Episode V: She Means Business

Hannah Awonuga, CEO Illume & Global DEI Expert

Hannah Awonuga is more than a DEI expert - she’s a change-maker driven by purpose, faith, and a deep belief in the power of equity to transform lives. With over two decades of experience in banking and real estate, Hannah is shaping a global strategy that makes inclusion part of everyday business. Not just a corporate promise.

Her influence reaches far beyond the boardroom. Named one of HR Magazine’s Top 25 Most Influential DEI Practitioners and a WeAreTheCity Rising Star Award winner, Hannah has been recognized year after year as one of the most inspirational D&I professionals in the U.K. and beyond. But it’s her humility and heart that stand out most.

Starting her career at Barclays at just 17, Hannah spent 18 years rising through the ranks, leading teams, mentoring talent, and eventually becoming Global Director of DEI. That journey shaped her deep understanding of what it means to belong, to be underestimated, and to break barriers.

Today, alongside her corporate role, Hannah serves as a Non-Executive Director at Progress Together, a U.K. government body advancing socioeconomic inclusion across financial services - a mission rooted in her own lived experience.

With a growing online community of over 75,000 followers, Hannah’s voice is bold, grounded, and full of grace. Whether she’s leading safe-space conversations with senior executives or speaking on global stages, her message is clear: inclusion is not a trend - it’s a calling.

—Lynn