Xiaohongshu
- Hosted by Sports Business Society
The UCL Sports Business Society is delighted to welcome Professor John Amaechi OBE, former NBA basketball player, organisational psychologist, bestselling author and internationally recognised leadership expert, for an exclusive event at University College London.
John Amaechi's remarkable career has taken him from professional basketball to becoming one of the most influential voices in leadership, organisational psychology and high performance.
Having first taken up basketball at the age of 17, Amaechi defied expectations to become the first Briton to play in the NBA. Throughout his professional career, he represented the Cleveland Cavaliers, Orlando Magic and Utah Jazz, competing at the highest level of international basketball.
Following his retirement from professional sport, Amaechi established himself as a leading organisational psychologist and business consultant. As the founder of APS intelligence, he has adviser major organisations and senior executives on leadership, workplace culture, inclusion and performance. He is also an Honorary Professor of Leadership at the University of Exeter Business School and the author of several books, including 'It's not magic: The Ordinary Skills of Exceptional Leaders.'
Beyond his professional achievements, Amaechi has been a prominent advocate for equality, inclusion and social change. In 2007, he became the first former NBA player to publicly come out as gay, challenging longstanding barriers within professional sport. In 2011, he was awarded an OBE for his services to sport and the voluntary sector.
The event will begin with a moderated interview conducted by SBS committee member Hussein Ahmad, exploring Amaechi's extraordinary journey, from his experiences in the NBA to his transition into psychology, business and leadership. The conversation will examine the lessons he has drawn from elite sport, the psychology behind high-performing individuals and organisations, and his perspectives on leadership, resilience and personal development.
This will be followed by an open audience Q&A, offering students the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with one of the most fascinating figures to have bridged the worlds of professional sport, psychology and business.
Join us for what promises to be an insightful and inspiring evening with John Amaechi OBE.
Roberts Building Lecture Theatre 309 at UCL is wheelchair accessible with step-free level access via a lift.
- Location: Third floor of the Darwin Extension (Roberts Building).
- Step-Free Access: Available via lift directly to Lecture Theatre 309.
- Route Features: Includes a lift, an easy ramp or slope, and manual doors.
- Doors: Double manual doors opening away from you with a high visual contrast and an opening width of 162 cm.
- Signage: Written text signage is located on or near the entrance.
- Detailed Guide: You can review the full breakdown on the AccessAble UCL Guide.