Abena Akuffo-Kelly

Abena Akuffo-Kelly is a respected leadership coach and culture change strategist, widely recognised for her work as a BAME speaker addressing diversity, equity and inclusion. She speaks, trains and consults on all aspects of DE&I, with a particular focus on intersectionality, gender, race, ethnicity, neurodiversity and political leadership. Through keynotes, leadership roundtables, workshops and training programmes, Abena equips organisations with the insight and tools to build more inclusive cultures. Her work spans corporate, public and educational sectors, where she is valued for her ability to translate complex social issues into practical, actionable strategies that resonate with diverse audiences.

Abena’s career began with a strong academic foundation, having studied Social Anthropology before completing a master’s in Computer Science at the University of Kent. She progressed into education, ultimately becoming an Associate Assistant Head at The Howard School in Kent, where she developed a deep understanding of leadership, inclusion and systemic change within institutions. Her expertise in professional development led her to become a Professional Development Lead for STEM Learning, where she supported educators nationwide. This early career experience laid the groundwork for her transition into consultancy and leadership development, where she began shaping inclusive practices at scale.

Building on this foundation, Abena founded and directed Kanea Consulting and Repairs Together, organisations dedicated to leadership development and community impact. She has held influential roles across governance and advisory spaces, including serving as an Advisor and Independent Chair for Kent Police and as a District Councillor and Chair of Council at Folkestone and Hythe District Council, later becoming Mayor of Folkestone. Her work has extended into national programmes, including her role as an Anti Racist Schools Award Coach at Leeds Beckett University and as an educational consultant for the Association for Science Education. She has also contributed as a Political Leadership Trainer for the Labour Women’s Network and as an Executive Committee member of the Fabian Women’s Network. Her recent achievements include recognition as a finalist in the Kent Women in Business Awards and nomination for a Rising Star Award in the diversity category, alongside her appointment as Chief AI Learning and Transformation Officer at Anaiya Group Ltd.

As a BAME speaker, Abena stands out for her credibility, lived experience and strategic insight. She brings a rare combination of frontline leadership, political experience and educational expertise, enabling her to connect authentically with audiences while delivering high impact learning. Her emphasis on intersectionality ensures that conversations go beyond surface level diversity to address the realities of identity and systemic inequality. Organisations hire Abena not only for her compelling delivery, but for her ability to challenge thinking, inspire inclusive leadership and drive meaningful, lasting change.