Elaine Sihera

Elaine Sihera is a renowned life coach, writer, and public speaker, widely recognised for her expertise in racial equality, diversity, emotional wellbeing, and personal empowerment. As a racial equality speaker, Elaine brings authenticity, lived experience, and a pioneering approach to her speaking engagements, addressing topics such as emotional intelligence, self-empowerment, personal development, and effective diversity management. Through her talks and workshops, she promotes greater understanding, inclusion, and confidence, inspiring individuals and organisations to embrace and celebrate difference. Elaine continues to lead important conversations on race, equality, and emotional health, making her an influential voice in modern British society.

Elaine’s professional journey began after moving from Kingston, Jamaica, to the United Kingdom as a teenager. She became the first Black graduate of the Open University, later being honoured as an Open University Doctor. Elaine started her career as a Senior Education Manager in a secondary school, where she dramatically improved both attendance and academic performance in her year group. Her passion for education and equality then led her to become the Education Editor of The Voice newspaper, where she championed representation and diversity. She was the first Black woman to own a national magazine, New Impact, which raised awareness of multicultural and training issues throughout Britain. These early roles solidified her reputation as a leader and advocate for diversity and equality.

In addition to her speaking career, Elaine is the founder of both The British Diversity Awards and The Windrush Achievement Awards. These initiatives have been instrumental in progressing effective diversity management in many UK establishments. She was the presenter of the first Diversity Lecture at the UK House of Commons and a keynote speaker at the UNESCO Global Women’s Leadership Conference in Paris. Elaine is also the only woman to have been simultaneously awarded two National Training Awards by the Department of Trade and Industry. Her books, including Understanding Racism and Bias and Managing the Diversity Maze, further establish her authority on racial equality and personal empowerment.

Organisations and individuals seek out Elaine for her depth of understanding, practical advice, and inspiring personal story. As a life coach and public speaker, she brings authenticity and credibility to discussions around emotional health, personal empowerment, and navigating difference. Elaine’s ability to connect with diverse audiences, coupled with her pioneering achievements and trailblazing approach, makes her a sought-after expert for those looking to foster inclusion, confidence, and emotional intelligence in both personal and professional settings.