Michelle Silverthorn

Michelle Silverthorn believes that diversity and inclusion needs a new voice for a new generation. A recognized expert in organizational inclusion, Michelle has spoken around the world to multinational companies, tech start-ups, non-profit organizations, universities, and numerous companies across every industry. From thousand-person conferences to twenty-person workshops, Michelle equips all of her audiences with the knowledge and skills to finally move forward on diversity and inclusion.

A graduate of Princeton University and the University of Michigan Law School, Michelle practiced for two large law firms in New York and Chicago. She then transitioned into the education field where she trained thousands in-person and online. She has been featured on NPR, PBS and in several publications including the Chicago Tribune and Fortune Magazine. She is a TEDx speaker and the author of the best-selling book, Authentic Diversity, How to Change the Workplace For Good.

Michelle previously worked as an arts and entertainment journalist in Trinidad and Tobago, a researcher in Puno, Peru and Geneva, Switzerland, and a volunteer teacher in Gaborone, Botswana and Almaty, Kazakhstan. Michelle grew up in the Caribbean and now lives in the US with her husband Daniel and their two daughters.

 

*   *   *   TESTIMONIALS   *   *   *

To say we were blown away by Michelle is an understatement ... She brought heart, she brought truth, and she created a space for candid, raw conversation. You know her words are powerful when she moves our Chairman to tears. Our employees described the event as enlightening and sobering, invigorating and inspiring. She made employees feel seen and understood, while challenging others to uncover and confront their own bias and assumptions. Her message, although at times difficult and uncomfortable, united us as a team, challenging us to rise together to higher standard. — Kamala Avila-Salmon, Head of Inclusive Content, Lionsgate Films

 

I honestly can’t recall talks that captured my attention the way your sessions did. I certainly learned a lot and came away feeling empowered for action ... It was everything I wanted for the group and more ...You most definitely delivered something meaningful, thoughtful, inspiring and practical.  — Kirsten Green, Founder and Managing Partner, Forerunner Ventures

 

Thank you for all of the guidance and services ... Your help has been invaluable and I will sing your praises to all who will listen! You’ve helped me start real, actionable conversations at work that have the potential to truly change our company.” — Sibyl McCarley, VP, Human Resources | Modern Hire