The Inclusion and Equity Leadership Association (IELA) is delighted to announce the appointment of Dame Sara Khan DBE as its new Honorary President.
Widely recognised as one of the UK’s foremost independent authorities on extremism, social cohesion, and democratic resilience, Dame Sara brings unparalleled expertise to the role, alongside a lifelong commitment to advancing inclusive, cohesive, and resilient societies.
Dame Sara served as the UK’s first Counter-Extremism Commissioner (2018–2021) and later as the Independent Adviser for Social Cohesion and Resilience (2021–2024). Beyond her public-service roles, Dame Sara has extensive experience in educational settings. As co-founder and co-director of Inspire, she delivered training to more than 5,000 educators across 200+ schools, supporting teachers to safeguard students from radicalisation and strengthen school communities. She has also served on OFSTED’s Expert Advisory Board and advised the Department for Education’s Due Diligence and Counter-Extremism Expert Reference Group for three years.
Dame Sara’s career is defined by rigorous evidence-gathering, impartiality, and a firm commitment to practical, implementable solutions. She is widely admired for her convening power, ability to engage diverse stakeholders, and her integrity in challenging government policy where necessary. Her leadership style rooted in collaboration, inclusion, and respect for diverse perspectives aligns deeply with IELA’s mission.
“We are honoured to welcome Dame Sara Khan as Honorary President. At a time when democratic values and social cohesion are under increasing strain, her expertise and leadership will be invaluable to IELA’s mission of advancing equity, inclusion, and resilience across institutions and communities.” said Gaelle Sullivan, Director, IELA.
“Dame Sara’s proven ability to inspire, mobilise, and unify people from all backgrounds makes her an exceptional figure to help guide IELA’s impact in the years ahead.”
Following her appointment, Dame Sara Khan DBE said “I am delighted to be joining IELA as Honorary President. I look forward to supporting IELA’s vital work in strengthening leadership, empowering communities, and championing the values that underpin a thriving, pluralistic democracy.”
Dame Sara will support IELA’s strategic direction, amplify its thought leadership, and help shape its work across education, government, civil society, and business. Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for IELA as it expands its national and international programmes on inclusion and equity.
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