Mary Robinson
As the first female President of Ireland, Mary elevated the country to a new level of international status and pioneered seismic change in the country. She then took up the role of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and was listed as one of Time’s top 100 men and women whose power, talent or moral example is transforming the world. She is a founding member and currently the Chair of The Elders, an independent group of global leaders formed by Nelson Mandela to tackle the world’s most pressing problems. Awarding Mary the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom, Barack Obama praised her as an “advocate for the forgotten and the ignored,” noting that she has “not only shone a light on human suffering but illuminated a better future for our world.” A highly sought after speaker, Mary brings the thought leadership of a former head of state, a grandmother’s passionately felt concern for the future and the compelling stories of the thousands she has met traveling the world as a champion for climate justice, human rights, gender equality and corporate responsibility. Drawing on one of Ireland's most impactful leadership careers, Mary will offer her reflections decision-making, speaking truth to power and long view leadership.
