Laila El-Metoui stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration in the realms of LGBT+, diversity, inclusion, and women's empowerment. With over three decades dedicated to fostering greater acceptance within education, businesses, and society, Laila, an Arab lesbian, combines her personal experiences with industry-leading strategies to champion more inclusive teams and environments. As a keynote speaker, she masterfully illustrates the tangible benefits of eradicating discrimination, offering her audience the necessary tools for implementing change that yields long-lasting positive outcomes. Her work not only addresses the need for inclusivity but also serves as a guide for creating spaces where everyone feels valued and understood.
As the Founder and CEO of Pride in Education and Educating Out Racism, as well as an Equity and Belonging Consultant at LelmEducation, El-Metoui has been at the forefront of establishing equity education, training, and support. Her efforts have led to the organisation of conferences that promote inclusivity and the provision of insightful content for hundreds of local and global corporate clients. Her dedication extends beyond her professional roles, as demonstrated by her involvement in philanthropic activities, including founding Proud London Councils, securing significant funding for charities, and offering pro bono support to LGBTIQA+ non-profit organizations. Laila’s influence also extends to academia, where she played a pivotal role in queering the ESOL curriculum in the UK, enhancing the educational experience for many.
In 2023, Laila's relentless commitment was recognised when she secured a spot on the National Diversity Power List Honours (Top 50), further establishing her as a leading figure in the fight for equality and acceptance. Her accolades, including being a finalist for Trans Ally of the Year and nominations for her work with UK Queer Arabs, underscore her impact within and beyond the LGBT+ community.
Laila's recognitions, such as her inclusion in the 2021 Top 100 Pride Power List and receiving the title of Stonewall Lesbian Role Model of the Year in 2020, reflect her unwavering dedication to her cause. Laila El-Metoui's exceptional contributions to diversity and inclusion, even while managing an invisible disability, are exemplary. Her ability to speak 10 languages and her expertise in various domains, including neurodiversity and mental health, make her a sought-after speaker for corporate and public sector audiences. Laila El-Metoui’s approach to delivering impactful talks and training sessions is tailored to meet the individual needs of her audience, showcasing her adaptability and dedication. Her work not only paves the way for a more inclusive society but also inspires others to join the movement towards acceptance and equality.
