Isabel Hilton OBE is a globally renowned journalist, broadcaster, and environmental advocate whose career is a testament to excellence in journalism and thought leadership. Over the past four decades, Isabel has reported from Latin America, China, Europe, Africa, and South Asia, with her work featured in prestigious publications such as The New Yorker, The Guardian, The Independent, and the Financial Times. A passionate storyteller and global expert, Isabel’s insights into climate change, international relations, and cross-cultural dialogue make her an inspiring and impactful motivational speaker.
Isabel’s journey began with an academic foundation in Chinese Language and Literature at The University of Edinburgh, followed by advanced studies at Beijing Languages Institute and Fudan University in Shanghai. As one of the first western students in post-Cultural Revolution China, she gained invaluable insights into the region, shaping her expertise in international affairs. Her early career highlights include serving as Latin America Editor and European Affairs Editor for The Independent, where she covered pivotal geopolitical events, and contributing as a staff writer at The New Yorker, cementing her reputation as a global journalist.
One of Isabel’s most remarkable achievements is founding China Dialogue in 2006, a groundbreaking bilingual platform addressing climate change and environmental issues. This initiative has since grown into a global network with projects such as The Third Pole, Diálogo Chino, and China Dialogue Ocean, fostering critical discussions on sustainability worldwide. Isabel’s contributions to environmental awareness and cross-cultural understanding earned her the prestigious Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2009. Currently, she serves as Co-Chair of The Bureau of Investigative Journalism, Chair of the Centre for Investigative Journalism, and Non-Executive Director at E3G, a leading climate policy think tank.
Audiences should hire Isabel for her unparalleled expertise and ability to translate complex global issues into compelling narratives. From climate change and China’s global influence to investigative journalism and leadership, Isabel’s talks resonate deeply, inspiring audiences to engage with critical challenges and take meaningful action. She is a speaker who leaves a lasting impact.
