Akala is a renowned social entrepreneur, author, activist and award-winning hip-hop artist whose powerful voice on race, class and inequality has made him one of the most sought-after motivational and diversity and inclusion speakers in the UK. With a loyal following among younger audiences, his ability to connect complex ideas with lived experiences has gained him recognition not only as a dynamic speaker but also as a cultural force. Akala’s ability to challenge perspectives, raise awareness, and inspire action has led to his frequent invitations to speak at universities, conferences and corporate events, where his insights help shape more inclusive spaces and communities.
Starting his career in music in 2003, Akala quickly made a name for himself, winning both MOBO and BAFTA awards for his lyrical intelligence and cultural commentary. His music, particularly albums such as “The Thieves Banquet” and “Knowledge is Power, Vol. 2”, confronts societal issues with a rare depth and poetic clarity. In 2009, his passion for both music and literature inspired him to found The Hip Hop Shakespeare Company – a groundbreaking initiative that draws parallels between modern rap and the works of Shakespeare. This programme has empowered young people worldwide, offering them opportunities to engage with the arts and express themselves alongside leading artists, helping reshape perceptions of youth and culture.
Beyond music, Akala has cemented his reputation through his writing and broadcasting. His children’s book “You Can Do Anything: Hip and Hop” encourages emotional intelligence and social awareness in young readers, while his critically acclaimed autobiography “NATIVES: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire” offers a powerful exploration of race, identity, and inequality in Britain. His passion for history and storytelling also led him to write “The Dark Lady”, a novel that introduces young readers to the realities of the Renaissance through an imaginative narrative. His television work, including Akala’s “Odyssey” and “The Ruins of Empires”, has further amplified his message, combining intellectual depth with accessible, engaging content.
Akala is regularly hired as a speaker because he brings an unmatched combination of intellect, creativity, and lived experience to conversations around diversity, inclusion, and social justice. His work resonates across generations, particularly with young people, making him an invaluable presence at academic institutions, corporate diversity events and leadership forums. Whether discussing structural inequality, education, or youth empowerment, Akala inspires audiences to challenge the status quo and take action towards meaningful change.
