Baroness Lola Young

​Baroness Lola Young of Hornsey is a distinguished British cultural leader, social justice advocate, and Chancellor of the University of Nottingham. Her extensive career encompasses acting, academia, and public service, all underscored by a steadfast commitment to racial equality and social reform. Motivated by her personal experiences and a profound sense of justice, Lola addresses pressing societal issues through her speaking engagements, focusing on topics such as culture, identity, ethics, the care system, and sustainability.

Lola’s journey began in the arts, where she worked as an actress and presenter, notably appearing in the children’s series Play School and the sitcom Metal Mickey. Transitioning to academia, she became a Professor of Cultural Studies at Middlesex University, where she authored Fear of the Dark: Race, Gender & Sexuality in the Cinema, a seminal work exploring representations in film. Her academic pursuits laid the groundwork for her advocacy in cultural policy and diversity.

In recognition of her contributions, Lola was appointed an OBE in 2001 for services to Black British history. She served as the Head of Culture for the Greater London Authority, leading initiatives to promote cultural diversity across London’s creative sectors. In 2004, she was ennobled as a life peer, taking the title Baroness Young of Hornsey, becoming one of the first Black women in the House of Lords. Her recent achievements include chairing the Booker Prize judging panel in 2017 and publishing her memoir, Eight Weeks: Looking Back, Moving Forwards, Defying the Odds, in 2024, which reflects on her journey from foster care to the House of Lords. ​

As a speaker, Lola delves into complex subjects with depth and insight. On culture and identity, she examines how societal narratives shape perceptions and the importance of inclusive representation. Her discussions on ethics and sustainability highlight the need for responsible practices within industries, particularly in fashion, advocating for transparency and accountability. Drawing from her personal experiences in the care system, she offers valuable perspectives on improving support for care-experienced individuals. Organisations seek Lola’s expertise to inspire meaningful dialogue and drive transformative change towards a more equitable society.