Idris Elba is a multi-award-winning British actor, filmmaker, and musician whose career spans global blockbusters, critically acclaimed dramas, and groundbreaking creative ventures. From The Wire and Luther to Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom and Beasts of No Nation, Idris has become one of the most versatile and influential voices in entertainment. Named by Time as one of the 100 most influential people in the world, his work continues to shape how stories of identity, ambition, and resilience are told.
Beyond acting, Idris is a DJ and producer under the name “Big Driis,” performing at global festivals including Coachella and Glastonbury. He has directed and produced original films and series, launched creative enterprises across music and tech, and is a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and representation in the creative industries. In 2016, he was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his services to drama.
At BRIDGE Summit, Idris will share his journey of creative reinvention; how storytelling, cultural exchange, and cross-disciplinary collaboration can bridge industries and inspire the next generation of creators and innovators.
As the global content landscape shifts from a handful of gatekeepers to millions of creators, a new question emerges: who gets to shape culture, and on whose terms? Idris Elba challenges the industry to widen the circle—to empower diverse storytellers, elevate new voices, and rebuild a media ecosystem where creativity is accessible, human, and connected. At a moment when technology accelerates content but fractures community, he calls for a renewed commitment to empathy and authenticity, reminding us that democratising creation is ultimately about restoring the human heartbeat at the center of global culture.
Founder, The Kings League
President & CEO, Africa Leadership and Dialogue Institute
Department Chair & Professor of Human-Computer Interaction, Mohammed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence
Software Engineer & Tech Content Creator, Techmama
Deputy Editor-in-Chief, RT, Head, RT Arabic TV Channel
“One BRIDGE to unite them all. BRIDGE Summit looks to become the largest cross-sector media event in the world.”
“A gateway for knowledge exchange.”
“A summit to BRIDGE the gaps in the global media ecosystem.”
“We are proud to take part in the inaugural edition of BRIDGE Summit.”
“Un pont pour tous les réunir.”
