Tim Soutphommasane Keynote Speaker

Professor Tim Soutphommasane is a political philosopher, human rights leader and public commentator. As the University of Oxford’s inaugural Chief Diversity Officer, Tim spearheads the 900-year-old institution’s strategy on equality, diversity, and inclusion. An acclaimed author, Soutphommasane has written extensively on patriotism, multiculturalism, and human rights. His work has featured in publications including the New York Times, Financial Times, CNN and the BBC.

As Australia’s Race Discrimination Commissioner (2013-18), Tim was at the forefront of Australia’s national campaigns against racial discrimination. During a period marked by heated debates over race and freedom of speech, he was a respected, independent voice for racial equality and multiculturalism.

Soutphommasane’s scholarly work focuses on issues of identity, culture, and citizenship. He is the author of five books: On Hate (2019), I’m Not Racist But… (2015), Don’t Go Back To Where You Came From (2012), The Virtuous Citizen (2012), and Reclaiming Patriotism (2009). He has also been a regular columnist with the Sydney Morning Herald, the Age and the Australian newspapers, and presented the award-winning series, Mongrel Nation, on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s Radio National.

As a speaker, Soutphommasane is renowned for his ability to dissect and discuss complex societal issues with clarity and insight. He addresses topics such as “Diversity and Culture Wars,” exploring the challenges and strategies for navigating the murky waters of diversity and inclusion without succumbing to the divisive pitfalls of culture wars. Additionally, he speaks on “Young People These Days,” offering insights into the expectations and contributions of Generation Z, and “Culture Change and Leadership,” where he examines the pivotal role of cultural values in organizational success.

Tim’s work on diversity, race and patriotism has shaped public debates, and guided organisations in cultural change. Drawing upon his work spanning academia, government and media, he is a thought-provoking speaker on contemporary issues.