Robinson is a trailblazing advocate and leader in the fight for human rights—she is the first Black, queer woman to hold the position of HRC President, leading the largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization in the United States. In 2024, Robinson was named as one of Time’s 100 most influential people. She will bring a fresh perspective and diverse expertise to global discussions alongside the World Economic Forum and her Young Global Leaders cohort. 

Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson released the following statement: 

“This recognition comes at a pivotal moment when communities worldwide face unprecedented challenges to freedom and opportunity. I’m profoundly honored to be selected alongside such accomplished global leaders across business, politics, technology and the arts. At the Human Rights Campaign, we witness daily how the struggle for LGBTQ+ freedom and liberation impacts real lives. 

“From reimagining global health systems to shaping the future of education, from driving sustainable economic growth to advancing justice, HRC stands ready to contribute to the most critical conversations of our time. We're not just participating in these discussions—we're helping to reframe them, bringing fresh perspectives that can lead to more comprehensive, effective solutions and systems change. In a world grappling with complex, interconnected challenges, we must work toward a shared vision that is inherently inclusive, innovative, and impactful.”

With over 15 years of experience, Robinson has spearheaded numerous successful campaigns for LGBTQ+, racial, and gender equity. By overseeing an organization with well over three million members, Robinson has brought together business, government and civil society to influence policy that advances equality for the LGBTQ+ community. With a deep understanding of the importance of public-private partnerships, Robinson has expanded HRC’s corporate sector partnerships using groundbreaking resources and tools like the HRC Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index to provide the frameworks and best practices to implement and advance a more inclusive workforce. 

The Human Rights Campaign is an organization that strives for every LGBTQ+ person to live openly, safely and equally around the world—that mission aligns with the Young Global Leader’s goal of advancing a more inclusive and sustainable economic future for stakeholders. For more than 25 years, HRC has led work with global businesses to support LGBTQ+ employees and consumers, and through that expertise the organization offers a unique lens through which to view and address global challenges. HRC’s work demonstrates that advancing inclusivity and equality are also fundamental economic drivers across all sectors.

Visit www.younggloballeaders.org for more information and follow the hashtags on X and Instagram #WEF and #YGL25.