Leah Brown FRSA

I’m Leah Brown—a former corporate lawyer turned social entrepreneur, blending the precision of a legal expert, the diplomacy of a mediator, and the vision of a changemaker. Born and raised in North Yorkshire, my journey has taken me from law courts to boardrooms and beyond, honing my ability to transform chaos into order and obstacles into opportunities.

From Philosophy to the Bar: Laying the Foundation

I’ve always been drawn to deep thinking and big questions, which led me to study philosophy and politics at Durham University, where I graduated in 2008. I followed my ambition to the Bar Vocational Course in 2011, with dreams of making my mark in the courtroom. When immigration regulations disrupted that path, I adapted, training as a solicitor with top firms like Freshfields and Simpson Thacher. Those years prepared me to face life’s twists and turns with resilience and focus.

Navigating the Storm: Finding My Leadership Calling

By 2017, I found myself at a crossroads as personal and professional challenges mounted. Rather than be overwhelmed, I discovered my talent for helping others navigate complex transitions. The pandemic brought me to a turning point, and burnout became the catalyst for my boldest move yet: stepping away from corporate life, relocating to the Kent coast, and founding The WayFinders Group.

Through The WayFinders Group, I’ve built a consultancy dedicated to guiding leaders and organizations through the messiness of change. Alongside this, I launched BroadStairs, a mediation service, and ClearPaths, a CIC focused on restorative justice and conflict resolution. Together, these initiatives aim to reimagine how we approach conflict in workplaces, communities, and society.

A Storyteller and Advocate for Change

Storytelling is one of my greatest passions, and it shines through in my podcast, The Longest Day. There, I’ve had the privilege of interviewing leaders like Sir Vince Cable, David Lammy MP, and Lord Ed Vaizey about their most challenging moments, inspiring listeners to embrace growth through adversity. My writing explores themes like diversity, mental health, and resilience, and I’m excited to share my forthcoming memoir, My Nearest Relative is Grief, a deeply personal and thought-provoking journey through loss.

Leading with Purpose

My commitment to social impact extends far beyond my businesses. I’m proud to serve on the boards of organizations like Unseen UK and Big Green Heart, and I work as an advisor to initiatives like ARC’s Race Equality Commission and Kent Cricket. As a Fellow of the RSA and a member of the Society of Authors, I’m dedicated to bridging divides between sectors and championing equity and inclusion in every space I occupy.

Building a Better Future

For me, solving problems is just the beginning. I’m driven by the mission to create lasting, transformative change—whether I’m mediating boardroom disputes, mentoring emerging leaders, or crafting my next story.

The true challenge isn’t just navigating life’s chaos; it’s believing in a future defined by harmony, equity, and growth—and working tirelessly to build it. That’s the future I’m committed to, and I’m determined to help others find their way there too.