Sonita Alleyne

Sonita Alleyne is a trailblazing leader, broadcaster, and advocate for diversity and inclusion. She currently serves as the Master of Jesus College, Cambridge, the first woman and first Black person to hold this role in the college’s 500-year history. As a passionate racial equality speaker, Sonita is driven by a commitment to breaking down structural barriers and creating inclusive environments in education, media, and business. Her speaking topics often include leadership through inclusion, race and representation in the workplace, and challenging unconscious bias in institutions.

Sonita’s journey began in Walthamstow, East London, after moving from Barbados at the age of three. She studied philosophy at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge, and went on to work in finance before finding her calling in media. In 1991, she co-founded the award-winning media production company, Somethin’ Else, where she served as Chief Executive Officer. Her leadership in a competitive industry, particularly as a Black woman, shaped her understanding of the challenges faced by underrepresented groups – fuelling her commitment to speak out and inspire change.

In recent years, Sonita has been recognised for her significant contributions to public life. She was awarded an OBE for services to broadcasting in 2003 and has held influential board positions with the BBC Trust, Archant, and the British Board of Film Classification. In 2019, her appointment as Master of Jesus College marked a historic moment for diversity in higher education. She has also been listed in the Powerlist of the 100 most influential Black Britons, highlighting her ongoing impact as a cultural and academic leader.

Organisations seek out Sonita Alleyne as a speaker for her unique combination of lived experience, senior leadership, and communication expertise. Her talks are both insightful and action-focused, covering topics such as racial equality in education, inclusive leadership, and dismantling systemic bias. Whether addressing students, corporate leaders, or public sector professionals, she brings authenticity, clarity, and a forward-looking vision for change – making her one of the most compelling and credible voices in conversations about race and equity today.