In the world of events and brand storytelling, social media influencers are no longer just digital trendsetters. They’re powerful communicators who know how to capture attention, drive real-world engagement, and make messages stick. That’s why more organisations are turning to influencers when planning internal events, campaigns, or company-wide initiatives.

And it’s not just fashion, beauty, or media. Today’s influencer landscape is rich with niche voices: from B2B thought leaders and tradespeople in home renovation, to creators who talk about trains, finance, tech, parenting, and sustainability. If it exists, there’s likely an influencer doing it well, and with a loyal, highly targeted audience.

No matter your sector, there’s an influencer who speaks your audience’s language. So what makes them so effective as speakers?

What Is a Social Media Influencer?

A social media influencer (sometimes called a content creator) is someone who has built a strong presence on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, or Twitter. What sets them apart is their ability to influence the opinions, behaviours, and purchasing decisions of their audience—often through authenticity and storytelling rather than polished corporate messaging.

They don’t just follow trends; they help set them. As the BBC explains in their guide to influencers, these people can play a big role in shaping public opinion, driving consumer behaviour, and amplifying causes.

» READ MORE: Speaker vs Influencer: Who Should You Book for Your Next Event?

Why Book a Social Media Influencer?

Unlike traditional celebrities or executives, influencers build deep, personal connections with their audiences. They bring emotional credibility and cultural fluency that corporate voices often can’t match. For event organisers, this offers:

  • Authenticity: Influencers speak from lived experience, not polished scripts
  • Trend fluency: They’re immersed in what’s current—and connect it back to your audience’s world
  • Community reach: Many will share event insights with their followers, increasing exposure
  • Digital-first identity: Booking one signals that your brand is modern, inclusive, and audience-aware
  • Emotional impact: Their stories are often deeply personal, making them powerful messengers

Whether you’re planning a wellness week, financial literacy campaign, International Women’s Day event, or a forward-looking business summit, these speakers bring depth and reach in equal measure.

Sophie Morgan

View Sophie's profile

Sophie Morgan is a BAFTA-nominated broadcaster and one of the UK’s most recognised disability rights advocates. After a car accident at 18 left her paralysed, she built a remarkable media career, reporting on global events including the Paralympics and producing groundbreaking documentaries on accessibility. She is the force behind Rights on Flights, a campaign demanding accountability from airlines over the treatment of disabled passengers. Sophie’s speaking style is impactful, thoughtful, and rooted in lived experience.

Sharmadean Reid

View Sharmadean's profile

Sharmadean is a visionary entrepreneur and investor with a track record of building platforms that support women in leadership and business. She began her journey by launching WAH Nails, a pioneering creative brand that redefined beauty culture in the UK. Later, she founded FutureGirlCorp and Beautystack, platforms focused on upskilling and empowering women in the digital economy. Her talks focus on innovation, diversity, tech, and creating systems of economic empowerment.

Steph Elswood

View Steph's profile

Steph is a wellness advocate and content creator who first found her platform by speaking openly about her recovery from an eating disorder. Over time, her message has expanded to include mental health, body confidence, sober living, and sustainable lifestyles. Her large and loyal audience values her vulnerability and straight-talking approach. Steph also runs retreats and online communities that offer support for those looking to live a healthier, more balanced life.

The Carvajalino Sisters

View Daniella, Karen, and Stephanie's profile

Daniella, Karen, and Stephanie Carvajalino are three Colombian sisters and serial entrepreneurs who co-founded The Biz Nation, a digital learning platform aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and digital skills in Latin America. Their work focuses on bridging education gaps and championing youth and female empowerment. Known for their high-energy, bilingual sessions, they are especially effective in global settings where inclusion and innovation are key themes.

Winnie Sun

View Winnie's profile

Winnie Sun is a nationally recognised financial advisor and media personality with deep expertise in personal finance and economic wellbeing. She frequently appears on CNBC, Forbes, Fox Business, and LinkedIn Live, and built her financial practice from the ground up as a first-generation college graduate from an immigrant family. She speaks with clarity and empathy about topics like financial security, career transitions, debt, and budgeting—making her ideal for wellbeing programs and DEI initiatives.

Final Thoughts

Social media influencers with a mission-led or commercial niche bring more than just digital reach. They bring a unique ability to connect, inspire, and activate audiences through personal storytelling and cultural awareness. If your next event needs a speaker who feels real, relevant, and ready to engage—this is where to start.

Need help choosing the right speaker?

Email us at hello@getapeptalk.com, message us via the chat, or call:

+44 20 3835 2929 (UK) | +1 737 888 5112 (US)

Written by Josie Kent
Josie is PepTalk’s Senior Talent and Engagement Manager. Having worked at PepTalk for almost 5 years, she’s one of our longest-serving team members and has held a range of exciting roles across the business. Josie holds BA in English Language and an MA in Human Resource Management, focusing on employee engagement and learning & development.