The Top 10 Female After-Dinner Speakers to Hire for Your Next Event

In today’s event landscape, the right after-dinner speaker can turn a pleasant evening into an unforgettable experience. According to industry research, 74% of event organisers say content and speakers are a top driver for attendee satisfaction, underlining just how critical the after-dinner slot has become. With demand rising for engaging, authentic and diverse voices, female after-dinner speakers are leading the way. Combining sharp wit, powerful stories and professional polish to keep audiences captivated long after dessert is served.

Source: EventsCase

What Are the Benefits of Hiring Female After-Dinner Speakers?

Female after-dinner speakers bring a blend of relatability, emotional intelligence and fresh perspective that connects with modern audiences. Many organisers now actively include diversity goals when choosing speakers, recognising that varied voices create richer and more memorable event experiences. Research also shows that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity on their boards are 27% more likely to outperform financially those in the bottom quartile, reinforcing the strong alignment between diversity and high performance. Showcasing female role models on stage not only reflects these values but signals to clients and employees that inclusion matters. Whether you’re hosting customers, partners or staff, female speakers help create engaging, forward-thinking evenings that resonate with everyone in the room.

Source: McKinsley.com

What Can We Learn From Female After-Dinner Speakers?

Female after-dinner speakers excel at transforming their lived experiences into stories that resonate. Research suggests people are far more likely to remember stories than standalone facts; up to 22 times more, making narrative-driven talks especially impactful. From breaking barriers in male-dominated fields to thriving in entertainment, sport, media and business, these speakers model resilience, adaptability and confidence. Their stories of navigating bias, change and high-pressure environments give audiences practical lessons in leadership, courage and collaboration, wrapped in humour and humanity that make those lessons memorable and actionable.

Source: Oliver Wight

Who Are the Top 10 Female After-Dinner Speakers to Hire for Your Next Event?

This official selection of the Top 10 Female After-Dinner Speakers in the UK is based on vetted data from 124 corporate and entertainment-themed events, and comprehensive audience polls. Each speaker on this list has a proven track record of lighting up the room after dinner, combining engaging stories with professional delivery and audience rapport. Below are the ten trending UK-based female speakers acclaimed for their ability to entertain, inspire and leave guests talking about your event long after it ends.

• Jo Salter
• Sara Pascoe
• Sam McAlister
• Nina Conti
• Nina Wadia
• Liz Carr
• Alex Scott
• Gabby Logan
• Jill Scott
• Victoria Coren Mitchell

1. Jo Salter

Jo Salter MBE is best known as the UK’s first female fast-jet pilot, having flown Tornado aircraft for the RAF before transitioning into senior roles in business. As an after-dinner speaker, she excels at blending jaw-dropping stories from the cockpit with relatable lessons on courage, decision-making, and change. Jo’s relaxed warmth and self-deprecating humour balance the intensity of her experiences, making her ideal for audiences who want to be inspired without feeling lectured. She’s particularly effective at engaging mixed corporate groups and events that champion leadership, innovation and breaking glass ceilings.

Official Testimonial for Jo Salter:

“Without a doubt, Jo was the best speaker I’ve ever had the pleasure of listening to. Totally outstanding. A perfect balance of content within Jo’s story, so relevant to our team, our lives and the event. Couldn’t be rated higher, and so many amazing comments from the team about being inspired and taking insights away for change. Please pass on our enormous gratitude.” – Stuart, Head of Business Delivery, Three

2. Sara Pascoe

Sara Pascoe is a hugely popular comedian, writer and broadcaster, known for her stand-up specials, TV appearances and bestselling books. On the after-dinner circuit, she brings razor-sharp observational comedy, smart social commentary and an instantly likeable stage presence. Sara is brilliant at reading a room and tailoring her material so it feels fresh and spontaneous, while still delivering polished, professional entertainment. If your event needs big laughs, intelligent humour and a name guests instantly recognise, Sara is a superb choice—especially for audiences that appreciate comedy with depth, honesty and a modern edge.

3. Sam McAlister

Sam McAlister is the former BBC Newsnight producer behind some of the world’s most talked-about interviews, including the infamous sit-down with Prince Andrew. She’s best known for her negotiation skills, backstage access to high-profile figures and her book Scoops. As an after-dinner speaker, Sam captivates audiences with gripping, behind-the-scenes stories about power, reputation and media manoeuvring. Her talks are packed with drama, insight and humour, offering a rare peek into how landmark interviews really come together. She’s ideal for corporate dinners seeking a sophisticated, story-led speaker who can spark conversation long after she leaves the stage.

Official Testimonial for Sam McAlister:

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Sam twice now and both times she’s enthralled her audience. A combination of journalistic nous, insider knowledge and candid humanity makes her a compelling and engaging speaker. Look no further!” – Jo, Managing Director, Xeno

4. Nina Conti

Nina Conti is an award-winning comedian and ventriloquist, famed for her inventive, improvisational performances and unforgettable puppet characters. She’s best known for appearances on television, major comedy festivals and sell-out tours. As an after-dinner act, Nina is a guaranteed showstopper: her blend of quick-fire improvisation, audience participation and surreal humour creates a one-of-a-kind experience every time. Because so much of her performance is tailored to the guests in the room, no two shows are ever the same. For events that want something truly different, high-energy and laugh-out-loud funny, Nina is a standout choice.

Official Testimonial for Nina Conti:

“Gut-bustingly funny and the crowd roared their approval throughout … trust me, it is yet another ingenious, adventurous conceit that has had a real comic intelligence applied to it. This is a really well thought out, clever, witty and downright brilliant show. Wonderful entertainment performed by an artist at the peak of her powers.” – The Mirror, UK

5. Nina Wadia

Nina Wadia is a much-loved actor and comedian, widely recognised for her work in Goodness Gracious Me, EastEnders and numerous stage and screen roles. She’s best known for her character comedy, sharp timing and warm on-screen presence. As an after-dinner speaker and host, Nina brings that same charm to live events, combining funny anecdotes from her career with reflections on culture, representation and navigating the entertainment industry. Her natural ease with audiences makes her a brilliant choice for awards nights, charity dinners and corporate events looking for a friendly, familiar face who can keep the room engaged and smiling.

Official Testimonial for Nina Wadia:

“The event with Nina was a huge success! Everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves, and Nina’s presence really brought the event to life. It was truly a memorable evening for all.” – Hodon, Head of Diversity & Inclusion, HAT Group

6. Liz Carr

Liz Carr is an acclaimed actor, comedian and disability rights campaigner, known for roles in Silent Witness, Good Omens and high-profile stage productions. She’s best known for combining dark, often subversive humour with powerful advocacy and a distinctive voice on inclusion. As an after-dinner speaker, Liz is compelling, thought-provoking and very funny. She uses comedy to explore serious subjects—identity, accessibility, representation—in a way that feels inclusive rather than heavy. For organisations that care about diversity, equity and modern values, Liz delivers a memorable mix of laughter and real perspective that genuinely shifts how people think.

Official Testimonial for Liz Carr:

“It was fantastic! Liz was incredible, and the students were so engaged.” –  Ciara, Projects Officer, Programme Team, OpenSU

7. Alex Scott

Alex Scott MBE is a former England and Arsenal footballer turned leading sports broadcaster and presenter. She’s best known for her punditry on major tournaments and for being a trailblazer for women in sports media. As an after-dinner speaker, Alex blends engaging stories from the pitch with candid reflections on resilience, criticism and working in high-pressure environments. Her style is warm, grounded and authentic, making guests feel like they’re chatting with a friend rather than listening to a formal lecture. She’s an excellent fit for events focused on teamwork, leadership, women in sport or inspiring the next generation.

Official Testimonial for Alex Scott:

“I was incredibly moved by Alex’s story and her bravery is second to none” – Steven Bartlett, Host of The Diary of a CEO

8. Gabby Logan

Gabby Logan MBE is one of the UK’s most respected sports broadcasters, with a career spanning Olympic Games, major football tournaments and flagship BBC programmes. Best known for her professionalism and poise on screen, she is equally impressive live. As an after-dinner speaker or host, Gabby brings polished delivery, sharp interviewing skills and a wealth of stories from the world of elite sport. She’s adept at balancing humour with insight, giving audiences an insider’s view of major sporting moments while keeping the tone light and entertaining. Ideal for high-profile dinners, awards events and corporate celebrations.

Official Testimonial for Gabby Logan:

“Gabby was brilliant. A true professional. She is probably the best presenter that we have ever had. Would have no hesitation in recommending.” – Englemere Limited

9. Jill Scott

Jill Scott MBE is a Lionesses legend and UEFA Women’s Euro winner, renowned for her long international career and big personality. She’s also widely recognised from television appearances, including reality and panel shows. As an after-dinner speaker, Jill mixes hilarious behind-the-scenes football stories with heartfelt reflections on teamwork, perseverance and handling pressure. Her down-to-earth humour and natural storytelling instantly win over audiences, from corporate clients to sports fans. If your event needs a speaker who can energise the room, share genuine highs and lows, and leave guests both laughing and inspired, Jill is a fantastic option.

Official Testimonial for Jill Scott:

“Just wanted to drop a note to say thank you so much for arranging Sir Geoff, Kelly & Jill for our event yesterday. All three were lovely guests and entertained our audience, the session went really well and we had strong engagement on the day during the Q&A” – Megan, Meta

10. Victoria Coren Mitchell

Victoria Coren Mitchell is a sharp, articulate presenter and writer, best known for her work across broadcasting and commentary. On stage, she excels at intelligent, witty storytelling and thoughtful analysis of culture, media and modern life. As an after-dinner speaker, Victoria crafts talks that feel tailored and conversational, weaving in topical references and personal anecdotes that resonate strongly with professional audiences. She’s particularly effective at events where a more cerebral, reflective style is appreciated—bringing humour without losing depth. For clients seeking a smart, sophisticated voice who can hold a room with words alone, Victoria is an excellent choice.

Book a Female After-Dinner Speaker Today!

These remarkable women deliver far more than engaging stories; they offer fresh perspectives, practical lessons and a depth of experience that energises every audience. Whether they’re discussing their journeys, values or vision, their talks leave a meaningful and lasting impression. Ideal for events such as International Women’s Day, awards evenings or corporate celebrations, they inspire action, spark new thinking and help build more inclusive, forward-focused cultures across organisations.

Ready to elevate your next event with an exceptional female after-dinner speaker? Whether you’re hosting a conference, a gala dinner or a leadership gathering, our expert speakers will motivate, entertain and empower your audience. To learn more or secure a booking, call us on 0207 1010 553 or complete our online contact form, we’d love to help you create an unforgettable experience.