Pragya Agarwal

Pragya Agarwal is a renowned speaker on diversity and inclusion, social mobility, and gender equality, known for her insightful talks that explore complex issues like unconscious bias, racism, and gender dynamics. As the Director of The 50 Percent Foundation, a think tank dedicated to combating biases against women and creating inclusive spaces, she has made a significant impact in this field. Pragya’s expertise as a behaviour and data scientist has shaped her approach to these topics, which she shares through keynote speeches, TEDx talks, and workshops across the globe. Her engaging presentations, such as “How to Develop a Creative Habit” and “Shattering Gender Stereotypes: Feminism is Good for Men,” reflect her commitment to addressing delicate conversations around gender, race, and diversity.

Pragya’s academic credentials are extensive, having earned a PhD in Behavioural & Data Science from the University of Nottingham. Her career includes influential roles such as Lecturer at University College London, Programme Director at Lancaster University, and Adjunct Professor at Johns Hopkins University. Currently, she is a Visiting Professor of Social Inequities and Injustice at Loughborough University and a Visiting Fellow at the University of Oxford. Her scholarly work has been featured on reading lists of major universities worldwide, highlighting her influence in academia. In 2023, she was also named a Fulbright Scholar at the University of California and a Churchill Fellow, further underlining her expertise in her field.

As an author, Pragya Agarwal’s books delve into crucial topics such as stereotypes, gender inequality, and reproductive justice. Her latest book, “Hysterical: Exploding the Myth of Gendered Emotions,” critically examines how society perceives emotions through a gendered lens and was acclaimed as the Waterstones Best Book of 2022. Other significant works include “Sway: Unravelling Unconscious Bias,” “Wish We Knew What to Say: Talking with Children About Race,” and “(M)otherhood: On the Choices of Being a Woman.” Each of these books provides valuable perspectives on issues of bias and social justice, making her an important voice in contemporary discussions on these topics.

Pragya is also a prolific writer and media commentator, contributing to well-regarded publications like The Guardian, The Independent, Forbes, and New Statesman. She regularly appears on prominent platforms such as BBC Woman’s Hour, NPR, and Sky News, discussing issues of gender, race, and social justice. Through her podcast, “Outside the Boxes,” she explores the societal impact of labels and stereotypes, and in her mini-series “Wish We Knew What To Say,” she examines raising children with secure identities. Pragya Agarwal continues to inspire and educate audiences around the world, combining rigorous research with a deep passion for social equity.