Simone Biles

Simone Biles is a celebrated Olympic gymnast and mental health advocate, best known for her trailblazing impact in gymnastics and her vocal support for racial equality. She works with advocacy groups and global platforms to promote inclusivity and mental wellness, using her lived experience as a Black woman in sport to challenge systemic racism. As a speaker, she addresses topics such as racial injustice, mental health, resilience, and female empowerment. Her powerful and personal storytelling makes her a compelling figure at the forefront of conversations around equality in sport and society.

Born in Columbus, Ohio, in 1997, Simone discovered gymnastics at six years old and rose swiftly through the ranks due to her exceptional skill and drive. She joined the U.S. national team in 2012 and made her international debut in 2013, becoming the first African American woman to win the World All-Around title. Since then, she has redefined the sport, earning 25 World Championship medals, including 19 golds, and seven Olympic medals, four of which are gold. Her ground-breaking routines include moves so difficult they are named after her, such as the Biles on floor and the Biles II on beam.

Simone’s achievements extend far beyond medals. She has been featured on the TIME 100 Most Influential People list, Forbes 30 Under 30, and the Ebony Power 100. In 2021, she drew global attention at the Tokyo Olympics by withdrawing from events to prioritise her mental health, sparking a worldwide discussion on athlete wellbeing. In 2023 and 2024, she returned to competition, winning her eighth U.S. national title and securing four more World Championship medals, proving her enduring dominance in the sport.

Her speaking engagements offer insight into the pressures faced by Black women in elite spaces and the courage it takes to stand up against injustice. By sharing her journey with honesty and vulnerability, she inspires audiences to prioritise wellbeing, challenge inequality, and create inclusive environments. Simone is the embodiment of strength, advocacy, and integrity — making her an exceptional choice for organisations committed to social justice, representation, and mental health awareness.