Mia is a childhood sexual abuse survivor and a lived-experience speaker with over 10 years of experience working alongside professionals, children, and young people. Mia is a childhood sexual abuse survivor and a lived-experience speaker with over 10 years of experience working alongside professionals, children, and young people. < Back Mia Lockley Specialisms: Childhood sexual abuse, Mental health, The CPS and how it is failing women and girl Mia is a childhood sexual abuse survivor and a lived-experience speaker with over 10 years of experience working alongside professionals, children, and young people. She lives with Bipolar Type II and complex PTSD, and uses her lived reality to bring honesty, depth, and challenge to conversations around mental health, trauma, and systems of care. Mia has delivered keynote speeches on mental health, including the realities of living with complex trauma and Bipolar Type II, mental health service failures, and the long-term impact of being unheard. She also speaks powerfully about the injustice system, sharing how she was failed twice by a system meant to provide justice, and offering critical insight into how children continue to be overlooked and let down. She has designed and delivered creative, unique workshops that support professionals working with children and young people, and has co-created resources with children to promote creativity and open conversations around feelings, worries, and emotional wellbeing. Mia has also developed resources specifically for young survivors of abuse. Mia talks about the childhood sexual abuse iceburg analogy that highlights how much of a child’s experience remains unseen, unrecognised, and unsupported, challenging adults and professionals to look beyond the surface. She is also the author of Tilly Tells, a children’s book developed with hopes of supporting children through understanding, expression, and safety. She hopes for Tilly tells to develop in 2026 and eventually become a free resource for children. In addition, Mia is a member of the Samaritans Lived Experience Advisory Board for self-harm and suicide prevention, contributing her insight to shape safer, more compassionate responses. Mia’s work centres on truth, creativity, and advocacy, amplifying the voices of children and survivors while challenging systems to do better and make the world a better place for survivors and those living with mental health challenges. info@speakerscollective.org BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION Submit Thanks for your speaker request and we will be in touch soon.

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 BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION Submit Thanks for your speaker request and we will be in touch soon.

Simon is a dedicated and experienced educational leader with a deep commitment to neurodiversity inclusion and improving the workplace experiences of all teachers. Simon is a dedicated and experienced educational leader with a deep commitment to neurodiversity inclusion and improving the workplace experiences of all teachers. < Back Simon Preston Specialisms: Neurodiversity inclusion Simon is a dedicated and experienced educational leader with a deep commitment to neurodiversity inclusion and improving the workplace experiences of all teachers. With a strong background in teaching, educational leadership, and management, Simon has spent over two decades honing his skills and knowledge in this field. His passion for neurodiversity inclusion led him to pursue an MBA in Educational Leadership and Management, which he completed with distinction in 2022. This experience not only enhanced his leadership skills but also deepened his understanding of effective management strategies within an educational context. Driven by his desire to make meaningful contributions to the field, Simon is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education at Oxford Brookes University. His research focuses on exploring how educational leadership, management, and administration impact the lived experiences of neurodivergent teachers when compared to their neurotypical peers. By shedding light on this topic, Simon hopes to drive positive change in educational settings and advocate for the needs and experiences of neurodivergent individuals. Simon is passionate about driving change and fostering inclusive environments where every student and teacher can thrive. info@speakerscollective.org BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION Submit Thanks for your speaker request and we will be in touch soon.

Laura Spence is a dedicated and dynamic midwife with over a decade of experience. Laura Spence is a dedicated and dynamic midwife with over a decade of experience. < Back Laura Spence Specialisms: Womens Health, Perinatal Mental Health, Neurodiversity, Midwifery, Birth Trauma, Sexual and Reproductive Health Laura Spence is a dedicated and dynamic midwife with over a decade of experience. Her outstanding commitment to women's health and neurodiversity advocacy has earned her a spot on the shortlist for the prestigious Nursing Times Midwife of the Year Award 2024. Her advocacy for neurodiversity in women's health is deeply personal, stemming from her own journey with autism and ADHD. Laura's diagnosis of ADHD later in life has driven her to leverage her unique perspective to champion the voices of neurodivergent women in the healthcare industry. With a rich background in women's health—spanning sexual and reproductive health, birth trauma, and parental mental health—Laura is on the brink of completing her master's degree in Perinatal Mental Health. Her groundbreaking thesis focuses on the postnatal experiences of women with ADHD, underscoring her commitment to enhancing healthcare for neurodivergent populations. As a proud podcaster, Laura hosts two influential podcasts: She Thrives ADHD and Another Podcast. In these podcasts, she empowers listeners by sharing lived experiences and insights that resonate with many. Her dedication to this medium is recognised in her nomination for the Women in Podcasting Global Award 2024. An accomplished author and illustrator, Laura's first children’s book, The Adventures of Granny Whistle Nose: Fly Little Bird, was published in June 2024 and aims to inspire young readers. Beyond her creative pursuits, she is the founder and managing director of NeuroNatal Academy C.I.C, an innovative educational platform designed to equip professionals with the knowledge they need at the intersection of perinatal health and neurodivergence. Laura is dedicated to building communities. She has founded local and online support groups for neurodivergent women, student midwives, and midwives. These initiatives have created close-knit communities that inspire and empower late-diagnosed individuals every day. She is actively co-creating resources to support neurodivergent healthcare professionals and students, with the goal of improving career retention during this critical time for the profession. Laura exemplifies an unwavering commitment to inclusivity and empowerment through her extensive contributions to perinatal mental health. Her allyship and advocacy for marginalised communities underscores her dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those she serves. Laura Spence goes above and beyond the role of a midwife. She tirelessly works to uplift and inspire others in the pursuit of enhanced healthcare and social justice for all women, serving as a beacon of hope and change. info@speakerscollective.org BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION Submit Thanks for your speaker request and we will be in touch soon.

I’m on a mission to get workplaces, communities and families to have confident mental health conversations and be inspired to take small but powerful steps for others and their own self-care.I’m on a mission to get workplaces, communities and families to have confident mental health conversations and be inspired to take small but powerful steps for others and their own self-care. < Back Emma Saccomani Specialisms: Workplace, general mental health, roles, responsibilities and boundaries. I’m on a mission to get workplaces, communities and families to have confident mental health conversations and be inspired to take small but powerful steps for others and their own self-care. As a Learning and Development professional with 25 years in the corporate world I deliver evidence-based/informed training (including Mental Health First Aid) and customise training options according to the roles, responsibilities and operational challenges. When it comes to leadership, cultures, teams and re-structures, I’ve experienced the best and the worst of the corporate world and want to inspire participants to influence in an empowering and positive away! My volunteering experience as facilitator and trustee with a local mental health charity and member of an NHS working group around suicide immersed me in the diversity and complexity of mental health challenges. But my overriding message is the power of connection, peer support and non-judgemental listening. Whether we’re supporting others or ourselves we can all contribute not ‘in spite of’, but because of our challenges! And what got me into this whole area? My own often terrifying rollercoaster journey supporting my teenage daughter through intense mental health challenges. I learned that we can’t ‘fix’ other people but along the recovery journey, we can provide practical support and hope in a way that respects their unique needs. Mental health might be a serious topic but we are allowed to have fun while we learn! info@speakerscollective.org BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION Submit Thanks for your speaker request and we will be in touch soon.

Jessica Kops (née Warne) is a maternal mental health specialist, clinical hypnotherapist & EMDR practitioner whose own recovery from severe postnatal depression inspired her to dedicate her career to supporting mothers and families. Jessica Kops (née Warne) is a maternal mental health specialist, clinical hypnotherapist & EMDR practitioner whose own recovery from severe postnatal depression inspired her to dedicate her career to supporting mothers and families. < Back Jessica Kops Specialisms: Maternal mental health, perinatal mental health, Matrescence, power of peer support, charity leadership & advocacy Jessica Kops (née Warne) is a maternal mental health specialist, clinical hypnotherapist & EMDR practitioner whose own recovery from severe postnatal depression inspired her to dedicate her career to supporting mothers and families. She is the founder of Cocoon Family Support, a London charity delivering peer support, counselling and co-produced services with the NHS and local authorities. In private practice, alongside her 1:1 therapeutic services she runs The Mother Method, enabling women to navigate the transition to motherhood with greater resilience and calm. Jessica is an experienced public speaker, having delivered keynote talks at corporate trainings, national perinatal mental health conferences, contributed to NHS service-development workshops and sitting on advisory boards for NCT, Best Beginnings and the Royal College of GP’s & Midwives. She has spoken on media platforms including ITV’s This Morning, BBC’s Victoria Derbyshire BBC Radio London. She has also had the honour of meeting the Duchess of Cambridge to discuss maternal mental health, further highlighting her role as an advocate in this field. Combining professional expertise with personal authenticity, Jessica is deeply passionate about raising awareness, reducing stigma and empowering professionals and parents. Her engaging talks weave together her lived experience, clinical knowledge and practical tools, leaving audiences informed, inspired and supported. info@speakerscollective.org BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION Submit Thanks for your speaker request and we will be in touch soon.

James is a dedicated mental health advocate and campaigner on a mission to improve mental health in the workplace and local communities. James is a dedicated mental health advocate and campaigner on a mission to improve mental health in the workplace and local communities. < Back James Knott Specialisms: Mental Health & Wellbeing, Positive Psychology, Mental Health Stigma & Advocacy, Eating Disorders (Anorexia Nervosa) Workplace Mental Health, Scam Awareness & Vulnerability James is a dedicated mental health advocate and campaigner on a mission to improve mental health in the workplace and local communities. Having battled Anorexia Nervosa in 2015, James is now committed to sharing his story to raise awareness and inspire others to seek help. His efforts to destigmatise mental health began in 2021 when he became a guest editor for MIND's monthly newsletter, offering a personal perspective on mental health, especially in the construction industry. James's journey into mental health advocacy began as he sought to transform his personal struggles into a platform for change. He bravely shared his experiences through various channels, including guest speaking at tier one contractor sites in London and participating in IOSH meetings. Collaborations with renowned organisations like Beat, Mental Health UK, Shout, Mental Health Foundation, SANE, Peppy, SHP Health and Safety News, and SIX MHS allowed him to spread awareness through articles, vlogs, and podcast talks. James's passion to break down stigmas surrounding mental health, especially in male-dominated industries like construction, continues to inspire many. Understanding the impact of sharing personal stories, James volunteered as a Lived Experience volunteer at the Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry, and Neuroscience (IOPPN) in London, providing insights to third-year medical students about the experiences of mental health sufferers. By offering a glimpse into the challenges faced by those with mental health issues, James aims to nurture empathy and compassion among future medical professionals. In 2023, James founded 'Manmade,' a support group dedicated to men's mental health. Recognising that societal pressures often hinder men from expressing vulnerability, 'Manmade' aims to create a safe and non-judgmental space where men can openly share their struggles. By fostering an environment of support and understanding, James hopes to empower men to break free from the shackles of silence and seek the help they deserve. In a twist of fate, James fell prey to a financial scam that left him feeling hopeless and ashamed. Rather than keeping this experience to himself, he chose transparency and openness. Turning his setback into an opportunity to help others, James now advocates for scam awareness, aiming to protect individuals' finances and emotional well-being. He believes that discussing one's struggles and seeking help are crucial steps toward preventing such scams and supporting others through challenging times. James's inspiring journey of mental health advocacy and scam awareness showcases the power of turning personal hardships into a force for positive change. Through his dedication to destigmatise mental health, empower men to open up, and protect others from scams, James serves as a beacon of hope and resilience for those facing similar challenges. As he continues to share his story and spread awareness, James reminds us that compassion, honesty, and seeking help are the keys to building a healthier and safer community for everyone. info@speakerscollective.org BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION Submit Thanks for your speaker request and we will be in touch soon.

Remie Colledge (she/her) is an Autistic Speaker, Trainer, and Writer who specialises in neurodivergent wellbeing,Remie Colledge (she/her) is an Autistic Speaker, Trainer, and Writer who specialises in neurodivergent wellbeing, < Back Remie Colledge Specialisms: Neurodiversity, Autism, Mental health, Anorexia, Neurodivergent Wellbeing, Inclusive Employment Remie Colledge (she/her) is an Autistic Speaker, Trainer, and Writer who specialises in neurodivergent wellbeing, navigating employment with a neurodivergent mind and inclusive practice. Drawing on her lived experience of recovery from anorexia and depression from an early age, Remie brings both insight and impact to every talk she delivers. The catalyst of change within her recovery came aged 26, when she discovered she was autistic. Remie’s journey since has shaped the reflective, compassionate and neuroaffirmative approach she’s known for today. Remie has professional experience as an Autistic Peer Support Worker and trainer for the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training in Learning Disability and Autism programme working in the NHS. She also has a varied background in the field of co-production. She has spoken in educational, healthcare (including NHS and private), corporate and conference settings, sharing thought-provoking content that plants seeds, sparks curiosity and inspires hope. Remie is a changemaker that facilitates safe, collaborative spaces, where audiences can reflect and explore new ideas and perspectives. Remie tailors every talk, workshop, and keynote to the people in the room, helping organisations create more neuro-inclusive spaces to live, learn, work and belong. She offers in-person and online talks, keynote speeches, workshops, and interviews. Remie lives in Warwickshire, England, and is happy to travel. info@speakerscollective.org BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION Submit Thanks for your speaker request and we will be in touch soon.

Kapil is the founder and coaching consultant at Nibana. He is a TEDx Speaker Talk: ‘Dare to be Sensitive’ and the co-author of: ‘Being FINE: the other F word’.Kapil is the founder and coaching consultant at Nibana. He is a TEDx Speaker Talk: ‘Dare to be Sensitive’ and the co-author of: ‘Being FINE: the other F word’. < Back Kapil Gupta Specialisms: Self Discovery, Modern Masculinity, Empathy, Emotional Intelligence, Conscious Relating, Conscious Sexuality, Masculine-Feminine Gender Dynamics Kapil is the founder and coaching consultant at Nibana. He is a TEDx Speaker Talk: ‘Dare to be Sensitive’ and the co-author of: ‘Being FINE: the other F word’. Kapil's background includes 15+ years of successful corporate career, an MBA from the University of Edinburgh, and a career in personal development space for 9+ years - helping executives, business leaders and entrepreneurs. He is a Fellow of The Royal Society of Arts. Kapil’s journey has been about striving for success, and achievement – ticking all the boxes – in the promise that there will be happiness and fulfilment at the end of it. He found that this wasn’t the case, and like many others, he now works with, he felt stuck and unfulfilled. After his 11-year relationship broke up and divorced, he felt like a failure in relationships. This leads him on a path of self-discovery, personal transformation, and cultivating emotional intelligence. He has since taught 1000+ people in workshops & coached more than 100 people 1-on-1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdTy9IZR87k info@speakerscollective.org BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION Submit Thanks for your speaker request and we will be in touch soon.

Discover key awareness days with Speakers Collective. Book impactful speakers and workshops to inspire action, raise awareness, and drive meaningful conversations on mental health, inclusion, and more. Awareness Days Stay updated on key awareness days by adding them to your Google Calendar or iCal Apple Calendar. To book a speaker use the form below or email us at info@SpeakersCollective.org. BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION Submit Thanks for getting in contact and we will be in touch soon. GET IN TOUCH

Explore meaningful conversations with the Speakers Collective. Listen to our podcast series, hear members featured on other platforms, and get to know the voices behind our work in In Conversation With... podcasts At Speakers Collective, we’re passionate about conversations that drive social change. Our Meaningful Conversations Podcasts series explores key issues like mental health, stigma and identity with leading voices and hosted by our members. In Conversation With… offers a closer look at the people who are members and our Speakers Collective Spotlight explores why our members decided to challenge stigma and discrimination. Also on this page is podcasts featuring Our Members, where they share lived experience and expert insights on a wide range of platforms. Meaningful Conversations Dive into powerful conversations that challenge stigma, share lived experience, and spark change. Hosted by our Speakers Collective members, the Meaningful Conversation Podcasts series amplifies unheard voices and explores the issues that matter from mental health to identity, social justice to community action. In Conversation with... In Conversation With... is our interview series that shines a light on members of Speakers Collective. Each episode features an honest and personal conversation with one of our members, offering insight into their work, their motivations, and the experiences that shape their voice and impact. Speakers Collective Spotlight Speakers Collective Spotlight Series shines a light on the incredible individuals within our community who use their voice, expertise and lived experience to challenge stigma, spark conversation, and drive meaningful change. Members Podcasts Our members are regularly invited to speak on a wide range of podcasts, bringing insight, honesty and inspiration to every conversation. Explore a growing collection of episodes featuring Speakers Collective voices, sharing lived experience, sparking new thinking, and encouraging open, inclusive dialogue.

My name is Niraj, and I work as an actuary in the city. I’ve always loved maths from a young age, and that translated seamlessly to an actuarial career. However, beyond the numbers, I’m deeply passionate about the power of lived experience.My name is Niraj, and I work as an actuary in the city. I’ve always loved maths from a young age, and that translated seamlessly to an actuarial career. However, beyond the numbers, I’m deeply passionate about the power of lived experience. < Back Niraj Shah Specialisms: Neurodiversity, Mental Health, Unmasking, career experiences My name is Niraj, and I work as an actuary in the city. I’ve always loved maths from a young age, and that translated seamlessly to an actuarial career. However, beyond the numbers, I’m deeply passionate about the power of lived experience. Since 2022, I have been actively involved in public speaking, sharing my lived experiences across topics including neurodiversity, the actuarial profession, and my personal unmasking journey. What began as a way to make sense of my own experiences has grown into one of the most meaningful and rewarding parts of my work, using my voice to create understanding, challenge assumptions, and help others feel seen. My public speaking engagements have taken me across the UK, including schools, universities, and conferences, where I aim to inspire others to embrace who they truly are. To date, I have delivered over 20 public speaking engagements, including individual talks, panel discussions, and interactive sessions. I have had the privilege of speaking at a wide range of events, from universities and schools to professional conferences and industry forums. These opportunities have allowed me to engage with diverse audiences, spark honest conversations, and contribute to more inclusive thinking around neurodiversity and lived experience in professional spaces. Public speaking has become my most impactful way of giving back. Whether I’m speaking to students at the start of their journeys or professionals navigating their own challenges, my goal is always the same, to offer authenticity, insight, and reassurance that there is more than one way to succeed. In 2023, I started on an unmasking journey to show my authentic self to the world. This journey has proven to be incredibly challenging, yet it has also been the most rewarding experience I have encountered to date. Through this process of self-discovery, I have gained valuable lessons that I hope to share with others. Today, I continue to speak openly about my lived experiences of neurodiversity, authenticity, and the actuarial profession, and inspire others in the process. info@speakerscollective.org BOOK A SPEAKER OR GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION Submit Thanks for your speaker request and we will be in touch soon.