Founder of Operation Black Vote, Chair of the UK Government Race Disparity Unit Advisory Group, Principal of Homerton College & Former Commissioner for the Equality & Human Rights Commission

Lord Simon Woolley is a leading political and equalities campaigner, best known as the founder of Operation Black Vote and one of the UK’s most influential voices on race equality. A Crossbench member of the House of Lords and Principal of Homerton College, Cambridge, he has dedicated his career to tackling democratic deficits and racial disparities across health, education and employment. Knighted in 2019 for his services to race equality, Simon continues to inspire audiences with his work driving change, building inclusive leadership and ensuring underrepresented communities have a powerful voice in society.

Simon’s career has been defined by his commitment to political participation, racial equality and social justice. In 1996, he founded Operation Black Vote, a pioneering initiative that has worked to address the democratic deficit faced by Black and minority ethnic communities while also challenging inequalities in health, education and employment. His impact has been felt at the highest levels of government, serving as Commissioner for the Equality and Human Rights Commission and later as Chair of the UK Government’s Race Disparity Unit Advisory Group. Through these roles, Simon helped to significantly increase the representation of Black and minority ethnic MPs in Parliament, transforming the political landscape.

Beyond government, he has also served as a trustee of Police Now and as a member of the Lord’s Youth Unemployment Committee, highlighting his commitment to tackling inequality across multiple sectors. In 2021, he was appointed Principal of Homerton College, Cambridge, making history as the first Black man to lead an Oxbridge college. Recognised with an honorary doctorate from the University of Westminster and celebrated in the Powerlist of most influential figures in the UK, Simon’s career stands as a testament to his ability to drive systemic change and create opportunities for marginalised voices.

Simon is the author of ‘Soar: My Journey from Council Estate to the House of Lords‘, a memoir published in 2022 that traces his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the UK’s most influential campaigners and a member of the House of Lords. Alongside his book, his commentary has appeared in outlets such as The Guardian, The Independent and The Telegraph, and he is a familiar presence on the BBC, ITV and Channel 4. Through his writing and media appearances, Simon continues to shape public debate on race, representation and equality, ensuring his voice reaches both policymakers and the wider public.

Why Hire Lord Simon Woolley?

Audiences book Simon for his unmatched ability to blend personal experience with decades of national leadership in race equality. From founding Operation Black Vote to serving as Principal of Homerton College, he has consistently broken new ground and created opportunities for underrepresented communities. His work with the Equality and Human Rights Commission and the Race Disparity Unit Advisory Group led to transformational change in political representation, helping to increase the number of Black and minority ethnic MPs from single figures to dozens.

Recognised with a knighthood and later a Peerage, Simon’s achievements are a testament to his lifelong fight for justice and inclusion. His memoir adds further depth to his story, inspiring audiences with lessons in resilience and leadership. Known for his powerful and passionate delivery, Simon leaves audiences motivated to rethink inequality and take meaningful steps towards lasting change.

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