About
Orla’s mission is to amplify underrepresented voices, bridge cultural gaps, and cultivate empathy through the transformative power of story.
Hello, Hiya, Dia Duit
Still I Rise Diversity Storytelling was founded by Orla McKeating, a single mother who recognised a significant lack of representation in the books she read to her black son, Elliot.
What began as a passion project, meeting weekly in Belfast with a handful of families, has grown into a powerful platform that has reached over 10,000 people through education, workshops, events, and storytelling sessions.
Our Founder Orla McKeating
Orla's Story
Orla’s mission is to amplify underrepresented voices, bridge cultural gaps, and cultivate empathy through the transformative power of story. By using storytelling as an educational tool, she aims to change how children, families, and educators engage with narratives that reflect the richness of our diverse society.
Today, Still I Rise delivers in-person and online workshops, stocks some of the most inclusive books in the world, and has recently launched a podcast.
Orla is also a keynote speaker, specialising in topics such as Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, Privilege & Race, Allyship & Advocacy, and Challenging Stigma. Her work is rooted in honesty, reflection, and action, and it’s always delivered with heart.
At Still I Rise, we believe that every person deserves to feel seen, heard, valued, and celebrated. Because when we rise together, we rise stronger.
Professional Accomplishments
Orla McKeating has been widely recognised for her work in entrepreneurship, social impact, and inclusive storytelling. Her achievements reflect a sustained commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices, fostering diversity, and creating positive change in business, education, and community spaces. These accolades celebrate both her professional excellence and her dedication to empowering others.
Author & Project Lead, Belfast (2025) A children’s book celebrating diversity created with under-represented children and families, spotlighting representation, belonging, and the city’s rich diversity; Contributing Author, Diverse Educators: A Manifesto (2022); Small Business Britain Top 100 (2025); Education for All, Northern Ireland Hummingbird Awards (2025); Educator of the Year, Sheroes Global Awards (2024); Finalist – Belfast Business Idea Awards for Still I Rise Diversity Storytelling (2022); Finalist – Women Who Have Overcome Adversity, Ulster Tatler Awards (2022); Finalist – UK Positive Role Model, National Diversity Awards (2021); Acumen Academy Fellow (UK) – first Northern Ireland Fellow (2021); Featured in Diverse In Global’s 145 Inspiring Women Leaders (2020); #iAlso f:Entrepreneur Top 100 (2019); Digital DNA Podcast of the Year (2019); Northern Ireland 40 Under 40 (2018)