In recent years, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) became a central focus across industries, not only as a compliance measure but as a way to foster more representative, welcoming cultures.

Today, the conversation is evolving once again. With shifting social dynamics and organizational priorities, many companies are moving away from “DEI as a program” toward a more integrated approach centered on belonging, authentic leadership, and human connection.

The opportunity now is to embed inclusion not as an initiative, but as an everyday leadership practice — woven through how leaders show up, how teams engage, and how company cultures evolve.

When this happens, events shift too, from compliance-driven sessions to powerful experiences that build trust, spark empathy, and create genuine connections between people.

The Shift: From “Initiative” to Leadership Practice

Leaders are recognizing that real inclusion can’t be mandated — it has to be modeled.
When leaders lead with authenticity, vulnerability, and curiosity, they create the kind of culture where people feel seen, valued, and connected.

This is why many forward-thinking event planners and organizations are turning to keynote speakers who embody this shift, helping audiences move beyond performative DEI to human-centered leadership that fosters true belonging.

How to Bring Human-Centered Inclusion to Your Events

Inclusion as Everyday Leadership, Not a Policy

Inclusion works best when it’s felt — not forced. Today’s best leaders model inclusion through humility, empathy, and openness, which in turn creates cultures of trust and connection.

When events focus on these qualities, they naturally foster a sense of belonging across all audiences.

Speaker Suggestion: Lisa Walden

Lisa Walden helps leaders and teams thrive in a rapidly evolving workforce. Through her keynotes on generational leadership, culture, and the future of work, she empowers leaders to foster trust, build authentic relationships, and create inclusive cultures where everyone can contribute.

Representation Through Real, Honest Storytelling

Representation today is about whose stories are heard — and how those stories build bridges.

Rather than simply featuring identity-based representation, leading organizations are seeking speakers who can share personal journeys, challenge assumptions, and foster deeper understanding through honest, human-centered storytelling.

Speaker Suggestion: Risha Grant

Risha Grant is a globally recognized expert on belonging and bias. Her raw, honest approach to DEI breaks down barriers and sparks real conversations. Through humor and storytelling, she helps audiences recognize bias, foster empathy, and create workplaces where everyone feels like they truly belong.

Global Empathy and Connection Through Shared Experience

At its heart, inclusion is about expanding perspectives and finding common ground. Global storytelling is a powerful way to help audiences develop empathy — which fuels more connected leadership.

Speaker Suggestion: Chris Bashinelli

Chris Bashinelli’s global storytelling takes audiences beyond their own experiences, fostering greater empathy and human connection. His keynotes help leaders embrace diversity, understand different worldviews, and build stronger, more connected cultures — across industries and generations.

Belonging Through Energy and Shared Moments

Ultimately, events that create a sense of belonging leave lasting impact.

By designing experiences that invite participation, encourage vulnerability, and celebrate shared humanity, you create an environment where people don’t just attend — they connect.

Speaker Suggestion: Juan Bendana

Juan Bendana brings contagious energy and authenticity to every stage. His interactive sessions inspire leaders and employees alike to show up with courage, empathy, and openness — creating cultures of belonging where everyone feels valued.

The Takeaway: Belonging Starts With Leadership

As the conversation moves from DEI policies to inclusive leadership and human connection, organizations have the opportunity to design events that reflect this shift:

✅ Events that foster real empathy
✅ Leaders who model authentic inclusion
✅ Speakers who inspire meaningful connection

Inclusion isn’t about checking boxes anymore — it’s about cultivating experiences where everyone feels valued and connected. And that begins with the leadership mindset you bring to your organization and your events.

Looking to create more meaningful, human-centered experiences?

Bring one of our many keynote speakers focused on authentic leadership, belonging, and human connection to your next event — and transform the way your audience feels, connects, and leads.