Liz Adekunle, whose full name is Elizabeth Adekunle, has become a highly respected figure within the Church of England and beyond. Born in 1977, she grew up in a multicultural Britain that was itself undergoing social change and grappling with the realities of diversity. From a young age she displayed a strong sense of curiosity and a gift for communication, qualities that would later serve her well in ministry. Her upbringing nurtured an appreciation for both faith and learning, and she showed an early inclination towards theological study.
Her formal education began at the University of Birmingham, where she pursued theology. The rigorous academic environment allowed her to deepen her understanding of scripture, Christian tradition, and the complex relationship between faith and society. She later went on to postgraduate work at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in London, where she focused on African Christianity, exploring how culture and belief intersect across continents. This combination of British and global perspectives gave her a rare ability to connect with people from many backgrounds. Adekunle then continued her studies at Cambridge, specialising in pastoral care, and trained for ordination at Ridley Hall, one of the university’s most respected theological colleges. These academic foundations provided her with both intellectual depth and pastoral sensitivity, two qualities that would define her career.
The Path to Ordination
Entering ordained ministry was not a decision Liz Adekunle took lightly. The Church of England, while welcoming more women into ministry, still presented challenges for those from ethnic minority backgrounds. Adekunle recognised these realities and chose to face them with courage and determination. After completing her theological training, she began her ministry as a curate, serving her parish and honing her skills as both preacher and pastoral leader.
Her early years in ministry demonstrated her capacity to blend tradition with contemporary insight. Adekunle’s sermons were noted for their clarity and her ability to speak to people of all ages and walks of life. Whether she was guiding young families, supporting the elderly, or engaging with people who felt distant from church, she carried a calm authority and an empathetic presence.
Chaplaincy at St John’s College, Cambridge
In 2011, Liz Adekunle took on the role of Chaplain at St John’s College, Cambridge. This position placed her at the heart of one of the world’s most intellectually demanding institutions. As Chaplain, she supported students and staff in their spiritual and personal development, offering guidance during times of stress and transition.
Her work went beyond the traditional duties of a college chaplain. Adekunle organised services, led discussions on faith and ethics, and became a trusted confidante for those navigating both academic and personal challenges. This period further refined her ability to communicate across generational and cultural boundaries. It also reinforced her commitment to creating spaces where people of all faiths and none could explore the deeper questions of life.
Archdeacon of Hackney
Perhaps the most public phase of Liz Adekunle’s career came in 2016, when she was appointed Archdeacon of Hackney in the Diocese of London. The Archdeaconry of Hackney covers a diverse and vibrant area of the capital, encompassing communities of many cultures, faiths, and economic backgrounds. In this senior leadership role, Adekunle was responsible for supporting clergy, overseeing church buildings, and encouraging mission and outreach in a challenging urban context.
Her appointment was a significant moment, both personally and for the wider Church of England. As a Black female priest in a senior position, she became a visible example of the church’s growing inclusivity. Adekunle often spoke about the importance of representation and the need for the Church to address the realities of racial injustice. Her leadership style combined quiet strength with a willingness to confront difficult truths, earning her admiration from colleagues and parishioners alike.
Service to the Royal Household
In 2017, Liz Adekunle was appointed as a Chaplain to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, an honour that recognised her outstanding service and contribution to the Church. Following the passing of the Queen, she continues in the Royal Household as a Chaplain to His Majesty the King. This role involves offering spiritual counsel and participating in significant national and royal occasions. It reflects both her personal integrity and the respect she commands at the highest levels of church and state.
Advocacy for Racial Justice and Inclusion
Throughout her ministry, Adekunle has been an outspoken advocate for racial equality within the Church of England. She has addressed the systemic barriers faced by Black clergy and has urged the church to acknowledge its history and work actively towards change. Her reflections are not rooted in criticism alone but in a constructive call to embody the Gospel’s message of justice and reconciliation.
By sharing her own experiences, she has helped others understand the subtle and overt challenges that ethnic minority clergy can face. Her voice has encouraged the church to create fairer structures and to value the gifts of all its members, regardless of background. This advocacy continues to inspire a new generation of church leaders and laypeople who are committed to a more inclusive future.
Broadening Influence Beyond the Church
Liz Adekunle’s influence extends beyond strictly ecclesiastical circles. In recent years she has taken on roles that connect her with wider society. She serves as an Independent Non-Executive Director at the Berkeley Group, a leading UK property developer, and as a Non-Executive Director at The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust. These appointments reflect her ability to offer ethical insight and governance expertise in complex organisational settings.
Her presence in these roles demonstrates that faith leaders can make meaningful contributions to sectors such as healthcare and business. By bringing her values of integrity, service, and compassion into these contexts, Adekunle exemplifies how spiritual leadership can enrich public life.
Personal Qualities and Legacy
Those who have worked alongside Liz Adekunle often speak of her warmth, wisdom, and capacity to listen deeply. She embodies a form of leadership that is both principled and approachable. Her life shows that faith is not confined to the walls of a church but can be a force for transformation in every sphere of society.
Her career is also a reminder that representation matters. For young women, and particularly for those from Black or minority ethnic backgrounds, seeing someone like Adekunle in positions of authority within the Church of England offers a powerful model of what is possible.
Conclusion
Liz Adekunle’s journey from theology student to Archdeacon, Royal Chaplain, and respected non-executive director tells a story of faith, perseverance, and vision. She has not only served the Church with distinction but has also become a public voice for inclusion and justice. Her work in academia, parish ministry, college chaplaincy, and senior church leadership illustrates the many ways in which one person can make a profound difference.
In an age when institutions are being challenged to reflect the diversity of the communities they serve, Liz Adekunle stands as a living testament to what thoughtful, courageous leadership can achieve. Her example continues to inspire those who seek to combine spiritual depth with practical action, proving that the call to ministry can resonate far beyond the pulpit and into the heart of society itself.
