Social Mobility Speakers
Social mobility refers to how people move within or between social levels in society. It describes changes in occupation, income, or social status across generations. In simple terms, it is the connection between a person’s job or income and that of their parents. A weaker connection indicates higher social mobility.
The concept was first introduced by Pitirim Sorokin, a Russian sociologist and political activist. He explained that no society is entirely open or entirely closed in terms of social movement.
Statistics show that children receiving free school meals achieve 1.7 grades lower at GCSE. Additionally, children from poorer backgrounds are, on average, nine months behind their wealthier peers. This highlights the growing importance of socioeconomic change.
The UK has one of the lowest social mobility rates among developed countries. Book a speaker to explore ways to create an environment where everyone can succeed, regardless of their background.
Tomi Popoola
Financial Inclusivity & Tech Visionary, UK Black Business Week Honouree & Former AWS Solutions Architect of the YearDean Forbes
CEO of Forterro & Named UK's Most Influential Black Person on the 2025 PowerlistAbigail Posner
Director of Creative Works at Google, Advocate for Diversity & Inclusion & Renowned AnthropologistKenny J. Anderson
Leading Expert in Inclusive Leadership, Founder of Kenny J Anderson LLC & Author of ‘Common Denominators for Success’ Trusted by Global ExecutivesMatthew Syed
Co-founder of Matthew Syed Consulting & Mindset Analytics Ltd, Best-selling author of seven books & renowned expert on growth mindset & cognitive diversity & named among HR’s ‘Top 30 Most Influential Thinkers’Dr. Dale Whelehan
CEO of 4 Day Week Global, Lecturer in Organisational Behaviour at UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School & Founder & Director of BehaviourDocDarren Burns
Timpson’s Diversity & Inclusion Leader, Champion of Inclusive Hiring & Social Mobility & Cambridge ScholarProfessor Emiliana Vegas
Global Champion for Inclusive Education, Harvard Professor & Leading Advisor to UNESCO, Brookings & The World BankMercedes Benson
Founder of SocialFixt Championing Black Creatives & International DJ Collaborating with Luxury BrandsAderonke Apata
LGBTIQ+ Asylum Advocate, Founder of African Rainbow Family & Black Leadership Programme Co-AuthorCharlie Whyman
Managing Director of TGIS Aviation, Former President of the Professional Speaking Association East Midlands & Creator of the OTTER Framework for Strategic MarketingThere are several types of social mobility. These include horizontal, vertical, upward, downward, inter-generational, and intra-generational mobility.
In today’s world, inequality often limits opportunities for those who are most disadvantaged. Therefore, it is vital to include social mobility in diversity and inclusion policies.
One effective way to promote inclusion is by inviting a social mobility speaker. They can explain this complex topic clearly and make it more accessible to everyone. Furthermore, such an initiative helps organisations understand the importance of breaking barriers and fostering equality.
