Harish Iyer

About Harish Iyer

Harish Iyer is one of India’s most courageous and compassionate voices for equality, inclusion, and justice. An equal rights activist, author, and acclaimed Pride speaker, Harish has dedicated his life to advocating for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, women, children, survivors of child sexual abuse, and animal welfare. Known for speaking with rare honesty and emotional depth, he brings lived experience into every conversation, making his sessions deeply moving and transformative.

Harish Iyer is widely recognised as one of the prominent individuals who moved the Supreme Court in the historic reading down of Section 377, a landmark moment in India’s journey toward LGBTQ+ equality. As the founder of The Jimmy Foundation, he works relentlessly to promote dignity, justice, and safety—irrespective of gender, caste, sexuality, or species. His advocacy is rooted in empathy, resilience, and the belief that personal stories can drive systemic change. He has worked closely with organisations on building safer workplaces, trauma-informed leadership, and authentic diversity frameworks. His talks are especially valued for bridging legal awareness with human storytelling, helping audiences move from empathy to action.

Harish is the only Indian to be featured on the World Pride Power List, recognising the 100 most influential LGBTQ+ leaders globally. He is a recipient of the Karmaveer Puraskaar and has spoken on prestigious platforms including TEDx and Tehelka’s THiNK Conference. His life and work have inspired films like I Am and Amen, and his story was featured on Satyamev Jayate and the global documentary series Gaycation. His autobiography Son Rise further chronicles his journey of survival, advocacy, and hope.

Booking Harish Iyer as a motivational speaker brings an unmatched blend of courage, vulnerability, and conviction—leaving audiences informed, moved, and empowered to build a more inclusive world.