Baroness Lola Young has spent over five decades championing social justice, making her one of the most influential voices on race equality, wealth disparity, gender equality, young people’s rights, and anti-slavery. Her extensive career spans academia, literature, arts, and activism, transforming her into a sought-after motivational speaker on crucial social issues.
Baroness Young’s career began in academia, where she lectured in Media Studies and rose to become a Professor of Cultural Studies at Middlesex University. Her passion for social equity extended into literary contributions, including her seminal work Fear of the Dark: Race, Gender & Sexuality in the Cinema. Her scholarly insights laid the foundation for her advocacy work in public institutions, including serving on the boards of the Royal National Theatre and Southbank Centre. In 2001, Baroness Young was appointed Head of Culture for the Greater London Authority, where she led initiatives promoting cultural diversity and representation across London’s creative sectors.
In 2004, she was created a Life Peer, taking the title of Baroness Young of Hornsey. This appointment formalised her role as a social justice advocate in the House of Lords, where she pushed for legislative reforms in race relations and equality. She also chaired the Nitro Theatre Company and played a pivotal role in cultural heritage as a member of the English Heritage Blue Plaques Committee. Baroness Young’s influence continued with her work as Chancellor of the University of Nottingham and Chair of the Booker Prize judging panel. Her advocacy for women’s rights saw her become a signatory for allowing women to inherit noble titles.
Today, Baroness Young inspires audiences worldwide as a motivational speaker. Her official speaking topics of culture, identity, ethics, the Care System and Sustainability reflect her lifelong commitment to social progress. Her TEDx Talk Who Made Your Clothes? and her latest book Eight Weeks: Looking Back, Moving Forwards, Defying the Odds further solidify her reputation as a powerful advocate for positive change. By sharing her personal journey and professional insights, Baroness Lola Young empowers individuals and organisations to create more equitable, ethical, and sustainable futures.
