Professor Patrick Vernon OBE

Patrick Vernon is a historian, cultural genealogist, campaigner, filmmaker and public leader whose work has made a significant contribution to racial equality, Black British history and public life. A Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and the Imperial War Museum, Patrick combines historical research with advocacy and leadership to bring overlooked stories into public consciousness. Recognised for his sustained commitment to equality and social change, he is hired as an inspirational leadership speaker to explore inclusive leadership, cultural identity, representation and how individuals can turn purpose into meaningful action.

Patrick has developed a distinctive career spanning history, healthcare, media and community advocacy. As a cultural genealogist and travel writer, he explores Black diasporic history, memory and identity through journeys across Africa, the Caribbean, Europe and the United States, combining archival research, oral histories and DNA evidence to uncover hidden narratives. He founded Every Generation Media and co-founded the influential 100 Great Black Britons campaign, helping to increase awareness and recognition of Black contributions to British history. His filmmaking work has included documentaries such as A Charmed Life and Speak Out and Stand Firm, further demonstrating his commitment to preserving and communicating important social and cultural histories.

Patrick’s leadership has extended across healthcare, education and national campaigning. He played a leading role in the campaign that resulted in the establishment of National Windrush Day in 2018 and was included in the Black Powerlist from 2020 to 2025, alongside being recognised among British Vogue’s Top 20 Campaigners. He served as Chair of NHS Birmingham and Solihull Integrated Care Board between 2023 and 2025 and has held leadership positions including Chair of the Walsall Together Partnership Board and Pro-Chancellor for Health at the University of Wolverhampton. Awarded an OBE for services to health equality, Patrick has also received the Sheila McKechnie Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award and, in 2026, was appointed a Knight Bachelor for services to racial equality.

Patrick is hired as an inspirational leadership speaker because his career demonstrates how sustained leadership, advocacy and collaboration can deliver meaningful societal change. Drawing on decades of experience across public services, history and campaigning, he speaks with authority about racial equality, inclusive leadership, identity and creating lasting change within institutions and communities. As a Winston Churchill Fellow and Clore Cultural Leadership Fellow, Patrick brings both extensive expertise and lived professional experience to his presentations, inspiring audiences to challenge established thinking, amplify overlooked voices and use their own influence to create positive change.