Chief Executive Officer of the Diana Award, the First British National To Receive the Martin Luther King Award & Has Board Positions at Comic Relief, the BBC Appeals Advisory Committee & Generation Change

Tessy Ojo CBE is an award-winning civil justice advocate and third-sector leader, best known as the Chief Executive Officer of the Diana Award, the living legacy to Princess Diana. Under her leadership, the charity has expanded its reach and impact, empowering young people in the UK and internationally. Tessy is also celebrated as the first British national to receive the Martin Luther King Award, a recognition of her tireless commitment to equality, youth empowerment and social justice.

Tessy brings more than 25 years of leadership experience across both the private and charitable sectors. She began her career at IBM as a systems analyst before moving into roles within the retail sector. In 2006, she joined the Diana Award as Head of Finance and Operations, later becoming Chief Executive in 2012. Since then, she has overseen the charity’s remarkable growth, strengthening its long-term sustainability and ensuring it delivers meaningful support to young people worldwide. Alongside this role, Tessy chairs the £70 million #iwill Leadership Board, which drives youth social action programmes across the UK.

Her governance expertise extends further, with board positions at Comic Relief, the BBC Appeals Advisory Committee, and Generation Change, as well as previous contributions to the UK Council for Child Internet Safety and the Royal Taskforce on Cyberbullying. Tessy’s work reflects a deep commitment to racial and gender equality, as well as to improving opportunities for young people in challenging circumstances. Her career journey demonstrates both strategic leadership and a passion for social justice, making her an influential figure in the third sector and a trusted advisor to government, charities and corporate organisations alike.

Tessy shares her perspectives widely through national media and public speaking. She is a regular contributor to television and public debate, often appearing on ITV’s Good Morning Britain to discuss issues around young people, diversity and inclusion. Beyond her media presence, she has written articles and thought pieces on social change and youth empowerment. Tessy is also in the process of writing her first book, which will further expand on her experiences and insights as a leader and advocate for justice, equality and the next generation.

Why Hire Tessy Ojo?

Audiences book Tessy because of her rare ability to combine passion for social justice with deep expertise in leadership and equality. Her influence extends across major organisations, where she serves on boards such as Comic Relief and the BBC Appeals Advisory Committee, and she has advised national taskforces on online safety and cyberbullying. Recognition for her work includes a CBE for services to children and young people, the Inspirational Woman of the Year award, and several honours celebrating her leadership.

A regular commentator on television, she brings clarity and authenticity to discussions on diversity, inclusion and youth empowerment. With her warm and articulate style, Tessy connects powerfully with corporate, charitable and public audiences, ensuring her sessions not only inspire but also drive meaningful action.

To book Tessy to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.