LIFI25: first names

Leeds International Festival of Ideas (LIFI25) is proud to announce its initial three speakers for this year’s festival, set to take place in October 2025. The festival will bring over 40 speakers together, some of the most innovative and thought-provoking minds from around the world, to encourage conversation, connection and curiosity.

The festival, taking place 14 – 18 October at Leeds Playhouse, is proud to reveal the first three faces who each bring bold perspectives and global influence:

Chuck D, founder of the pioneering hip-hop group Public Enemy, is not only a musical icon but a powerful voice in social and political commentary. Known for his uncompromising stance on race, justice, and activism, Chuck will bring decades of cultural insight and provocation to the LIFI stage. Myleene Klass MBE, celebrated musician, broadcaster and tireless campaigner for women’s health, has been instrumental in changing miscarriage policy and speaking openly about taboo topics. Her appearance promises a deeply personal and passionate conversation as she hosts a special panel. William Hanson, the UK’s leading etiquette expert and co-host of the wildly popular podcast Help I Sexted My Boss and author of the Sunday Times Bestselling book ‘Just Good Manners’, will offer a humorous yet incisive take on modern manners, class and the strange rules that govern our behaviour.

These three dynamic figures reflect LIFI25’s mission to bring together the sharpest, most original minds from across disciplines, sparking new ideas and conversation that challenge and inspire.

Martin Dickson, Festival Director, said:

“We’re delighted to reveal the first three names for LIFI25, each bringing something truly different, challenging and exciting to the festival. Our full programme, which lands on 17 June, is packed with incredible speakers and new voices. With themes spanning politics, culture, motherhood, men, health, etiquette and more, this year’s line-up is the boldest and broadest we’ve ever delivered. We can’t wait to share it and to see audiences join us in the incredible surroundings of Leeds Playhouse this October.”

LIFI is brought to the city by LeedsBID (Leeds Business Improvement District), supported by city centre businesses including Bruntwood SciTech, SOYO Leeds, Weightmans and new for 2025 Victoria Leeds.

Shawab Iqbal CEO of Leeds Playhouse, added:

“We’re delighted to welcome back Leeds International Festival of Ideas to Leeds Playhouse. The festival’s focus on platforming big conversations and new thinking aligns perfect with the Playhouse in making space for stories, people and perspectives that inspire. Hosting speakers like Chuck D, Myleene Klass MBE and William Hanson reflects the festival’s power to bring together culture, challenge and change, right here in Leeds.”

A full programme of panel discussions and keynote talks will be revealed on 17 June 2025, with topics including political systems and music, cultural wars, domestic abuse, resilience and more.