Jess Clarke

Jess Clarke is a former professional footballer and a passionate advocate for diversity, inclusion, and the well-being of young people. With over 50 caps for the England Lionesses and a career spanning more than a decade at the top of women’s football, Jess is now a sought-after speaker on issues relating to race, mental health, and identity in sport. She brings a unique perspective as one of only 25 Black women to have represented England at the senior level, and her lived experience informs the honest, inspiring messages she shares with audiences. Jess is regularly invited to speak because of her ability to connect deeply with people and to challenge limiting beliefs through her personal story of resilience and growth.

Jess began her football career with Leeds United, joining their Under-16s and quickly rising through the ranks. She helped secure the club’s first major silverware with victory in the 2010 Premier League Cup and featured in three consecutive FA Women’s Cup Finals. Her talent saw her move to Lincoln Ladies, where she became a key figure and went on to play for top-tier sides including Notts County, Liverpool Women’s FC, Sheffield United, and Durham Women’s FC. A career-threatening injury in her later playing days tested her resolve, but her return to football in 2022 underlined her determination and passion for the game.

Over the years, Jess has earned widespread recognition for her achievements on and off the pitch. She played a crucial role in England’s UEFA Euro 2009 campaign, including a standout performance in the semi-final. Representing Team GB at the 2012 London Olympics, she became a visible role model for young Black athletes. Following her retirement in 2023, she redirected her focus toward youth health and empowerment, working with organisations like ActivKids UK and leading campaigns to promote physical activity and inclusion. Her commitment to uplifting the next generation has deepened her influence beyond sport.

Jess is hired as a speaker not only for her exceptional sporting credentials but for her compelling ability to discuss race, gender, and mental health with authenticity and empathy. Her journey through elite sport as a Black woman, facing both visible and invisible challenges, makes her an inspiring voice for change and a powerful advocate for greater inclusion in every arena.