Dionne Longmore is a keynote speaker and advocate for resilience, authenticity and the journey to empowerment. Living with Sickle Cell Anaemia, a severe and often misunderstood chronic condition, Dionne has faced immense challenges, including blindness, chronic daily pain and multiple prolonged hospital admissions. Yet, she has cultivated inner strength and an unwavering drive to inspire others to thrive in the face of adversity.
Her signature keynote, From A&E to Authenticity: How a First Date Unlocked My Unapologetic Self, is a compelling exploration of how life’s most difficult moments can reveal unexpected clarity and purpose. During what began as a light-hearted first date, Dionne found herself unexpectedly rushed to A&E due to complications from Sickle Cell Anaemia. What followed was not just a medical emergency but a turning point, one that uncovered the power of vulnerability, self-advocacy and the decision to live unapologetically. Through candid storytelling and sharp insight, Dionne encourages audiences to embrace discomfort, challenge conformity and lead with authenticity in all areas of life.
Dionne grew up in the southeast of England as the daughter of Jamaican parents, a heritage that has profoundly shaped her values and outlook. In a culturally rich household, she learned the power of resilience, community and perseverance. Inspired by her parents’ determination to create opportunity, Dionne developed the creativity and grit that define her approach to challenges today. She discovered strength and self-expression through poetry and performance, which continue to play a central role in her work. As part of her advocacy, Dionne participated in the NHS campaign #DearSickleCell, writing a powerful five-minute letter addressed to the condition itself. In this, she reflected on Sickle Cell’s impact on her life and called for greater awareness and more blood donors to support those living with the condition.
Professionally, Dionne has worked in Talent and Development as an HR professional within the financial services sector. For the past decade, she has dedicated her career to advancing equity and broadening access for underrepresented groups. As a founding member of her previous organisation’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee, she led initiatives that promoted belonging, expanded career access in finance and ensured diverse talent was recognised and supported. She continues to encourage others to embrace their authentic selves, empowering them to show up fully in every space they enter.
