David Harewood

David Harewood OBE is a distinguished British actor, author, and activist, renowned for his compelling performances in productions such as Homeland, Blood Diamond, and The Night Manager. In February 2024, he was appointed President of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), becoming the first person of colour to hold this prestigious position. Motivated by his personal experiences with racism and mental health challenges, David has become a passionate advocate for racial equality. His speaking engagements often address topics such as the impact of racism on mental health, the importance of diversity and inclusion in the arts, and the historical context of racial disparities.​

David’s journey began in Birmingham, where he was born to Barbadian parents. After training at RADA, he made history in 1997 as the first Black actor to portray Othello at the National Theatre in London. Despite his talent, David faced significant racial discrimination early in his career, which contributed to a psychotic breakdown at the age of 23. These challenges have profoundly shaped his commitment to advocating for mental health awareness and racial equality.​

In recent years, David has expanded his influence beyond acting. In 2019, he co-produced and featured in the BBC documentary, Psychosis and Me, offering an intimate look into his struggles with mental health. His 2021 memoir, Maybe I Don’t Belong Here: A Memoir of Race, Identity, Breakdown and Recovery, further explores these themes. Additionally, David has delivered the 2023 Richard Dimbleby Lecture, being the first Black presenter to do so, discussing the experiences of the Windrush generation and the challenges faced by his parents’ generation.

David is sought after for his ability to intertwine personal narratives with broader societal issues, providing insightful commentary on the intersection of race and mental health. His speaking topics include the psychological impact of racism, the necessity for diverse representation in media, and the historical underpinnings of racial inequality. Organisations and institutions engage David for his eloquence, authenticity, and dedication to fostering understanding and change in discussions surrounding race and mental health.