A powerful advocate for mental health, OCD awareness, and neurodiversity, Oly has reached over 30,000 people worldwide through talks and training. As founder of LightsOnXP and director at Run4YourMind, Oly creates impactful wellbeing programs and MHFA-accredited training that make mental health support more visible and accessible. Drawing from personal experience with severe mental illness, Oly brings authenticity and passion to every session.
Which talk/panel did you speak at?
Builders
Can you share a bit about your background?
I lost over 10 years of my life to mental illness. Running handed me a lifeline, and speaking out enabled me to truly live. We all have a story — and sharing ours helps others feel far less alone in theirs. I’m on a mission to work with organisations to spark more conversations, build better cultures, and support the next generation through our corporate social responsibility model.
What inspired you to speak at EVOLVE [25]?
Invited by Steve through Fiaz
What was the key message or idea you most wanted the audience to take away from your talk?
We are stronger together
Were there any audience reactions or questions that really stood out to you?
Many people came up to me after and could relate, whether it be in themselves or their kids.
How does the topic you spoke about connect to your current work or passion projects?
Everything I do falls in the mental health space, we deliver talks, and back it up with accredited training, and have a full learning experience platform for SME’s that is powered by real life experiences.
What emerging trends or challenges in tech (or your field) are you most excited about right now?
AI
What advice would you give to someone looking to make an impact in your area of expertise?
Get comfortable feeling uncomfortable
How do you see the future evolving in your industry over the next few years?
There’s no doubt we’re in a mental health crisis, we must keep talking, creating real conversations, and better understand our next generation.
What was your favourite part of the EVOLVE experience?
Meeting great people
What’s next for you? Any upcoming projects, initiatives, or goals you’re excited to share?
We’ve just launched our community Learning Experience Platform (LXP), which offers real talks, training, and conversations — all broadcast through the platform and app. It also includes e-learning, videos, and a library of resources.
What’s one book, podcast, or resource that’s inpired you recently?
The Go Giver
How can people connect with you or follow your work after the event?
Oly Newton on LinkedIn or Run4YourMind on Instagram
Anything else you would like to share with our community?
Let’s keep talking