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Matt Ellison is one of the UK’s most compelling and in-demand speakers on diversity, inclusion and personal transformation. A proud transgender man, Matt brings raw honesty, powerful storytelling and hard-won insight to every talk, offering audiences a deeply human lens through which to understand the experiences of marginalised communities. Known for challenging assumptions with empathy and humour, he connects across industries and generations – transforming how organisations approach inclusion, allyship, and identity. Whether speaking at global companies, universities or public institutions, Matt has earned a reputation as a speaker who leaves lasting impact, inspiring not only understanding, but action.
Matt’s career as a speaker and advocate began after his own transition in his late thirties – a process he describes not only as life-affirming, but deeply revealing of the systemic challenges trans people face. Determined to turn adversity into action, Matt became co-chair of FTM London, a leading support organisation for trans men, where he championed greater awareness and resources for the trans community. He went on to work extensively with healthcare providers, helping them shape more inclusive practices, and was invited to consult with the NHS on trans healthcare services. His expertise and candour have also seen him featured in high-profile media, including Channel 4’s groundbreaking documentary ‘Me and My Penis’, tackling issues of gender, body image, and mental health with vulnerability and truth.
Matt’s achievements include being invited to speak for some of the world’s most influential companies and institutions. His clients range from Microsoft, Disney, Rolls Royce, and eBay to Fidelity International, HM Courts and Tribunals, and the City of London Corporation. Audiences consistently describe Matt’s talks as ‘transformative’, ‘eye-opening’ and ‘utterly unforgettable’. His ability to break down complex legal and social issues, like the impact of the Supreme Court’s ruling on the Equality Act and sex-based rights, into clear, relatable insights makes him a vital voice in today’s conversations about inclusion. For many organisations, his sessions mark a pivotal moment in their journey towards more compassionate, forward-thinking cultures.
Matt’s speaking style is uniquely engaging. He draws from deeply personal experiences while expertly linking them to broader themes of resilience, authenticity, and cultural change. Whether delivering a keynote, facilitating a workshop, or advising senior leadership, Matt brings clarity to complex challenges and empowers people to bring their whole selves to work. With talks described as ‘more performance than presentation’, Matt’s narrative approach is both moving and thought-provoking – enriching minds, shifting perspectives, and, above all, encouraging courage.
“Matt hosted a brilliant and eye-opening session on what it means to be a trans man. I never thought about how problematic it can be to have gender specific uniforms and force someone who identifies as a man to wear a skirt. But it makes so much sense! Thank you Matt for making me realise what a difference the “little” things in life can make.”
“Matt’s ability to interweave his personal journey, into broader discussions around social rights, access and inclusivity, creates a space to reflect upon our own experience searching for a voice and identity and how that has affected the way in which we engage with, and are engaged by, the world around us. Yet, what stood out to me most about Matt’s session was, the empathetic warmth at its’ centre; that beyond necessary and important discussions around difference, we should never lose sight of our similarities. The desire to feel accepted, included, loved and safe is universal. And the way in which Matt shares his story not only allows you to feel included, but the pride with which he tells it, is genuinely inspiring.”
“Having never met someone transgender before, I was really looking forward to hearing Matt talk about his story. What I hadn’t prepared for was how much I wanted to learn about the transgender community after his talk. Since hearing Matt speak, I can’t stop reading and learning about this topic. Matt has the most unique ability to pass wisdom – without being preachy – in such a way that left us wanting to educate ourselves. Matt provides a sensitive yet influential argument about some hot topics relating to gender and diversity. I have no hesitation in recommending Matt.”
“Wanted to share how fantastic Matt was today! Matt shared a wonderful and insightful personal story. Along with sharing the situation in the UK and the importance of Transgender Day of Remembrance. His storytelling ability was incredibly insightful and captivating! The audience was incredibly grateful and have had several people reach out to share how wonderful it was to hear Matt’s story and how eye-opening it was! I’d highly recommend Matt as a speaker, his ability to connect with the audience and share his story with such openness truly leads to change in people!”
“Matt was great! The event ran smoothly and the presentation and information were both educational and engaging. The Q&A session was very active and I loved that Matt openly encouraged our audience to ask anything and reiterated it was a safe space. Would absolutely recommend him!”
“Thank you so much. Such a touching and illuminating discussion. I feel very lucky to have been there to hear your story. Every workplace needs this presentation.”
“Matt Ellison speaks with authenticity and truth. He shares his knowledge and life experiences with candour and emotionally connects everyone in the room in an instant. I learn something from Matt every time I hear him speak!”
“Pandemic or no pandemic, nothing can stop our Kentucky Fried pride celebrations. To get the party started Matt Ellison joined us virtually to share his personal journey and experiences. Buckets of love and gratitude to Matt for such an inspiring, authentic session.”
The Diversity and Inclusion Speakers Agency has been one of the UK’s leading bureaus for inspirational figures of different races, genders, sexualities and abilities since 2020. We supply speakers for corporate and public events across the world, and cater to both in-person occasions and online webinars. Our roster includes athletes, psychologists, celebrities and more, to ensure that audiences of all industries receive tailored, impactful advice on diversity and inclusion.
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