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Speaker & former Google DEI leader

Wema Hoover

Transform workplace cultures with Wema Hoover, speaker and former Google Global Head of DEI. Wema helps Fortune 500 companies implement diversity strategies, unconscious bias training, and inclusive leadership practices, leveraging global expertise across four continents.

Trusted by MediaAlpha, DoubleLine, Opal Group

Wema Hoover, Speaker | DEI Expert & Leadership Coach
Wema Hoover

Wema Hoover

New York City, United States

Typical fee range

$26k–50k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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New York City, United States

Starting from

$26k–50k

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+44 203 835 2929

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Wema Hoover's biography

At a glance

  • Former Google Global Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
  • A trusted C-Suite and board-level advisor to multinational companies
  • Has held senior leadership roles at Pfizer, Sanofi, and Bristol-Myers Squibb
Wema Hoover, former Google Global Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, has dedicated her career to transforming corporate cultures and driving results. She is a recognised thought leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), organisational development, authentic leadership, and women’s empowerment. Wema uses her experiences as a Black woman and her extensive background in DEI to help organisations realise the full potential of diversity and inclusion. Before establishing her consultancy, Wema served as Google’s Global Head of DEI. She has advised Fortune 500 companies, including Pfizer, Sanofi, and Bristol-Myers Squibb, on global DEI initiatives. In these positions, she created Global Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Councils to enhance internal capabilities in areas such as belonging, unconscious bias, cultural competence, and global leadership. Wema's international experience includes living and working in the US, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, where she led diverse teams. In addition to her roles at major corporations, she has formed partnerships with organisations like the United Nations, the World Economic Forum, Mercer, and McKinsey to implement advanced HR, culture, CSR, and DEI practices. She was also a member of the Coqual (Center for Talent Innovation) Hidden Brain Drain Task Force, contributing to DEI research across global markets, including China, India, and the US. Wema is a National Member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and is frequently invited to speak on DEI topics. She is also an executive coach and holds a Master of Science in Human Resource Management and a Master’s-level Certificate in Organisational Change Management from New School University. Additionally, she serves on the board of Ten By Three, a nonprofit focused on reducing poverty through entrepreneur-driven growth and sustainable financial independence. Wema is an accomplished writer, having published articles on DEI, women’s empowerment, and racial equity in various publications, including Fast Company, Inc., Diversity Magazine, and NAMI. She is currently working on a book that explores her experiences and the benefits of diversity and inclusion.

Wema's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

Activating Inclusion To Drive Well-Being And Mental Health
In her keynote, Wema Hoover explores the pandemic's profound effects on employee well-being and mental health. She emphasises the importance of integrating inclusion, equity, and belonging to foster sustainable practices that enhance overall health. Attendees will gain insights into effective strategies for supporting their workforce, ultimately promoting a healthier and more inclusive workplace environment.
Unlocking The Value Of Diversity To Address Racial Injustice
In her session, Wema Hoover highlights the vital connection between emotional intelligence and inclusion. She explores practical strategies for leaders to enhance their EQ, foster inclusion, and promote equity to combat racial injustice within organisational culture. Wema also addresses unconscious bias, offering insights on how to identify, acknowledge, and overcome it, as well as methods to prevent its recurrence. Attendees will learn actionable approaches to create a more equitable and inclusive environment.
Maximizing The Female Potential In Your Organization
In her keynote presentation, Wema Hoover explores how organisations can harness the unique abilities and leadership qualities of women. She emphasises the importance of sponsorship, advocacy, and intentional inclusion to maximise female potential. Attendees will learn effective strategies to create a more inclusive workplace that empowers women, ultimately enhancing organisational performance and fostering a diverse talent pool.
Opening The Aperture: Building Diverse Talent Pipelines
In her keynote, Wema Hoover shares effective strategies for attracting, retaining, and developing diverse talent. She emphasises the importance of fostering cultures of belonging that enable diverse individuals to thrive within organisations. Attendees will learn actionable insights to enhance their talent pipelines and create inclusive environments that support the growth and success of all employees.
Reframing DEI: How Difference Can Make A Difference
In her keynote session, Wema Hoover explores how to leverage diversity to enhance organisational skills and foster inclusive practices. She highlights the importance of employee engagement, collaboration, and innovation while addressing unconscious bias and the creation of a culture of belonging. Attendees will learn strategies for developing cultural competence and effective global leadership, ultimately discovering how embracing differences can lead to significant organisational improvements.

Why we recommend booking Wema

Book Wema Hoover to inspire your team with her transformative insights on diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a former Google leader and global thought leader, she brings unparalleled expertise and lived experiences that drive real change. Elevate your organisation’s culture and unlock its true potential with her impactful message.

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Trusted by MediaAlpha, DoubleLine, Opal Group

Testimonials

Amazing presentation on systemic embedding of interventions and equity by Wema Hoover, GPHR.

Opal Group

Thank you Wema for your presentation today: Creating Connections Across Community, Culture and Customers. It was a powerful discussion that will help further our efforts to create an inclusive environment for our team members and business partners.

MediaAlpha

Wema delivered a wonderful session for our manager's retreat. Reframing Diversity, Equity & Inclusion was a great topic for our group, which encouraged more participation than we normally see. They all gave very positive feedback as well.

Director, DoubleLine

Director, DoubleLine

Featured Projects

Wema Hoover - “Diversity Secrets” podcast cover
Wema Hoover - "The Diversity Pivot” podcast cover
Wema Hoover - "All Inclusive” podcast cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Wema Hoover for my next event?
Email wema.hoover@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Wema's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.

What is Wema Hoover's speaking style like?
Wema delivers engaging, insightful presentations that foster participation and spark meaningful discussions on diversity, equity, and inclusion, empowering teams to create more inclusive environments and drive positive organisational change.

What topics does Wema Hoover specialise in?
Wema Hoover specialises in discussing diversity, equity, and inclusion, organisational development, women's empowerment and more.

What information do I need to provide to book a speaker?

To get the sharpest shortlist, share your event date, audience, format, key objectives, and budget. A rough idea is enough to start. The more context PepTalk has, the more precisely the team can match a speaker to your brief. Send it via getapeptalk.com.

Does PepTalk charge a booking fee?

There is no additional cost to you beyond the speaker's fee. PepTalk's service, from shortlist to on-the-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, the team can agree preferential rates with your procurement department. Email hello@getapeptalk.com to discuss.

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Booking a speaker with PepTalk starts with a short brief: your event, audience, date, budget, and format. Send it through getapeptalk.com or hello@getapeptalk.com and you'll get a shortlist within 24 hours. Once you choose, PepTalk handles contracts, fees, travel, and logistics end to end.

I need a last-minute speaker. Can PepTalk help?

Yes. PepTalk regularly handles last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, host, or comedian quickly, often within days. Availability narrows as the date nears, so get in touch as early as you can. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.

How much does it cost to book a speaker through PepTalk?

Speaker fees vary by profile, format, and location. In the UK and Europe, virtual keynotes typically start around GBP 2,000, with top in-person speakers reaching GBP 25,000+; in the US, fees run from about USD 5,000 to USD 100,000+. Share your budget at getapeptalk.com and we'll shortlist to fit.

Can I book a speaker who isn't listed on the PepTalk website?

Yes. If a speaker isn't listed, tell PepTalk their name and the team will approach them for you. The network extends well beyond the public roster, and PepTalk regularly books speakers who don't appear on the site. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with the name.

How quickly will I get a speaker shortlist?

You'll receive a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours of sharing your brief. Each suggestion comes with profiles, fees, and PepTalk's recommendation on the strongest fit. If you need options sooner for an urgent event, say so and the team will move faster. Start at getapeptalk.com.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a booking?

Most bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker and are set out clearly in the contract before you confirm, so there are no surprises. PepTalk's team supports you through any change. Contact hello@getapeptalk.com as soon as plans shift.

Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

How can I report an issue or make changes to an expert profile?

If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Can I book a speaker for a virtual or hybrid event?

Yes. Most PepTalk speakers deliver virtual and hybrid sessions with live Q&A, and virtual keynotes usually cost less than in-person because there is no travel. Tell us your platform and format and we'll match speakers experienced in online delivery. Start at getapeptalk.com.

How do I brief an insights speaker on my organisation's strategic context?

Share your organisation's top 3 strategic priorities, current challenges, and the audience's role in delivering them. A simple one-page brief works perfectly. PepTalk speakers use this context to tailor insights that feel genuinely relevant — making your event far more impactful.

Can event entertainers customise their act for my company or industry?

Yes! Most event entertainers are happy to tailor their act to your brand, industry, or theme. From weaving in company jokes to incorporating your branding into their performance, personalisation makes all the difference. PepTalk's entertainers specialise in bespoke experiences that feel made just for your audience.