Top Diversity & Inclusion Speakers in India
The pursuit of diversity and inclusion has shifted from being a mere HR checklist item to becoming a cornerstone of organizational strategy and purpose, particularly in India. With an Integrated variety of cultures, languages, and beliefs, India presents an incredibly complex and vibrant backdrop for conversations around diversity and inclusion. Organizations recognize that fostering an inclusive environment enhances employee well-being and fuels innovation and productivity.
Recent studies conducted by People Matters on Feb 3 2023 underscore the importance of these values within the Indian context, as the nation strives to harness its demographic diversity to fuel economic growth and innovation. A study reveals that an overwhelming majority of Indians are familiar with the concepts of diversity, equity, and inclusion, indicating a heightened awareness and readiness to embrace these ideals (People Matters). As companies strive to create workplaces that celebrate differences and promote equity, the role of D&I speakers becomes pivotal.
Why D&I Speakers Matter
D&I speakers are more than just eloquent voices on stage; they are catalysts for transformation. Drawing from their rich experiences, these thought leaders weave narratives that resonate with audiences across sectors. Their insights are grounded in empirical evidence, research, and real-world case studies. By sharing best practices, debunking myths, and advocating for change, these diversity and inclusion speakers empower organizations to build cultures of belonging.
Top 10 Diversity & Inclusion speakers
1) Soumi Sriram
Soumi Sriram, Vice President at Fleishman Hillard, is a seasoned communications professional with nearly 14 years of comprehensive experience. Her expertise spans PR consulting, internal and external corporate communications, product communications, brand and marketing communications, and crisis management. Soumi’s passion for the automotive sector has been evident throughout her career, having played pivotal roles at both Ford and Nissan. Driven by excellence, knowledge, and conviction, she brings a wealth of insights to the table.
As a highly self-motivated leader, Soumi possesses exceptional interpersonal skills that enable her to communicate effectively across all levels. Her expertise aligns seamlessly with the theme of diversity and inclusion. As a Diversity & Inclusion speaker, she delves into topics such as verbal communication, parenting, and media, emphasizing the importance of fostering an inclusive environment. Her insights resonate with organizations seeking to create a more diverse and equitable workplace.
2) Sutapa Sanyal
Sutapa Sanyal, an award-winning speaker and expert, is a prominent voice in the realm of Diversity & Inclusion, Gender Equality, and Women’s Leadership. With a distinguished career spanning 33 years, she made history as the first woman to serve as Director General of Police in India’s most populous state, Uttar Pradesh. Her unwavering commitment to fostering diverse and inclusive workplaces has earned her accolades, including the Police Medal for Distinguished Services from the Honorable President of India.
Sutapa’s impactful talks and consultations have resonated globally. She has addressed audiences at leading institutions and corporations, including Boeing, Taj Group, Ernst & Young, and Reliance-Jio.
Her recent speeches have delved into critical topics such as Gender Intelligent Leadership, well-being, and POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment). Her insights and expertise make her an invaluable addition to the roster of Top Diversity & Inclusion Speakers in India.
3) Barkha Dutt
Barkha Dutt, an award-winning TV journalist, anchor, and columnist, is a trailblazer in the field of Indian media. With over two decades of reporting experience, she has left an indelible mark on the industry. Dutt’s fearless reporting during the Kargil Conflict between India and Pakistan in 1999 catapulted her to prominence. As India’s only Emmy-nominated journalist, Dutt has garnered more than 40 national and international awards, including the prestigious Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honour.
Dutt’s latest speeches delve into diversity and inclusion, emphasizing the need for equal representation and empowerment. As a women diversity & inclusion speaker, she advocates for breaking down barriers and fostering an inclusive environment.
4) Dr. Meeran Borwakar
Dr Meeran Chadha Borwankar, an experienced legal professional with a history of working in law enforcement, has left an indelible mark on India’s policing landscape. As an officer of the Indian Police Service (IPS), she achieved several significant milestones. Notably, she was Pune’s first woman police commissioner, breaking barriers and paving the way for other women in the field. Her illustrious career spanned 36 years, during which she held key positions, including heading the Mumbai crime branch. Meeran’s no-nonsense approach towards corruption and political interference in policing decisions garnered respect and admiration.
Her achievements extend beyond her professional roles. she played a pivotal role in investigating the Jalgaon sex scandal, emphasizing the need for greater sensitivity and representation in law enforcement. As a women diversity & inclusion speaker, she inspires girls from all backgrounds to join the workforce, guiding them to boost their confidence and self-esteem.
5) Shelja Sen
Shelja Sen, a narrative therapist, writer, and co-founder of the Children First Institute of Child & Adolescent Mental Health, has authored several critically acclaimed books, including All You Need is Love, Imagine, and Reclaim Your Life. As a TED speaker and international faculty at Dulwich Centre, Adelaide, she weaves stories that honor human dignity and amplify meaningful narratives. Her latest work, Reclaim Your Life, continues to inspire and empower readers.
Shejin Sen, with her compassionate approach, fosters collaborative efforts that celebrate individual dignity and elevate narratives. As a correspondent for the Indian Express, she contributes to enriching dialogues and promoting well-being through her insightful work.
6) Suman Nalwa
Suman Nalwa is a 1996 group DANIPS officer having worked in NCR and Andaman, and Nicobar Island. Currently, she is posted as DCP- Training and Principal, Police Training School. She was shortly serving as Deputy Commissioner of Police in Special Police Unit for Woman and Children, a nodal unit of NCR Police, matters. She is a powerful advocate of women’s rights and has also served as a Sub-Divisional Officer in the Crime against Women and Anti-Corruption Units.
7) Nandita Das
Nandita Das has appeared in more than 40 feature films in 10 various languages. She began her directorial debut in 2008 with Firaaq, which won many accolades and recognition, both in India and abroad. She was on the board at the Cannes Film Festival twice (2005 and 2013). Nandita also penned, directed, and acted in the play, Between the Lines, in 2012, which dealt with the apparent gender differences in educated urban couples. She has a master’s degree in Social Work and has worked with various NGOs before films gave her a broader platform to expand her role as a social advocate.
8) Shweta Shalini
Shweta’s journey began as an entrepreneur-founder of Fortune Cookie Marketing Solutions, where she demonstrated her business acumen. Her subsequent success with two other IT companies earned her the prestigious title of Entrepreneur of the Year in 2011. However, her entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there. Shweta Shalini is also a Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, the State Secretary, and Spokesperson for BJP Maharashtra and has made significant contributions to Indian politics.
Beyond her roles, Shweta is an advocate for women’s empowerment and also a Women’s DEI keynote speaker. In her latest speech “Harmony in Diversity: Building Bridges for Inclusion” She delves into the significance of embracing different perspectives, backgrounds, and identities to create a more inclusive society.
9) Laxmi Narayan Tripathi
Laxmi was the prime transgender rights activist to serve Asia Pacific in UN 2008. She has assisted NGOs which lead LGBT activist work. In 2007, she began her organization, Astitva, which promotes the well-being of sexual minorities, their care and community. From her expertise and in her unique, bold and brave way, she tells about the travails of being transgender and the pure beauty of it.
10) Sushant Divgikar
Sushant Divgikar is a Model, actor, singer cum video-jockey Sushant, also popularly called Rani Ko-He-Nur, a drag icon and India’s first drag artist starred on the Forbes 30 under 30 Asia list. He speaks about his practice, throwing light on India’s drag culture and the socio-cultural concerns that bother the country’s community.
Bottom Line
These above-mentioned 10 Diversity & Inclusion speakers’ voices resonate with authenticity, empathy, and a commitment to positive change. Let us celebrate their work and honour their dedication. Their collective impact inspires us to create a more inclusive world, where every voice matters. Let us continue to learn from their wisdom and work together toward a brighter future.
