Jamil Zaki Keynote Speaker, Virtual Event Speaker

Stanford Psychologist and Social Neuroscientist

Jamil Zaki is a professor of psychology at Stanford University and director of the Stanford Social Neuroscience Laboratory. Through his pioneering research in social neuroscience, he explores how people understand one another, build stronger relationships, and create more compassionate communities and workplaces. He has become a leading voice on how empathy and optimism can help individuals and organisations thrive in an increasingly polarised world.

“One of the world’s leading experts on empathy, trust & kindness”

Book Jamil Zaki

Fee Range (Guide Only)

Over £20.000

Speaking Topics

The Science of Empathy
Building Trust in an Age of Cynicism
Creating Cultures of Kindness
Psychological Safety and High-Performing Teams
Human Connection in the Digital Age
Leading Through Uncertainty with Empathy
The Neuroscience of Collaboration
How Hope and Trust Drive Better Performance

Languages

He presents in English.

How he presents

Jamil Zaki is a thoughtful, engaging, and highly accessible speaker. His presentations are grounded in evidence while remaining warm, relatable, and optimistic, making complex psychological concepts easy to understand and immediately applicable. Using real-world examples, fascinating research findings, and interactive moments, Zaki encourages audiences to reflect on their own assumptions about empathy, trust, and human behavior.

Publications

2024
Hope for Cynics: The Surprising Science of Human Goodness
2019
The War for Kindness: Building Empathy in a Fractured World

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In Detail

Jamil Zaki’s work sits at the intersection of psychology, neuroscience, and human behaviour, offering fresh insights into how empathy shapes our relationships, leadership, and society. His research demonstrates that empathy is not an innate quality reserved for a few, it is a skill that can be strengthened through intentional practice. As Director of the Stanford Social Neuroscience Laboratory, Zaki leads research investigating the biological and psychological foundations of empathy, compassion, cooperation, and social connection. Drawing from years of research and real-world examples, Zaki challenges the belief that cynicism is a sign of intelligence or realism. Instead, he presents evidence that hope, kindness, and trust are practical advantages that improve decision-making, strengthen relationships, foster innovation, and create healthier organisations.

What he offers you

Jamil combines cutting-edge research with compelling storytelling and practical application. His presentations help audiences understand not only why empathy, trust, and kindness matter, but also how to cultivate them in workplaces, communities, and everyday life. His evidence-based approach resonates with organisations seeking stronger leadership, healthier cultures, and more effective collaboration.

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