Founder of Kanea Consulting, Former Mayor of Folkestone, Chief AI Learning & Transformation Officer at Anaiya Group Ltd & Political Political Leadership Trainer for the Labour Women’s Network
Abena Akuffo-Kelly’s Biography:
Abena Akuffo-Kelly is a well-respected leadership coach, culture change strategist and public sector leader renowned for helping organisations build inclusive, high-performing and future-focused workplace cultures. As the Founder and Director of Kanea Consulting, Abena advises businesses, educational institutions and public sector organisations on leadership development, diversity, equity and organisational transformation. Her career combines expertise in education, political leadership and artificial intelligence, making her a highly sought-after speaker on leadership, inclusion and innovation. Also serving as the Mayor of Folkestone, Abena brings first-hand experience of leading communities, driving change and influencing policy at both local and national levels.
Abena began her career in education, working as a computer science teacher for more than 15 years before progressing into senior leadership. Her passion for professional development and inclusive learning led her to roles including Professional Development Lead for STEM Learning and educational consultant for The Association for Science Education. Alongside her educational career, Abena became increasingly involved in public service, serving as a District Councillor and later Chair of Folkestone and Hythe District Council. She subsequently founded Kanea Consulting and Repairs Together, before expanding her work internationally as a consultant for WI-HER and as Chief AI Learning & Transformation Officer at Anaiya Group Ltd.
Throughout her career, Abena has been recognised for her commitment to diversity, leadership and innovation. She was a finalist in the Kent Women in Business Awards and was nominated for the WeAreTheCity Rising Star Award in the Diversity category. She has also contributed her expertise as an advisor for Kent Police, an Associate Facilitator for Leaders Plus and an Anti-Racist Schools Award Coach at Leeds Beckett University. In addition, she serves as a Political Leadership Trainer for the Labour Women’s Network and an Executive Committee Member of the Fabian Women’s Network.
Abena is widely respected for her ability to connect leadership strategy with practical action. Drawing on her experience across education, local government, consultancy and AI transformation, she delivers engaging talks on inclusive leadership, organisational culture, women in leadership, anti-racism and the future of work. Her multidisciplinary background allows her to inspire audiences with actionable insights on leading change, empowering teams and creating equitable organisations in rapidly evolving environments.
Why Hire Abena Akuffo-Kelly?
Abena is hired as a speaker for her unique ability to combine leadership expertise, public sector experience and cultural transformation strategies into highly practical and inspiring presentations. Having led within education, local government and consultancy, she offers audiences authentic insights into inclusive leadership, AI transformation and organisational change. Abena is particularly valued for empowering female leaders, championing anti-racist practices and helping organisations develop resilient workplace cultures. Her engaging speaking style, combined with real-world leadership experience as a former mayor and senior educational leader, makes her an impactful speaker for conferences, leadership programmes and corporate events.
Abena Akuffo-Kelly’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Abena Akuffo-Kelly’s remarkable career:
- 2026 – Appointed Chief AI Learning & Transformation Officer at Anaiya Group Ltd, leading AI-driven learning and organisational transformation initiatives.
- 2025 – Became an Executive Committee Member at Fabian Women’s Network, supporting the development of women in politics and leadership.
- 2025 – Serves as Chair of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee and Chair of the Finance & Performance Committee at Folkestone & Hythe District Council.
- 2025 – Named a finalist in the Kent Women in Business Awards for her contributions to leadership and inclusion.
- 2024 – Nominated for the WeAreTheCity Rising Star Award in the Diversity category.
- 2024 – Served as Mayor of Folkestone, representing and leading the local community.
- 2023 – Served as District Councillor and Chair of Council at Folkestone & Hythe District Council.
- 2022 – Founded Kanea Consulting, delivering leadership coaching and culture change consultancy services.
- 2022 – Serves as Advisor and Independent Chair for Kent Police, contributing expertise on governance and leadership.
Videos
Abena Akuffo-Kelly’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Abena Akuffo-Kelly delivered an inspiring and thought-provoking session that left a lasting impact on our audience. Combining expertise in leadership, culture change and inclusion with genuine warmth and authenticity, Abena has an exceptional ability to connect with people at every level. Her insights on empowering teams, driving organisational transformation and creating inclusive workplaces were both practical and motivating. Audiences were particularly impressed by her engaging delivery style and real-world leadership experience across education, local government and consultancy. Abena is a truly impactful speaker who brings energy, credibility and actionable takeaways to every event.” – David Simms
Speaking Topics
Abena Akuffo-Kelly’s Official Keynote Topics:
- AI Literacy For Educators & Leaders: Understanding AI, risks, ethics & governance
- Digital Inclusion & Community Empowerment: Bridging digital divides with local & sustainable solutions
- Gender Equity & Political Voice: Empowering women & underrepresented groups to lead & stand for office
- Raising Aspirations in STEM: Practical strategies to engage underrepresented learners & families
- Leading with Psychological Safety: Creating environments where people speak up, learn & thrive
- Anti-Racism in Practice: Moving from statements to systems, with measurable change
How Much Does Abena Akuffo-Kelly Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Abena Akuffo-Kelly?
Abena Akuffo-Kelly’s speaking fees typically reflect her exceptional career. Engagements vary depending on location, format, and duration; keynote appearances, conferences, and international events may command higher fees due to travel and preparation requirements.