Ruth Ibegbuna

Bio

Dr. Ruth Ibegbuna: Inspiring Speaker, Visionary Leader, and Changemaker Ruth Ibegbuna began her professional journey as a teacher in state schools across Bradford and Manchester. Today, she is one of the UK’s most influential social entrepreneurs, a trailblazing changemaker, and the driving force behind multiple transformative initiatives that inspire hope, inclusion, and leadership. As the founder of The Roots Programme, Ruth responded to the divisive aftermath of the 2016 Brexit Referendum by bridging divides to bring together individuals from vastly different communities, fostering connections, embracing diversity, and cultivating greater compassion. The programme also supports state and private school students to connect and build a more hopeful future for the UK. Ruth is the founder and CEO of Rekindle School, a supplementary school with sites in Manchester and London, where she works with her team to empower young critical thinkers from working-class communities. She is currently developing the national SPARK programme, set to launch in 2025, which will support community changemakers across the UK outside of London. Ruth also founded and was CEO for 11 years of RECLAIM, a Manchester-based charity supporting working-class young people into leadership positions. She is a powerful speaker and gifted storyteller who inspires others by sharing her experience of overcoming significant challenges. Her talks resonate with audiences by combining honesty, resilience, and an uplifting, strengths-based approach. Ruth has inspired clients from many world-leading and prestigious organisations such as Google, Amnesty International, RSA, PwC, Virgin Money Foundation, and The International School of Geneva. In 2019, Ruth set up Northern Soul to provide training, development, and support for those seeking greater social justice. Recognised for her impact, Ruth is a Clore Social Fellow, an Ashoka UK Fellow, and was listed by The Sunday Times as one of the 500 most influential people in the UK, as well as one of the top six female changemakers internationally by Virgin. She has also authored a book titled 'On Youth' to showcase the stories of young people in Manchester and was awarded a Doctorate in Education from Manchester Metropolitan University in 2017.