What You Can Expect at Elevate: A Conversation with Tasneem Chopra OAM

Tasmeen Chopra OAM | Cross Cultural Consultant |Author

When the Elevate Business Summit takes place in 2026, one of the most anticipated voices on the program will be Tasneem Chopra OAM – cross-cultural consultant, media commentator, and advocate for inclusive leadership. Known for her fearless insights into diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), Tasneem will challenge attendees to re-examine what real leadership looks like in today’s world.

Inclusive Leadership in Practice

For Tasneem, true inclusion begins with intent. “We cannot talk about inclusive leadership without first acknowledging the dispossession of First Nations people of this country,” she says. Beyond that, leaders must reflect the communities they serve. In a country where one in three Australians are first- or second-generation migrants, the absence of this diversity at the top levels of business and government is, in her words, “a missed opportunity.”

The opportunity is not about tokenism. Tasneem argues it’s about better outcomes. “Diverse leadership teams don’t just look good on paper – the data is conclusive. They perform better, innovate faster, and connect more authentically with markets.”

Challenging Bias & Redefining Representation

A recurring theme in Tasneem’s work is bias – especially the hidden assumption that organisations should hire for “cultural fit” rather than “cultural add.” While the former reinforces sameness, the latter is where growth happens. “Discomfort leads to organisational maturity,” she notes.

When representation is genuine, it sends a powerful message: leadership is attainable for those who have historically been excluded. This ripple effect benefits not only communities but also businesses, who gain access to markets shaped by cultural nuance and co-design.

Muslim Leadership & Values in Business

Speaking directly to Muslim professionals at Elevate, Tasneem highlights the unique value that Muslim leaders can bring.

“Our lived experience as minorities in systems not built for our success is an accomplishment against the odds,” she reflects.

“We must expand our tribe and carry forward values of integrity, respect and justice – principles that are both ethical and deeply rooted in our faith.”

For Tasneem, upholding these values in the face of external pressures is not negotiable. “Being a good Muslim and a good Australian are two sides of the same coin. Having the courage of our convictions in business allows us to reclaim our narrative on our terms.”

Looking Ahead

So, what does the next decade hold for leaders willing to embrace DEI? Tasneem is clear: the biggest opportunity lies in adopting an intersectional lens – one that considers not just gender, but race, religion, age and more. Leaders who do this will not only create stronger, fairer workplaces but will also outperform their competitors.

Her message for attendees at Elevate is simple yet profound: “Inclusion is a long game. We cannot be complacent or pull the ladder up behind us. The work of justice is ongoing – and it begins with paying forward the opportunities we have been given.”

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