Here is the second part of my series on the best people of colour or minority ethnic backgrounds that could be your next guest speaker. You can find the first part here. It’s estimated that there are approximently 227,000 people in Ireland that identify as being a person of colour or being from minority ethinic background. This represents around 5% of Ireland’s total population. However often people of colour or minrity ethinic backgrounds opinions are left out of events, workshops or corporate communications because of unconcious bias in this area.

Often events want to do the right thing but don’t know who would be the best person to speak at their event. So to that end, below is part one of two articles looking at 50 People of colour, or of minority ethnic backgrounds backgrounds in Ireland that could be your next guest speaker.

It is important to note that this is not a complete or definitive list. The information presented here is based on my own research and conversations within the community. There may be other deserving people whose details I was unable to find during this process.

Or here is a brief video featuring them all:

Through Diversein, she provides organisations with the tools, resources, and training needed to create inclusive cultures that embrace diversity in all its forms. Furkan’s innovative approach helps businesses to not only meet diversity goals but also to cultivate environments where all employees can thrive. Furkan has won Winner of the Inclusive Leadership Development Award by SHeros Global (2022), Diversity and Inclusion Role Model in Business at the International Diversity Leadership Awards (2018), Trailblazer Award at the Women in Tech Awards Dublin (2018), Speaker of the Year at the WomenTech Network Awards and was named among the Top 100 Women in Social Enterprise in Europe (2021) to name just a few of the awards

Furkan is the author of the book Inclusive Intelligence and is also an influential speaker and advocate for diversity in technology and leadership. She regularly shares his insights at conferences and events around the world, emphasising the critical importance of diversity for innovation and business success. Furkan’s efforts extend beyond advocacy, as she actively collaborates with industry leaders to implement meaningful changes that support inclusivity.

As a broadcaster, she has engaged audiences with her eloquence and storytelling prowess, using her voice to highlight the richness of various languages and cultures. Ola’s dedication to the Irish language advocacy extends beyond her broadcasting career, as she actively participates in public speaking engagements and initiatives aimed at celebrating linguistic diversity and fostering cross-cultural understanding.

Ola is also a respected public speaker, captivating audiences with her insights and engaging delivery. Her presentations often centre around the importance of effective communication, cultural sensitivity, and the power of language to bridge divides and connect people from different backgrounds. Ola’s commitment to promoting linguistic diversity and cultural understanding has earned her recognition as a thought leader in her field, inspiring others to embrace the Irish language and celebrate the diversity of human expression. Through her work as a broadcaster, public speaker, and language advocate, Ola continues to make a meaningful impact, contributing to a more inclusive and interconnected global community.

Under her leadership, AkiDwA has developed numerous programs aimed at addressing issues such as gender-based violence, healthcare access, and social integration. Salome’s tireless work has not only provided critical support services to countless women but also raised awareness about the unique challenges faced by migrant communities in Ireland.

In addition to her role at AkiDwA, Salome is a respected voice on international platforms, advocating for policy changes and initiatives that promote social justice and inclusion. She has served on various advisory boards and committees, including the European Network of Migrant Women and the UN Women Ireland National Committee. Mbugua’s efforts have been recognized with numerous awards, highlighting her impact as a leader and changemaker. Through her advocacy, Mbugua continues to inspire and empower individuals and communities, working tirelessly to build a more inclusive and equitable society. Her contributions to social justice and her leadership in championing the rights of migrant women make her an invaluable speaker and advocate on issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion

In her role as Senior Programme Manager, Aisling brings investors together to help finance a fair, inclusive, and sustainable transition to net zero, ensuring people and communities are not left behind. Before moving to the UK, she spent over a decade at Grant Thornton Ireland, where she helped build the firm’s Sustainability Advisory practice and guided major financial institutions on their ESG strategies. Her leadership and advocacy have been recognised globally through the EMpower Top 100 Future Leader List and the Chartered Star Award for her contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Deeply committed to equity and representation, Aisling uses her platform to open doors for others. She is Chair of Global Action Plan Ireland, a Trustee of Business to Arts, and Co-Founder of the Green Team Network, helping drive collective action for sustainability across the Irish funds industry. Aisling also mentors emerging professionals through the African Professional Network of Ireland (APNI) and has previously co-chaired both Chartered Accountants Ireland’s Ethnicity Network and the 100 Women in Finance Early Career Committee. She champions the idea that finance, when driven by purpose and compassion, can be one of the world’s most powerful tools for change.

In his club career he started at St Patrick’s Athletics, before being scouted and signed by Manchester United, playing 163 times for them. He then went on to have successful careers at Aston Villa, Derby County and Sheffield United playing 478 club matches in total. All of this while having chronic knee pain and being a self confessed alcoholic throughout his career.

Paul has dedicated himself to various charitable causes, particularly those focusing on mental health and addiction. Drawing from his own struggles and triumphs, Paul has become a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, using his platform to destigmatise conversations around mental illness and encourage others to seek help. Through partnerships with organisations and speaking engagements, McGrath has tirelessly campaigned for greater support and resources for individuals facing mental health challenges.He has been actively involved in initiatives aimed at supporting marginalised communities, including homelessness and addiction recovery programs, in addition to being an ambassador for Repak Green 

She graduated from Maynooth University in 2018 with a degree in international finance, economics, and German. Katja began her career after being discovered by a modelling agency in 2020. She guest hosted Ireland AM in 2022 before securing a full-time weekend hosting position, later transitioning to co-host The 6 O’Clock Show alongside Brian Dowling. She also competed in the seventh series of Dancing with the Stars, finishing in sixth place.

Katja Miaa is outspoken about her experiences with racial abuse in Ireland and actively supports the Black Lives Matter movement. She openly discusses challenges such as imposter syndrome and racism while promoting body confidence and resilience. Her family’s immigration journey deeply influences her values, and she advocates for acceptance amid rising anti-immigration sentiment in Ireland.

Katja was awarded the Personality of the Year at the 2024 Black and Irish Awards and recently Katja was annouced as a new 2FM weekend presenter

She leads on the development of inclusive workforce policies across the Irish public sector. Prior to this, she was Head of ED&I at Publicjobs for three years, driving initiatives to broaden access and reflect Ireland’s diversity in public sector recruitment.

In her previous role at Head of ED&I at Publicjobs.ie she implemented programmes to increase equity in civil service hiring practices, reduce unconscious bias, and create pathways for underrepresented groups to access public sector careers. Siobhán was recognised for her impactful work with the CIPD Diversity Champion Award 2023. She is a strong advocate for embedding inclusive leadership and cultural competence into organisational practices to build a workforce that truly reflects Ireland’s diverse society. Through public speaking and collaboration across sectors, Siobhán continues to drive positive social change and workplace equality in Ireland. Siobhán is currently on the Board of Black & Irish, a non-profit working to support and amplify the voices of Black and mixed-race Irish communities.

Through its diverse programs, including mentorship, career accelerators, workshops, networking events, and business pitch competitions, APNI seeks to enhance career development and entrepreneurship within the African diaspora community. The network also partners with leading Irish and global companies to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workforce and facilitate meaningful employment opportunities. Moreover, APNI supports mental health and personal wellness by collaborating with organizations like Black Therapist Ireland.

APNI organises quarterly large-scale events such as career fairs and business exhibitions, along with monthly webinars that engage the community and provide expert knowledge. Their mentorship programs connect emerging professionals with experienced industry experts to navigate career paths and develop skills. The network addresses challenges African professionals face in Ireland, such as barriers to employment, lack of access to professional networks, and recognition of foreign qualifications, by advocating for fair hiring practices and fostering inclusive workplaces. “With over 3,700 members and having partnered with organisations like Google, LinkedIn, Bank of Ireland, and Microsoft, APNI is a recognised leader in promoting Black/Afro-Irish professional success and social impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.”

Embracing his new home, Zak developed a passion for hurling, and quickly made a name for himself with his exceptional skills and dedication. His talent and hard work led him to become a prominent player for the Leitrim senior hurling team, where he has become a symbol of perseverance and success in the face of adversity.

Zak is a dedicated advocate for integration and diversity. He actively engages in community outreach, using his platform to support and mentor young people from immigrant and refugee backgrounds. Perhaps most famously Zak spoke at The Eid Festival in Croke Park in 2022. Zak’s story is not just one of personal triumph but also a testament to the power of sport in bringing people together and fostering community spirit. He frequently speaks at events and in media, sharing his experiences to inspire others and promote inclusivity within Irish society. Zak’s contributions extend far beyond hurling, as he continues to champion the values of resilience, diversity, and community cohesion.

Her vision for GirlCrew stemmed from a desire to combat social isolation and empower women to pursue their passions and ambitions. Through her leadership, GirlCrew has grown into a thriving network with a presence in cities around the world, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among its diverse members. Having stepped down from Girl Crew in 2019 Aine is now involved in big tech having worked for the likes of Accenture and is currently working for Amazon.

Áine has received several notable awards and recognitions for her entrepreneurial and community impact. Key awards include being named a winner in the EU Welcome Project Initiative, included in Forbes’ Top 100 EU Female Founders to Follow, and recognised as a finalist in the Young Entrepreneur Category by Creative Oceanic. She has won the U Magazine 30Under30 Community Activism award, was a recipient of the JCI Dublin Ten Outstanding Young People recognition, and received honours from the Google Adopt a Start-up programme and Business Cloud Tech Trailblazers. Additionally, she received a Bronze Award for Best Lifestyle Blog (Company) at The Blog Awards Ireland.

Ruth’s ability to embody complex characters with nuance and authenticity has solidified her reputation as one of the most compelling performers of her generation.

Ruth is a prominent advocate for diversity and representation in the entertainment industry. As a woman of Ethiopian and Irish descent, she has spoken candidly about the importance of seeing diverse stories and voices on screen. Ruth ‘s advocacy extends beyond her roles, as she actively supports initiatives and organisations that promote inclusivity and equality in the arts. Through her talent, advocacy, and commitment to authenticity, Ruth continues to inspire audiences and fellow artists alike, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.

With a background in aerospace engineering, Fig joined NASA as a young prodigy, where she quickly distinguished herself as a brilliant mind in the field of space exploration. Fig used her platform to spotlight the need for diversity and women in STEM. Fig then began working as one of the hosts of Mission Unstoppable, a TV science show on CBS. Some of Fig’s awards include: 

• Trailblazer Award at the 2023 Diversity in Tech Awards in Dublin, recognising her advocacy work for women and people of colour in STEM fields.
• AAIDN Heritage and Diaspora Spirit Award from the African American Irish Diaspora Network in 2021, celebrating her leadership and contribution to the Black Irish community.
• The youngest honorary fellow ever voted by Engineers Ireland in 2021, recognising her efforts to promote engineering and STEM education in Ireland.
• Recognition by Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin for advocacy work supporting communities of colour in Ireland.

Beyond her technical achievements, Fig is a dedicated STEM ambassador, committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators. Through her advocacy and outreach efforts, she encourages young people, especially women and underrepresented minorities, to pursue careers in STEM fields. Fig’s engaging presentations and mentorship programs inspire curiosity and instil confidence in aspiring scientists, fostering a diverse and inclusive STEM community. Her commitment to education and empowerment reflects a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of knowledge and the importance of fostering a passion for exploration and discovery in future generations.

Inspired by her own experiences as a young person navigating societal divides, Mamobo embarked on a mission to create a platform that promotes dialogue, empathy, and cultural exchange. Through Gorm Media, Mamobo has developed innovative strategies to engage youth in meaningful conversations about diversity, inclusion, and social justice, utilising digital media as a powerful tool for social change.

Gorm Media has emerged as a trailblazer in the realm of youth-focused media, producing content that challenges stereotypes, amplifies marginalised voices, and promotes cross-cultural understanding. Through a combination of digital storytelling, workshops, and community events, Mamobo and her team have sparked a movement of empowerment and solidarity among young people from diverse backgrounds. Her dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable society has earned her widespread recognition and admiration, making Mamobo Ogoro a driving force for positive change in Ireland and beyond

He was EMEA Portfolio Manager at The One Foundation, where he led transformative humanitarian innovation projects across the EMEA region, partnering with bodies like UNICEF to deliver cutting-edge education, health and SAR programs in conflict-affected areas. Lye’s approach blends community-driven diplomacy with emerging technologies – His efforts have earned him the UNICEF Champion for Children Award 2018, the IUSA Emerging Leader award in 2022 for advancing Irish-U.S relations and Women in STEM Ireland Male Champion of Change (2024). 

Being a Common Purpose Fellow and Africa Finance Corporation Fellow, Lye exemplifies Marc Benioff’s belief that “the business of business is to improve the state of the world.” He currently serves on the boards of Temple Bar Gallery + Studios, World Vision Ireland, Headfort School, and the Ireland United States Alumni Association. He is a Huckletree Dublin Ambassador.

Adaku is a passionate advocate for gender equality and youth empowerment, working tirelessly to break down barriers and create opportunities for underprivileged populations. Through mentorship programs, skills development workshops, and advocacy campaigns, she inspires young people, particularly women and girls, to pursue their dreams and become leaders in their communities. Okafor’s unwavering commitment to social impact and her visionary leadership have earned her recognition and accolades, positioning her as a leading figure in the global social entrepreneurship landscape.

Despite the hardships she faced, Melatu found solace in writing, using it as a means of self-expression and catharsis. Her debut collection of short stories, “This Hostel Life,” offers a poignant and unflinching portrayal of life in Direct Provision, shedding light on the experiences of asylum seekers in Ireland and the human cost of the immigration system.

Through her writing, Melatu has become a voice for the voiceless, advocating for the rights and dignity of asylum seekers and refugees. Her work challenges societal perceptions and stereotypes, humanising those who are often marginalised and overlooked. In addition to her literary contributions, Melatu is actively involved in advocacy efforts aimed at reforming Ireland’s asylum system and creating a more compassionate and inclusive society. By sharing her own experiences and amplifying the voices of others, Melatu continues to inspire empathy, understanding, and action, paving the way for positive change in Ireland and beyond.

With her captivating performances and poignant poetry, Felispeaks has emerged as a powerful voice, addressing themes of identity, belonging, and social justice. Drawing from her rich cultural heritage and personal experiences as a Nigerian immigrant in Ireland, she brings a unique perspective to her work, captivating audiences with her raw emotion and lyrical prowess. Among her notable awards, she won the Best Performer Award at the Dublin Fringe Festival in 2022 for her role in THISISPOPBABY’s production WAKE, which toured from Dublin to London’s West End and Manchester’s Aviva Studios. She was also nominated for Best Performer at the same festival in 2018 for the co-written play Boy Child. Her poetry, including “For Our Mothers,” has been included in the English Leaving Certificate curriculum as of 2023, marking a significant recognition of her work’s cultural impact. In addition to these achievements, Felicia received the Catalyst Award at the 2021 Irish Tatler Woman of the Year Awards, recognising her influence and contribution to contemporary Irish culture and arts.

Felicia has actively advocated for diversity and representation, particularly for artists from underrepresented backgrounds. Through her poetry and performances, she challenges societal norms and amplifies the voices of marginalised communities, shedding light on issues of racism, discrimination, and social inequality. Felispeaks’ impact extends beyond the stage, as she engages in community outreach and mentorship programs, inspiring the next generation of artists to find their voice and pursue their passions. 

She is a former Irish international basketball player and current advocate for positive body image and self-love, known for her TV work including the RTE2 docu-series “Keep It Up” investigating why girls drop out of sport ages 12-14. Emer uses her platform to challenge unconscious bias and racism, exemplified by her TEDx talk “Don’t Put Me in a Box,” which weaves her personal experience as a Black Irish woman with calls to be actively anti-racist.

Emer has authored an inclusive children’s book, “The Same But Different,” to foster conversations about diversity, self-acceptance, and overcoming self-doubt among young readers. She is a founding member of an anti-racism group in Bray, Co. Wicklow, has contributed to policy on anti-racism, and developed EDI workshops for schools and organisations. 

Nicole has become a leading voice in drug education in Ireland, reaching thousands of students and community members with its innovative programs and initiatives. Through a combination of interactive workshops, educational resources, and community outreach efforts, Ryan and her team are making significant strides in promoting drug literacy and reducing substance abuse among youth.

Nicole’s commitment to drug education and prevention extends beyond her role at Alex’s Adventure. As an advocate for social change and youth empowerment, she actively collaborates with schools, government agencies, and community organisations to develop comprehensive strategies for addressing substance abuse and supporting at-risk youth. 

Nicole’s leadership and expertise have earned her recognition as a thought leader in the field of drug education, with her innovative approach and dedication to empowering young people setting a new standard for prevention efforts in Ireland. Through her tireless advocacy and commitment to creating positive change, Nicole is making a lasting impact on the lives of young people and communities across the country.

In 2024 Nicole was nominated to the Seanad  in 2025 by Sinn Fein

Winning the All Ireland in 1995 with Dublin His contributions to the team, including memorable goals and stellar performances, solidified his status as one of the most beloved and iconic players in Dublin GAA history. Beyond his playing career, Sherlock has transitioned into coaching, using his wealth of experience and expertise to mentor the next generation of athletes he coached Dublin forwards for 4 years between 2015-2019 winning.4 All Ireland’s in the process. He is currently the manager of Westmeath Gaelic Football team in addition to being a director of development for DCU Educational Trust for the last 6 years.

Off the field, with his father having been born in Hong Kong, during the 90’s Jason was one of the most visible mixed-raced people in Ireland. This has led to Jason being recognised for his advocacy work and community engagement efforts. As a champion for youth empowerment and social inclusion, he has been involved in numerous initiatives aimed at supporting disadvantaged communities and promoting positive change. Jason’s commitment to using sport as a vehicle for social impact has earned him widespread respect and admiration, inspiring others to make a difference in their communities. 

However, she defied the odds by focusing on her education and career aspirations. Through sheer perseverance and a strong support system, she managed to excel academically, eventually earning a degree in accounting working for the likes of KPMG. Her story, detailed in her autobiography, provides a profound narrative of overcoming significant obstacles and serves as an inspiration to many who face similar struggles.

Today, Deborah Somorin is not only a successful accountant but also a respected author and influential advocate for young people facing homelessness and other adversities. She founded Empower the Family, an organisation dedicated to supporting single parents and young people in education by providing housing and mentorship. Deborah’s advocacy work and personal achievements have earned her recognition, including being featured in Forbes 30 Under 30 list. Her story highlights the importance of resilience, education, and community support in transforming lives, and she continues to use her platform to inspire and assist others in overcoming their own challenges.

Despite facing challenges during his tenure, and the COVID-19 pandemic, Varadkar’s leadership has been characterised by his steady approach and commitment to serving the interests of the Irish people.

It’s perhaps his role in Brexit negotiations that Dr Varadkar is best known for supporting Irish business. Through these negotiations the team of civil servants led by Dr Varaafkar were able to to get the best deal possible for Irish people doing business in the UK while ensuring that the UK stood their obligations while negotiations were taking place. Since resigning as leader of Fine Gael Dr Varadakar has he continues to contribute to public life

Alongside his role at Black & Irish, Pierre founded SoloBook, an AI-powered travel platform designed to improve safety for female solo travellers. His achievements include winning Best Pitch at the IADT MediaCube Showcase 2024 and making the regional shortlist for the National Startup Awards 2024.

Pierre has a strong leadership background, serving as National President for Junior Chambers International (Ireland), where he has empowered young professionals and entrepreneurs across the country. His earlier governance and engagement roles include community executive positions at Engineers Ireland and student union presidencies at Dublin Institute of Technology and Technological University Dublin. Recognised as one of Business Post’s Top 30 Under 30 Tech Innovators in 2025, Pierre combines expertise in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and governance with a passionate commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

He rose to prominence with Munster, one of Ireland’s leading provincial teams, where his speed, agility, and try-scoring ability quickly made him a fan favourite. Zebo’s flair and creativity have not gone unnoticed over the years. Zebo made his debut for Ireland in 2012 and amassed 35 caps in 5 years, while also being called up to The British and Irish Lions squad in 2013. Zebo has also played for Munster 175 times during two spells with the province scoring a record 73 tries in process.

Having been the first black player to play rugby for Ireland. Zebo is also known for his charismatic personality and his advocacy for diversity and inclusion within the sport. His engaging presence and openness have made him a prominent figure in promoting rugby to a broader audience, breaking down barriers, and encouraging young players from all backgrounds to pursue the sport. In an interview with Sky Sports, he addressed the issue directly, saying, “We need to make sure that the game is welcoming for everyone, that people feel comfortable, no matter what their background.” Zebo’s willingness to speak out about racism and his call for inclusivity highlight his commitment to fostering a more inclusive environment within rugby and beyond.