International Women's Day
- Award-winning broadcast journalist and diversity expert
- Royal Commentator and host of The Royal Dress Code
- TEDx speaker on race, representation and belonging in media
Afua Hagan is a award-winning journalist and broadcaster, and one of the leading voices on media, race and social mobility in Britain today.
Currently Royal Commentator for CTV News, Senior International Correspondent for News Central Africa and Managing Editor of Black Business Magazine, Afua is a familiar face on ITV, BBC, Sky News, CNN and NBC. Her 2024 TEDx Talk, "Too Dark for Daytime TV," drew wide attention for its frank examination of race and representation in British media.
Drawing on her own journey from Glasgow to the front lines of international broadcasting, Afua brings lived experience to conversations that many organisations find difficult to start. She has spoken and moderated for organisations including Retail Week, the NHS, HSBC, Compare the Market, Inmarsat, and Cambridgeshire Police. Recognised for her contributions to broadcasting, she has received honours from the Black Women in Business Awards and the Women4Africa Awards. Her journalism background makes her a versatile choice for speaking, event hosting and moderation.
Afua translates complex questions about class, race and access into practical guidance that leaders and teams can act on. Audiences leave with a clearer understanding of what genuine inclusion looks like beyond hiring targets, sharper tools for communicating across difference, and a more honest assessment of how background and bias shape opportunity inside their own organisations.
Book Afua to give your audience the insight and honesty needed to move inclusion from policy to practice.
Afua's showreel and videos
Topics, sessions and talks
Afua Hagan shares her personal journey as a broadcaster and journalist, reflecting on the challenges faced as a Black woman in the aftermath of 2020. She discusses the complexities of being offered platforms for dialogue on diversity and inclusion, often feeling like a token rather than a valued journalist. Hagan emphasises that true inclusivity goes beyond hiring practices; it requires Black voices in decision-making roles. Attendees will learn about the importance of genuine inclusivity in organisations.
On Race, Ethnicity and Culture
In her talk, Afua Hagan explores the distinctions between race, ethnicity, and culture, emphasising their impact on interpersonal interactions. She clarifies that while these terms are often used interchangeably, they have unique meanings. Hagan argues that understanding these differences reveals the irrationality of racism, which is socially constructed rather than biologically valid. Attendees will learn that despite societal classifications, humans share a remarkable genetic similarity, highlighting our commonalities over differences.
Inclusivity in the Workplace
Afua Hagan emphasises the growing importance of workplace diversity, especially since 2020. She discusses how a diverse workforce is essential for organisational success and employee satisfaction, while also advocating for social improvements. Hagan distinguishes between inherent diversity, such as race and gender, and acquired diversity, which includes experiences and cultural backgrounds. Attendees will learn about the significant benefits of workplace diversity and effective strategies to foster unity and harmony within their teams.
Effective Communication To Bring About Real Change
Afua Hagan explains the importance of communicating disagreement with others to avoid being perceived as complicit in their racist beliefs. She highlights that effective communication begins with self-reflection and recognising our own biases. Rather than succumbing to guilt, attendees will learn to confront their prejudices and understand how these internal biases hinder their ability to act justly. Ultimately, the session aims to empower individuals to initiate meaningful change within themselves and their communities.
Afua Hagan considers the critical role of social mobility in fostering a fair and just society. She highlights how social mobility provides equal opportunities for individuals to succeed, encouraging hard work, skill acquisition, and education. By promoting diversity and representation, social mobility leads to innovation and societal progress. Additionally, it positively impacts the economy by creating a productive workforce and reducing income inequality. Attendees will learn how valuing social mobility can empower individuals and enhance societal growth.
Why we recommend booking Afua
Drawing on her own journey and a journalism career that spans ITV, Sky News, and CNN, Afua Hagan brings rare sharpness to conversations on diversity, inclusion, and social mobility. Charismatic and thought-provoking, she is as strong in a hosted chair or on a panel as she is on stage.
She was a really lively, fun host who brought a lot of humour and joy to the panels she chaired. I loved working with her.
We are extremely happy with everything; Afua's talk was informative and engaging. She captivated the audience throughout and it was an absolute pleasure to host her.
I just wanted to drop a quick note to say how fabulous Afua was. She really brought a fresh perspective, energy and positivity to the session.
