Engaging Keynotes and Workshops on Light, Health, and Performance
Book Shelley James for your next event, conference, or team workshop to inspire and educate your audience on the science of lighting and its impact on wellbeing, productivity, and learning.
Most People Underestimate the Power of Light
Light is often overlooked – seen as purely functional or aesthetic. But science shows it’s a powerful tool that affects:
Sleep quality and circadian rhythms
Focus, learning, and cognitive performance
Mental health, mood, and behaviour
Workplace productivity and wellbeing
Meet Shelley James
Shelley James is a TEDx speaker and global thought leader in lighting and health. Her engaging, accessible presentations translate complex science into insights your audience can apply immediately.
She has spoken for:
- TEDx
- EuroLuce
- IALD
- Leading healthcare organisations, and corporations worldwide
Whether delivering a keynote at a major conference or a tailored workshop for your team, Shelley combines rigorous research with storytelling and humour to leave a lasting impact.
Speaking Topics and Workshops
Tailored to Your Audience
Shelley speaks on topics including:
Light for Healthy Ageing
Lighting for Learning
Boost Workplace Productivity
Biophilic Lighting Design
Lighting for Neurodiversity
/ Inspire. Equip. Transform.
Inspire Change With Science-Based, Actionable Insights
Audiences leave Shelley’s talks feeling:
- Inspired by the science behind lighting and wellbeing
- Equipped with practical tips they can implement immediately
- Motivated to create healthier, high-performing environments
Trusted by leaders in productivity,
healthcare and education

" A great session !- super-practical and full of cool facts too, the conversation was really interesting and engaging at all times. The session was over booked and the room was packed with colleagues from every level in the organisation. We all left with a better sense of what might work better for ourselves and other people, we learnt about the impact and importance of light exposure and how this is related to our mental and physical health. ... The session with Dr. Shelley was enlightening and my colleagues came away buzzing and excited to put some of the tips into practice at home and in the office. "
Andrea Burnett
We have loved working with Shelley: we value especially her rigour and generous-spirited creativity. She literally sheds light on the subject of human thriving and wellbeing - people go away from her sessions with a host of new illuminating insights.
Tracy Camilleri
Working with Dr. Shelley James was a great experience. While she has the knowledge of a researcher, she has the time management skills of a business person. Always professional, courteous, knowledgeable--and on time!
Randy Reid
Shelley advanced the role of lighting in a compelling way -- touching on wellbeing and productivity, and how light can improve sleep, resolve conflict, reduce back pain and support shift work.
Jeremy Myerson
I first met Shelley when she launched her Luna Golightly campaign. Since then we have found numerous ways to collaborate and what fun it is. With me being firmly and squarely in the commercial and technical segment of the lighting industry, it’s wonderful to work with Shelley as she brings deep knowledge of the latest and historical science and research related to light and lighting, along with a sharp mind and eye for creating actionable insights. Her industry reputation and credibility precede her and she is a proper team player who conducts herself with integrity. These qualities combine to make Shelley a formidable commercial partner and industry colleague.
Pete Earle
I had heard about Dr. Shelley James, affectionately known as 'The Light Lady,' even before assuming my role at The Lighting Industry Association. Renowned as a trusted academic in our field, she has a remarkable ability to distil complex lighting concepts into clear, relatable insights for a much wider audience. Her wealth of research and expertise in quality lighting, particularly its impacts on health and well-being, is an invaluable resource to The LIA. It’s always a delight to meet her at industry events and experience the warmth and professionalism she brings to those she organises. Her commitment to improving the industry and advancing the understanding of lighting's role in our lives is truly inspiring.
Ayça Donaghy
Dr Shelley James is a great addition to the design team. In her work, she considers not just the lighting proposals but also the wider implications of the project, such as energy efficiency, inclusive design, and the building users’ well-being.
Zane Putne
Book Shelley for Your Next Event
Deliver a keynote or workshop that enlightens, inspires, and drives real change in your organisation.