Founder of Kanea Consulting, Chief AI Learning & Transformation Officer at Anaiya Group Ltd, Former Mayor of Folkestone & Professional Development Lead for STEM Learning

Abena Akuffo-Kelly is a respected leadership coach, culture change strategist and public sector leader recognised for her work in education, diversity and organisational transformation. As the Founder and Director of Kanea Consulting and Chief AI Learning & Transformation Officer at Anaiya Group Ltd, Abena helps organisations navigate leadership development, inclusive workplace culture and the evolving impact of artificial intelligence on learning and performance. She is also widely recognised for her public service, having served as Mayor of Folkestone and Chair of Folkestone and Hythe District Council. Combining experience across education, politics and consultancy, Abena has become a trusted voice on inclusive leadership, anti-racism and organisational change.

Abena began her career in education, spending more than 15 years as a computer science teacher before progressing into senior leadership as an Associate Assistant Head. Her passion for equality and educational improvement led to a series of influential advisory and consultancy positions. In 2022, she became Professional Development Lead for STEM Learning and also served as an Advisor and Independent Chair for Kent Police. The same year, she founded Kanea Consulting and Repairs Together, using both organisations to champion leadership development and community empowerment. In 2023, Abena expanded her influence further as a Political Leadership Trainer for the Labour Women’s Network, an Anti-Racist Schools Award Coach at Leeds Beckett University and an Associate Facilitator for Leaders Plus. Alongside her consultancy work, she has held significant civic leadership positions, including District Councillor, Chair of Folkestone and Hythe District Council and later Mayor of Folkestone.

Alongside her professional achievements, Abena has earned recognition for her impact in diversity and leadership. She was nominated for the WeAreTheCity Rising Star Award in the Diversity category and was a finalist in the Kent Women in Business Awards. In 2025, she joined the Executive Committee of the Fabian Women’s Network while simultaneously chairing both the Overview & Scrutiny Committee and the Finance & Performance Committee at Folkestone and Hythe District Council. Her work with organisations such as WI-HER, STEM Learning and the Association for Science Education reflects her commitment to inclusive growth, educational opportunity and equitable leadership.

Today, Abena is recognised for helping leaders and organisations create meaningful cultural change. Drawing upon experience across education, politics, AI transformation and community leadership, she delivers practical strategies that inspire collaboration, resilience and inclusion. Her ability to connect leadership theory with real-world experience makes her a compelling speaker for conferences, corporate events and public sector forums focused on future leadership, diversity and organisational transformation.

Why Hire Abena Akuffo-Kelly?

Abena Akuffo-Kelly is hired as a speaker for her powerful insight into leadership, workplace culture and inclusive transformation. Combining experience as a former Mayor, senior educator and AI learning strategist, she delivers engaging talks that blend practical leadership tools with authentic lived experience. Abena is particularly valued for her expertise in diversity, anti-racist education and empowering women in leadership. Her work with organisations including Leaders Plus, WI-HER and the Labour Women’s Network demonstrates her ability to inspire audiences across sectors, while her thought leadership on AI and cultural change positions her at the forefront of future-focused organisational development.