As per this report, events still lack diversity in their speaker lineups, with only 33% of speakers being women and many events failing to include Black voices.
However, event marketers globally have begun prioritizing DE&I in every aspect of their event planning, from diverse speakers to inclusive partnerships.
In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the top DE&I events to attend in 2025, where you can engage with thought leaders and contribute to the conversation on diversity and inclusion.
DE&I Events to Attend in 2025
1. 2025 AES International Conference on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Date: April 3rd – 5th, 2025
Location: San Diego, USA
Among the top DE&I events to attend in 2025 is the AES Conference on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, which is set to unite a diverse group of academics, audio professionals, industry veterans, and advocates.
This event is all about advancing DEI values within the audio industry, offering a unique space to explore important topics like gender equity, access, representation, and the participation of underrepresented groups in audio and related fields.
With a focus on collaboration and innovation, this conference aims to spark meaningful conversations that will inspire change and encourage cross-industry partnerships. It’s a powerful opportunity to connect with those leading the charge for a more inclusive and accessible future in audio, and to amplify the voices of those who are driving progress in the industry.
2. National Diversity & Leadership Conference 2025
Date: April 7th – 10th, 2025
Location: The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, Los Angeles, USA
The 21st Annual National Diversity & Leadership Conference (NDLC) is a must-attend event for anyone passionate to learn about and practise a culture of advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Held in the heart of Los Angeles at the Westin Bonaventure, this year’s conference revolves around the theme “Collective Voice.”
The event brings together internationally renowned speakers and thought leaders who will dive into critical DEI topics for both personal and professional growth. In addition to inspiring keynotes, the conference features hands-on breakout sessions and workshops led by industry experts, covering a wide range of DEI topics across various sectors.
The event kicks off with a virtual pre-conference, National DEI Training Week (March 11-13), setting the stage for deep, impactful discussions. Whether you’re looking to refine your leadership skills or connect with others who are shaping the future of diversity and inclusion, the NDLC is the place to be.
3. SPARK HR 2025
Date: April 30th – May 2nd, 2025
Location: Lake Buena Vista, Florida, USA
SPARK HR 2025 is the must-attend event for HR professionals and leaders looking to stay ahead of the curve in the world of human resources, DEI, and organizational development. Taking place in the vibrant setting of Lake Buena Vista, Florida, this conference will gather industry experts and innovators dedicated to shaping the future of the workplace.
SPARK HR conferences are known for their engaging workshops, networking opportunities, and deep dives into topics like leadership, employee engagement, and creating inclusive environments. Attendees can expect to leave with valuable insights and actionable strategies to bring back to their organizations and drive meaningful change.
4. Workhuman Live 2025
Date: May 12th -15th, 2025
Location: Denver, USA
Workhuman Live is one of the most anticipated events of 2025, bringing together thousands of professionals who are passionate about creating a better workplace for everyone. Known for its world-class speakers and dynamic content, this conference is where you’ll discover actionable strategies to elevate yourself, your organization, and your community.
Headlined by renowned thought leaders like Adam Grant, the best-selling author and expert in organizational psychology, Workhuman Live offers 4 days of inspiring sessions, interactive workshops, and valuable networking. With over 65+ speakers and 52+ hours of educational content, the conference is designed to empower attendees at every level.
Key Tracks at Workhuman Live 2025:
- For You – Rise Up: Learn practical tools for personal growth, from overcoming burnout and managing career anxieties to making better decisions and resolving workplace conflicts.
- For Your Organization – Build Up: Discover strategies for building a resilient, collaborative culture that drives productivity and fosters alignment across departments.
- For Your Community – Lift Up: Focus on empathy, inclusivity, and recognition as you align company values with human values, helping to create a more empowered and connected workforce.
- For Leaders – Step Up: Gain dynamic, data-driven leadership strategies to boost performance and elevate the humans within your organization.
This is a must-attend event for anyone looking to drive change in their workplace, from frontline employees to top executives. With a growing lineup of A-list speakers, Workhuman Live promises to deliver the inspiration and practical tools you need to reach new heights.
5. International Conference on Diversity in Organizations, Communities & Nations
Date: June 11th – 13th, 2025
Location: University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus
The Twenty-Fifth International Conference on Diversity in Organizations, Communities & Nations invites researchers, academics, and practitioners from around the world to explore the diverse ways human differences manifest in organizations, communities, and nations.
Taking place at the University of Nicosia in Cyprus, this conference offers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and practical strategies for navigating diversity in today’s complex and rapidly changing world.
The 2025 event focuses on the theme “Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity: Navigating Intercultural Leadership,” addressing the challenges and opportunities of leading across cultures in a globalized, unpredictable environment.
Topics of focus include:
- Identity and Belonging: Examining how identity shapes experiences of inclusion, exclusion, and community-building.
- Education and Learning in Worlds of Difference: Exploring how education systems can promote understanding and bridge cultural divides.
- Organizational Diversity: Understanding how organizations can cultivate diverse, inclusive, and innovative environments.
- Community Diversity and Governance: Investigating how diversity influences governance structures and community decision-making.
This conference provides a collaborative space to connect across borders whether geographical, cultural, or disciplinary, and work together to develop actionable solutions that address the challenges of diversity in today’s world.
6. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity Conference 2025
Date: July 29th, 2025
Location: Raleigh Convention & Performing Arts Complex, Raleigh, USA
Next among the top DE&I events to attend in 2025, is the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity Conference 2025 is a key event for organizations looking to strengthen their DEI initiatives and create more inclusive, equitable workplaces.
Hosted by the Triangle DEI Alliance, a program of the Raleigh Chamber, this conference will provide you with the tools and strategies you need to enhance DEI within your organization and the community, at large.
Through engaging panels, breakout sessions with industry experts, and plenty of opportunities to network, attendees will explore best practices for promoting diversity and inclusion, both in the workplace and beyond. Whether you’re just starting your DEI journey or looking to refine your approach, this conference is designed to offer practical, actionable insights that can be immediately applied.
The event will feature Al Vivian, CEO of Basic Diversity, as the keynote speaker, offering invaluable expertise on how to build and sustain diverse and inclusive environments. Plus, the conference qualifies for SHRM professional development credits.
7. SHRM INCLUSION 2025
Date: October 26th – 29th, 2025
Location: Louisville, USA
INCLUSION 2025 is a conference you can’t afford to miss if you’re passionate about driving real change in inclusion and diversity (I&D). Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your I&D journey, this event will equip you with the tools, insights, and strategies to make a tangible impact in your organization.
Over four transformative days in Louisville, you’ll join over 2,400 like-minded professionals from across industries, all committed to building workplaces where diverse perspectives are not just welcomed, but valued. You’ll engage in thought-provoking sessions led by some of the world’s most influential I&D experts, who will share the latest strategies for bridging the gap between recruitment, ROI, and the power of diverse thinking.
This conference isn’t just about listening to inspiring talks; it’s about learning, sharing, and networking with others who are equally passionate about creating stronger, more inclusive workplaces.
Whether you’re looking to enhance your recruitment strategies, boost employee engagement, or simply cultivate a more inclusive culture, INCLUSION 2025 will leave you inspired and ready to take action.
8. Advance HE Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Conference 2025
Date: April 2nd & 3rd, 2025
Location: Crowne Plaza, Newcastle, UK
The Advance HE EDI Conference 2025 enables a global conversation about how we can better shape the future of equality, diversity, and inclusion in higher education. This event focuses on the power of intersectionality – how race, gender, sexuality, disability, and other identities intersect and influence our experiences. It seeks to explore “how higher education can address these complex, interconnected issues while striving to create truly inclusive environments”.
With challenges like financial constraints, global tensions, and a fragmented social climate, the conference will look at how these realities affect work in higher education and how change can be brought about. It’s an opportunity to reflect on what’s working, learn from the success stories, and discuss practical strategies for advancing the EDI agenda, despite the challenges we face.
Attendees will leave with fresh insights, actionable ideas, and a stronger sense of how to drive real change within their institutions. Whether you’re looking to build more inclusive policies or foster a supportive community in your university, this conference is the perfect place to gather inspiration and connect with others committed to making a difference.
Bottom Line
This list of the top DE&I events to attend in 2025 offer more than just a learning experience; they provide an opportunity to drive meaningful change within your organization and beyond. These events offer the latest insights, practical strategies, and valuable connections that can help you create more inclusive, equitable workplaces.
Whether you’re looking to deepen your DEI knowledge, build stronger networks, or transform your workplace culture, the DE&I conferences listed here provide the perfect platform.
Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of a powerful movement for change. Go ahead and register for the event that speaks to you, mark your calendar and get ready to take action.
FAQ
DEI conferences are beneficial for professionals across all industries and levels of leadership. Whether you’re an HR professional, organizational leader, or community advocate, these conferences provide valuable resources for anyone looking to promote diversity and inclusion in their workplace or community.
Many DEI conferences offer SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) or HRCI (HR Certification Institute) credits, which can be applied toward professional development or certification requirements. Be sure to check the specific conference details for credit availability.