Leila McKenzie-Delis stands at the forefront of the diversity movement in business, her journey shaped by the uniqueness of her identity and her early experiences. Born in Hong Kong and adopted by white British parents, her childhood in Harrogate, Yorkshire was a navigating of contrasts—an adopted daughter in a predominantly white community, wrestling with the complexities of race and belonging before she even knew the terms for them. These formative experiences instilled in her a passionate commitment to creating boardrooms that reflect the world’s diversity, and it seems her determination is rooted in the hurdles she faced rather than overshadowed by them.

Founding DIAL Global was not without its struggles. Leila recounts the hardship of gaining momentum, often questioning whether her vision would amount to more than an ambitious dream. Yet, as DIAL began to attract notable leaders—politicians and CEOs alike—her initiatives toward inclusion sparked significant conversations, slowly turning the tide in an industry that has far too often left diversity at the doorstep.

As a dyslexic mother, Leila carries with her the weight of personal challenges, labeling her condition a ‘superpower’ that fuels her resilience and innovative thinking. With her eyes set on systemic change, she advocates for a broad spectrum of diversity, emphasizing that tackling these multifaceted issues is imperative for any lasting impact. Her narrative hums with the understanding that progress comes incrementally, requiring consistent action from employers to bridge gaps in equity.

Her role as a public speaker and thought leader has put her in rooms filled with powerful discussions, yet the quiet moments reflect a woman still grappling with the balance of ambition and motherhood. In a world that often dismisses the notion of having it all, Leila embraces the chaos of her journey, reminding us that the need for authentic connection and understanding should resonate throughout every facet of our lives.