Avril Grant

Avril Grant is a dynamic motivational speaker, life coach and CEO of AVision for Empowerment CIC. Known for her passionate advocacy around diversity, inclusion and race, Avril has become a sought-after voice for change, particularly within marginalised communities. Her lived experiences, professional expertise and unwavering commitment to empowerment make her an exceptional speaker on issues affecting BAME communities. She is regularly invited to speak on topics such as mental resilience, leadership and transforming adversity into strength, making her an inspiring figure for audiences seeking both insight and action.

Avril’s early career began in accounting, with roles that honed her attention to detail and professionalism. However, a deeper calling led her to pivot toward empowerment and change work. In 2010, she began transitioning into training and development, working with organisations like Pertemps PPDG and HMP Hewell, where she delivered impactful training programmes. In 2012, driven by her own experiences of racial discrimination and a desire to help others navigate similar challenges, she founded AVision for Empowerment CIC. Her work began to focus more closely on individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, particularly those involved in the criminal justice system.

Since its founding, AVision has made significant strides, especially in mentoring young people with violent convictions and guiding them towards stable employment. Under Avril’s leadership, the organisation has worked with over 32 UK prisons, delivered accredited empowerment programmes, and helped more than 60 individuals secure full-time jobs, with several launching their own businesses. In 2024, she officially became the CEO of AVision, solidifying her role as a leader in social change. Her TEDx talk, Overcome Your Fear With a Vision (Technique Included!), has further showcased her authenticity and insight, resonating deeply with diverse audiences.

Avril has been hired as a speaker not only because of her professional accolades but because she embodies the very transformation she advocates for. As a Black woman and mother who has overcome systemic barriers—including surviving a racially motivated shooting at just ten years old—she brings a rare combination of empathy, credibility, and authority. Her lived experience, reinforced by her TEDx talk on ‘Overcoming Fear and Uncertainty’, makes her a powerful and practical voice on diversity, inclusion, and racial equity.