Hope Virgo

Hope Virgo is a leading voice on eating disorder recovery and mental health awareness, known for her ability to connect with audiences through her honesty, lived experience and drive for change. A highly sought-after keynote speaker, Hope is particularly impactful in virtual settings, where her calm authority and heartfelt storytelling shine through. From the age of 12, she battled anorexia in silence, before being admitted to a mental health hospital at 17 – a turning point that shaped the rest of her life. Since then, she has become a powerful campaigner and advocate, using her journey to inform and inspire others while pushing for systemic change.

After her recovery, Hope channelled her experience into writing and advocacy. She is the author of two acclaimed books, Stand Tall Little Girl and Hope Through Recovery, both of which have helped thousands understand the realities of living with and overcoming an eating disorder. Alongside writing, Hope began sharing her story through keynote talks, particularly in schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings. She is the founder of the #DumpTheScales campaign, which has been backed by over 67,000 people and resulted in two major parliamentary debates. This campaign has challenged the UK’s BMI-based approach to eating disorder treatment and helped push for more inclusive, evidence-based care.

Hope’s influence goes well beyond the mental health community. She has worked in roles such as Corporate Partnership Executive at UNICEF UK and Stakeholder Relations Officer for the Alzheimer’s Society, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to social impact. Her media presence is equally impressive – she’s regularly featured on BBC News, Newsnight, Good Morning Britain, and more, where she addresses misconceptions around eating disorders and promotes better mental health support. Whether she’s speaking on national television or in front of a corporate team, Hope delivers a message that is clear, practical and full of humanity.

As a keynote speaker, Hope is booked to cover topics such as managing mental health, workplace wellbeing, recovery, and breaking stigma, all of which she tailors to suit online and in-person events. Her virtual talks are just as powerful as those delivered in person – professional, warm, and grounded in lived experience. Hope gives her audience not just information, but the tools and confidence to act, support others, and have better conversations around mental health. When you book Hope Virgo, you bring real expertise and compassion to your event.