Lara Oyedele – Housing Champion, Social Justice Advocate and Community Leader

Lara Oyedele is a Londoner turned proud Bradford resident who has dedicated her life to tackling inequality, homelessness and the lack of diversity in leadership. She made history as the first Black female President of the Chartered Institute of Housing, using her platform to challenge the lack of diversity in the leadership housing associations and local authorities. 

She is Chair of Trustees at Hope Housing, a Bradford based homelessness charity. Lara is also a private landlord, providing affordable homes in the city as part of her long standing commitment to housing justice and community wellbeing.

As founder and CEO of Black on Board, she trains and mentors people from underrepresented backgrounds to take up leadership roles on boards across the UK. Her work is helping to shift the balance of power and ensure decisions are made by people who reflect the communities they serve.

A former journalist and lifelong campaigner, Lara brings clarity, courage and lived experience to every stage she stands on. Her voluntary work spans mentoring, grassroots action and national policy influence. She never misses an opportunity to speak truth to power. 

When not working or volunteering, Lara enjoys a strong cup of tea, great shoes and watching Eastenders.

Follow Lara Oyedele on LinkedIn for updates on leadership, housing and social change.