Jo Brand Keynote Speaker

Jo Brand is a British comedian, actress, writer and presenter. She is one of the UK’s most loved comedians and has entertained global audiences for over 30 years. As a speaker, she is known for her sharp wit and sarcastic humour while tackling issues such as feminism and mental health awareness.

Since 2014, Jo has been the presenter of The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice. She’s a longstanding regular panellist on Would I Lie to You?, QI and Have I Got News For You. She also presented Channel 5’s Jo Brand’s Cats & Kittens, streamed in the United States as Kitten Rescue.
Jo appeared on the sitcom Getting On for over three years, where she was a co-creator, co-writer and co-star. Other long-serving roles include shows such as Damned, Let’s Sing and Dance, Jo Brand Through the Cakehole, and Jo Brand’s Big Splash.

Jo is perhaps best known for her stand-up specials available for home viewing. The specials, which have been converted into VHS, DVD and CD, include A Load of Old Balls (2007), Jo Brand Live (2006), Barely Live (2003) and Live Again (2001).

Beginning her career in patient care, Jo served as a psychiatric nurse for over a decade before pursuing her true calling in comedy.

Along with her media prowess, Jo is also an accomplished author. Her publicised works include novels such as Born Lippy (2018), The More You ignore (2009), It’s Different for Girls (2005), and Sorting Out Billy (2004). Her non-fiction works include A Load of Old Balls and two autobiographies, Look Back in Hunger (2009) and Can’t Stand Up for Sitting Down (2010).

With an illustrious career spanning more than three decades, Jo has received much acclaim and accolades. She holds four British Comedy Awards and one BAFTA in recognition of her contributions to the industry. She holds an honorary doctorate from the University of South Wales (formerly the University of Glamorgan) and Canterbury Christ Church University for her work as a mental health nurse.

Jo is passionate about raising awareness and funds for charity. She is an Alzheimer’s Society ambassador and an avid fundraiser for ActionAid, working tirelessly to reach those most vulnerable. In addition, she supports London Nightline, the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association, International Animal Rescue, and the National Self-Harm Network, and she chairs the Ectopic Pregnancy Trust.

Jo is an accomplished speaker who regularly takes to the stage at events worldwide. Her talks are always entertaining and include significant knowledge and guidance.