Now booking · 2027
Book Emma
Talks, judging, events and partnerships.
Emma speaks from lived experience as an autistic woman, and from her work as a PhD researcher at the University of Derby. As a Miss Pageant Queen UK 2026 National Finalist, representing Derbyshire, and an official Ambassador for Treetops Hospice, she brings warmth, honesty and one clear message to every room: making the invisible, visible.
Her PhD, which began in January 2026, looks at how aftercare following an autism diagnosis in adulthood can be improved. She has given a motivational speech for Rethink Mental Illness, and she is available for talks, judging, hosting, events and partnerships across the UK. Every talk is shaped around the people in front of her, from a school assembly to a conference stage.
Talks & topics
Making the invisible, visible
The heart of Emma's message: why being seen matters, and how each of us can use whatever platform we have to make space for someone else.
Autism acceptance and belonging
From awareness to acceptance: Emma draws on her own experience as an autistic woman to explore what it really takes for autistic people to feel they belong.
Pageantry with purpose
What the pageant stage has taught Emma about confidence and community, and how a title and a spotlight can carry a serious message.
Supporting SEND families
Reflections on special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), the families who navigate them, and how schools, services and communities can make that road less lonely.
Mental health and finding your voice
Drawn from Emma's motivational speech for Rethink Mental Illness: looking after your mental health, speaking up, and finding the courage to be heard.
Visibility and confidence for young people
An encouraging talk for schools, colleges and youth groups about confidence, difference, and knowing that you belong in the room.
Formats
- Keynote talks
- Panel discussions
- Judging
- Hosting
- School and university talks
- Awards and charity events
Who Emma speaks to
- Schools and colleges
- Universities
- Charities
- Businesses and corporate events
- Community groups
- Pageant organisations
Past engagements
All appearances →- Speaker
Rethink Mental Illness Volunteer Meeting
Spoke at the volunteer meeting for the mental health charity.
- Host
Emma Barker Brand Launch
Derby College Inclusivity Awards
Gave a speech at the start of the inclusivity awards.
Derby
SpeakerFashion show house of elegence
ye olde bell hotel
Speaker- Guest of honour
Pear Tree Pub Fan Zone Opening
Opened the pub's fan zone for the 2026 World Cup.
- Speaker
Chaddesden Park Primary School Aspirations Day
Spoke at the aspirations day and did activities around confidence with the pupils.
Coming up
The Warrior Charity Pageant
Competing as a national finalist.
Burntwood Memorial Community Association, Burntwood, Staffordshire
FinalistPoppy Appeal RBL
Wyvern Sainsbury's, Derby
VolunteerPride Park, Derby
GuestThe Miss Pageant Queen UK 2026 Grand Final
Competing as a national finalist representing Derbyshire.
Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Hall, Sutton Coldfield
Finalist
Booking questions
How much does it cost to book Emma Barker?
Emma Barker's fees are available on request and depend on the event: its format, length, location and audience. Send a few details through the form below and she will reply personally.
Where is Emma Barker based, and does she travel?
Emma Barker is based in Derby and travels UK-wide for talks, judging, hosting and events. Travel arrangements can be discussed when you get in touch.
Can you plan for accessibility needs and adjustments?
Yes. Accessibility matters to Emma Barker, for your audience and on the day itself. Mention any access needs in your enquiry, such as a relaxed or sensory-friendly session, and she will talk through adjustments that work for everyone.
How far ahead should we book Emma Barker?
As early as you can. Emma Barker balances speaking with her PhD research, so a few weeks' notice is ideal, and more for keynotes. Short-notice requests are welcome too: just ask.
What should a booking enquiry include?
The date and location, the type of event and audience, roughly how long you would like Emma Barker to speak or be involved, and any topic you have in mind. A budget and a contact name for the day help too.
Can Emma Barker tailor a talk to our event?
Yes. Every talk Emma Barker gives is shaped around its audience, whether that is a school assembly, a lecture theatre or a charity gala. She can focus on one topic or combine several, and is happy to discuss your aims beforehand.