Still I Rise Stories is a storytelling and narrative-led inclusion practice that helps organisations strengthen belonging through the power of lived experience. We believe that meaningful inclusion starts with listening to real stories, and we work with teams to create structured, respectful spaces where those stories can be shared, heard, and turned into insight that drives cultural change.

Our work focuses on using storytelling as a practical tool for inclusion, leadership development, and organisational learning. Through facilitated workshops, guided storytelling sessions, and curated narrative projects, we help individuals and groups explore identity, lived experience, and belonging in a way that is accessible, human, and impactful. These sessions are designed to surface perspectives that are often underrepresented, enabling organisations to better understand the realities within their teams and communities.

We support organisations by designing and delivering storytelling programmes tailored to their needs. This includes facilitating safe spaces for sharing personal narratives, developing internal storytelling frameworks, supporting EDI and engagement initiatives, and helping organisations translate stories into actionable cultural insight. Our approach encourages empathy, connection, and reflection, while also giving leaders practical tools to improve communication and inclusion.

Rather than treating inclusion as a policy exercise, we focus on experience-led change -helping organisations move from intention to impact. By embedding storytelling into everyday culture, teams can build stronger trust, deeper understanding, and a clearer sense of shared purpose.

Still I Rise founder Orla McKeating has been widely recognised for her work in entrepreneurship, social impact, and inclusive storytelling. Her achievements reflect a sustained commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices, fostering diversity, and creating positive change in business, education, and community spaces. These accolades celebrate both her professional excellence and her dedication to empowering others.

Author & Project Lead, Belfast (2025) A children’s book celebrating diversity created with under-represented children and families, spotlighting representation, belonging, and the city’s rich diversity; Contributing Author, Diverse Educators: A Manifesto (2022); Small Business Britain Top 100 (2025); Education for All, Northern Ireland Hummingbird Awards (2025); Educator of the Year, Sheroes Global Awards (2024); Finalist – Belfast Business Idea Awards for Still I Rise Diversity Storytelling (2022);
Finalist – Women Who Have Overcome Adversity, Ulster Tatler Awards (2022); Finalist – UK Positive Role Model, National Diversity Awards (2021); Acumen Academy Fellow (UK) – first Northern Ireland Fellow (2021); Featured in Diverse In Global’s 145 Inspiring Women Leaders (2020);
#iAlso f:Entrepreneur Top 100 (2019); Digital DNA Podcast of the Year (2019); Northern Ireland 40 Under 40 (2018)