Aderonke Apata

Aderonke Apata is a multi-award-winning human rights activist, barrister (unregistered), and a dedicated advocate for LGBTIQ+ asylum seekers. Having endured a 13-year battle for asylum in the UK after fleeing Nigeria in 2004, she transformed her personal struggle into a mission to support others facing similar challenges. In 2014, she founded African Rainbow Family, a charity that provides essential support to LGBTIQ+ individuals seeking refuge. Aderonke’s journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Her expertise spans equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), leadership, and refugee rights, making her a sought-after speaker and trainer.

Aderonke pursued legal studies to strengthen her advocacy, completing her Bar Professional Training Course and earning a Master of Laws in 2021. In 2022, she was Called to the Bar of England and Wales, marking a significant milestone in her career. She co-authored and developed the Black Leadership Empowerment Programme (BLEP), an initiative designed to foster leadership, equality, and inclusivity, now integrated into The Open University Business School curriculum. Her contributions extend to academia, where she co-authored the Research Handbook on Asylum and Refugee Policy, providing critical insights into the intersections of gender, sexuality, and race in queer asylum claims.

Aderonke’s activism has earned her numerous accolades, including the LGBT Positive Role Model Award, Activist of the Year, and the Attitude Pride Award. She has been recognised by Amnesty International UK’s Suffragette Spirit Map of Britain, highlighting her impact on social justice. Her work has influenced policies and practices that support LGBTIQ+ asylum seekers, ensuring their rights are upheld. She has also played a pivotal role in campaigns such as Shutdown Yarl’s Wood Detention Centre, advocating for humane treatment of asylum seekers.

As a keynote speaker, Aderonke delivers powerful talks on EDI, leadership, refugee rights, and LGBTIQ+ inclusion. Her expertise has been sought at major events, including the Leigh Day Immigration Summit 2025. She provides training on charity management, unconscious bias, intersectionality, and psychological safety, equipping organisations with the tools to foster inclusivity. Through her work, Aderonke continues to inspire and drive meaningful change, ensuring that marginalised voices are heard and empowered.