Dr Yvonne Thompson

Dr Yvonne Thompson CBE is an award-winning business leader, communications strategist, and champion of diversity and inclusion. Originally from Guyana, South America, she has forged an extraordinary career spanning media, entrepreneurship, and public service. With over four decades of experience across a wide range of industries, she brings a unique global perspective on leadership, equality, and representation. Recognised for her trailblazing contributions to Black and minority enterprise, she has become one of the UK’s most respected voices on equity, inclusion, and women’s empowerment, making her an inspiring and authoritative choice as a speaker on diversity and inclusion.

Yvonne began her career in communications, advertising, and marketing after studying at the College of Distributive Trades. Her professional journey started at CBS Records (Sony Music) in 1975 as a Press Officer, where she built key industry relationships and championed diverse talent. In 1983, she founded ASAP Communications Ltd, one of the UK’s first Black-owned PR agencies, a bold move that established her as a pioneer for representation in business. Alongside her entrepreneurial pursuits, she became a founding member of Choice FM, the UK’s first Black music radio station, now known as Capital XTRA, and served as Music Editor for the nation’s first Black glossy magazine, Root. These ventures laid the foundations for a career devoted to amplifying underrepresented voices and promoting inclusive growth.

Her commitment to enterprise and equality has led to numerous leadership roles, including Chair of the African Caribbean Business Network, President of the European Federation of Black Women Business Owners, and Advisory Board Member for Fortysix. She has also served as Chairwoman of OKRE, Board Director at Punch Records, and Steering Committee Member for the Women’s Equality Party UK. Her achievements have been recognised with numerous honours, including a CBE for services to Black and ethnic minority business, the European Women of Achievement Award, and honorary doctorates from both London Metropolitan and Plymouth Universities.

Yvonne is regularly invited to speak at international conferences and has delivered over 150 talks for public and private organisations worldwide. Her expertise as an executive coach and her leadership of the WinTrade Global Women Entrepreneurs Network equip her with the insight and empathy to inspire action. Audiences hire her for her lived experience, authenticity, and proven record in shaping inclusive business cultures that drive real change.