna’s TEDx Talk, discussing all of the above, is called “How Creativity Revived Me". Latest film: "Writing the World Backwards" - (Lorna Collins & directed by Angela Robson) acclaimed in festivals across the globe, and is now released in the public domain. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qcyn2HTXzns TEDx talk: "How Creativity Revived Me" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smKOkjUfzHw info@speakerscollective.org First name Last name Email Your Phone Number About Your Event or Project Speaker or Persons Requested Date picker Event Type Select Event Type Address Submit BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION

Sammi Ford is a multi award-winning and published writer, poet, photographer and keynote speaker who has appeared at venues such as the Royal Festival Hall, the National Exhibition Centre and the London Etcetera Theatre and for organisations such as the National Association of Writers in Education and the National Neurodiversity Shows. Sammi Ford is a multi award-winning and published writer, poet, photographer and keynote speaker who has appeared at venues such as the Royal Festival Hall, the National Exhibition Centre and the London Etcetera Theatre and for organisations such as the National Association of Writers in Education and the National Neurodiversity Shows. < Back Sammi Ford Specialisms: Mental Health, Neurodiversity, Late Diagnosis, Autism, ADHD, Business, Leadership, Female Entrepreneurship, Creativity, Creative Writing, Wellbeing, Masking, Eating Disorders, Addiction Sammi Ford is a multi award-winning and published writer, poet, photographer and keynote speaker who has appeared at venues such as the Royal Festival Hall, the National Exhibition Centre and the London Etcetera Theatre and for organisations such as the National Association of Writers in Education and the National Neurodiversity Shows. She has appeared on national television, radio, and podcasts, presented masterclasses and conducted workshops on mental health and creative writing, online and in person, at national events and festivals. Sammi is a qualified linguist, entrepreneur and veteran Royal Air Force officer with over 30 years of experience within industry as a business founder and managing director. Her responsibilities have included the global procurement and logistics of all UK rotary spares during international conflict, and roles such as the military escort to the Austrian Chief of Defence Staff. She is uniquely placed to share her expertise in international commerce and business management alongside personal stories of her battles to overcome adversity and fight for equality. Diagnosed late in life with autism and ADHD, following a mental health crisis during perimenopause, Sammi champions the strengths of neurodivergence and is passionate in helping others to overcome their own challenges. She is a personable communicator who has worked within the corporate sector, in schools and for voluntary organisations and charities, touching all ages and walks of life. Her business acumen, creative flair and first-hand experiences make for a unique blend of knowledge which she crafts together into a compelling and heartfelt delivery which inspires and connects with her audiences. Sammi’s prominent voice is highly sought after for her dynamic and inspiring talks, performances and training classes in creative self-expression. info@speakerscollective.org First name Last name Email Your Phone Number About Your Event or Project Speaker or Persons Requested Date picker Event Type Select Event Type Address Submit BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION

Amelie Abass is a visionary leader and a transformative voice for youth engagement in politics.Amelie Abass is a visionary leader and a transformative voice for youth engagement in politics. < Back Amelie Abass Specialisms: Youth engagement in politics, youth homelessness, racial disparities in maternity care (lived experience) Amelie Abass is a visionary leader and a transformative voice for youth engagement in politics. She is widely recognised for her exceptional ability to connect with audiences through compelling public speaking, grounded in lived experience and social action. As an award-winning campaigner, Amelie won ‘Campaigner of the Year’ at the 2025 Inspirational Youth Awards. She was a top 10 national finalist for the 2026 TargetJobs Black Heritage Undergraduate of the Year Awards, sponsored by Sky. In 2025, she was selected for the Young Greens 30 Under 30 programme, demonstrating her dedication to promoting youth involvement in national politics. Currently, as the founder and professional speaker at Amelie Abass Public Speaking Ltd, Amelie hosts innovative interviews and podcasts that have amassed over 50,000 views across various platforms. She is deeply committed to addressing youth homelessness and racial disparities in maternity care, central themes in her personal story that resonate authentically and powerfully during her engaging talks and keynotes. Her dynamic, high-energy presentations and interviews have captivated diverse audiences at The University of Surrey and Politics UK. She consistently leaves attendees and viewers energised, inspired, and equipped with the tools to enact immediate, meaningful change in their own communities. Amelie offers workshops for young people aged 11-18, built around getting involved in politics and reclaiming their power; talks on youth engagement in politics for all ages; live event presenting; podcasting; and keynotes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8vDQp0moWE info@speakerscollective.org First name Last name Email Your Phone Number About Your Event or Project Speaker or Persons Requested Date picker Event Type Select Event Type Address Submit BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION