Toni Kent

Toni is a powerhouse speaker who doesn’t just talk about social mobility—she redefines the conversation. As the founder of The Common Good Network, she has built a groundbreaking platform connecting service users, providers, corporate partners, and supporters to dismantle systemic barriers and drive meaningful change towards greater social equity.

With decades of experience feeding into her social mobility journey, including 10 years at Microsoft, Toni offers sharp, often unheard insights into one of the most complex and misunderstood areas of modern society. Her ability to blend lived experience with deep strategic expertise makes her an unforgettable voice on stage, challenging audiences to rethink what equity, inclusion, and opportunity really mean.

Toni has delivered keynote speeches for leading names across technology, finance, and law, inspiring organisations to take real action. Keynote clients have included the likes of Amazon Web Services, KPMG, Microsoft, PWC and Enterprise Group. She has also twice hosted the UK Social Mobility Awards, cementing her role as a trusted advocate and thought leader in this space.

A humorous and charismatic performer, Toni’s talks are bold, engaging, and thought-provoking, packed with fresh perspectives and actionable strategies. Whether addressing C-suite executives, policymakers, or changemakers, Toni leaves audiences with the tools—and the motivation—to build a more accessible and equitable future.

Toni’s Topics:

• Social Mobility 
• Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
• Resilience
• Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 

Toni’s Keynotes:

• The Truth About Social Mobility – From Barriers to Breakthroughs:

  Social mobility isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a lived experience. In this compelling keynote, Toni unpacks the hidden challenges faced by individuals from low socio-economic backgrounds and the structural barriers that make upward mobility far more complex than personal effort alone. She also touches on the important fact that we can’t talk about mobility without addressing social equity and that real progress requires a level playing field. Through powerful storytelling, Toni shares her own journey—navigating corporate spaces, breaking cycles, and how, through finding her voice, she’s helped thousands of people to feel less alone. This talk goes beyond inspiration, delivering clear, actionable strategies for organisations committed to driving meaningful change. And with a surprise finale, audiences leave engaged, entertained, and ready to take the next step.

• Storytelling for Success – The Power of Authentic Narratives: Your story isn’t just a personal journey—it’s a powerful tool for forging connections, unlocking opportunities, and propelling you toward the career and life that align with your strengths. In this inspiring session, Toni shares how she went from a council estate to the corporate world before founding The Common Good Network, demonstrating how authenticity and optimism create lasting impact. With an interactive audience element, attendees will receive an express masterclass in crafting and confidently sharing their own story, helping them to harness storytelling as a tool for personal and professional growth.
• It’s Too Risky! – The Power of Mindset Shifts: Fear is often the greatest barrier to growth—but what if you could reframe it as fuel for success? In this dynamic keynote, Toni empowers audiences to challenge limiting beliefs, embrace change with confidence, and take decisive action. Attendees will learn Toni’s C.H.A.N.G.E. method, a practical framework for overcoming doubt and making empowered decisions. With clear, memorable insights and an optional worksheet takeaway, this session equips professionals to turn uncertainty into momentum. 
• I Belong Here! – Overcoming Imposter Syndrome & Taking Up Space: Corporate spaces can feel intimidating—especially for those who don’t fit the traditional mold. Drawing from her own journey as a woman from a low socio-economic background, Toni delivers an empowering keynote on stepping into your worth and owning your ambitions with confidence. Whether it’s voicing career aspirations, negotiating opportunities, or challenging ingrained beliefs, this session equips attendees with the mindset shifts and practical steps needed to navigate any environment with certainty and presence.