Matthew Friedman’s Story

Matthew S. Friedman stands as one of the most prominent global experts on modern slavery and human trafficking, a field he has shaped through 30 years of pioneering work across Nepal, Bangladesh, Thailand, Hong Kong, and beyond. His combination of deep field experience, strategic advisory roles, and compelling communication style makes him an indispensable voice for audiences seeking clarity, direction, and inspiration on one of the world’s most urgent humanitarian issues.

An award-winning public speaker, author, filmmaker, and philanthropist, Matthew regularly advises heads of governments, intelligence agencies, multinationals, and international institutions. As the founder and CEO of The Mekong Club, he is recognized by business leaders as a driving force behind Asia’s private-sector movement against modern slavery. His work has helped shape not only awareness but also concrete action within industries that hold the power to influence global supply chains and labor conditions.

Book Matthew Friedman for Your Event

Organizations turn to Matthew because he brings both authority and accessibility to a topic often described as overwhelming. He has delivered more than 1,100 presentations to over 150,000 audience members across different countries, including government leaders and the Vatican, within a five-year period. This body of work earned him the prestigious Asia Communicator of the Year Gold Award in 2017, highlighting his ability to deliver difficult truths with clarity, empathy, and impact.

Matthew’s speaking style is unique. He breaks down the complexities of modern slavery into understandable, memorable insights that guide audiences through awareness, shock, reflection, and most importantly, hope. Whether speaking to high-level policymakers, industry executives, students, or frontline professionals, he leaves listeners with a sense of purpose and the tools to engage meaningfully with the issue.

A Global Leader with Proven Impact

Matthew’s influence stretches far beyond the stage. Over his career, he has directed tens of millions of dollars to major humanitarian portfolios for the World Bank, the U.S. State Department, and the United Nations. These initiatives have directly impacted millions of people, strengthening systems, protecting vulnerable communities, and expanding the global fight against human trafficking.

His insights are consistently sought by major media outlets such as CNN, Reuters, Bloomberg, the Financial Times, the Economist, and the Associated Press. On average, he is cited at least 40 times each year, reflecting the trust placed in his expertise and grounded perspective.

Matthew’s extensive network spans governments, corporations, NGOs, and multilateral agencies, built through decades of on-the-ground experience and strategic leadership. His ability to connect these worlds gives him a panoramic understanding of modern slavery, how it operates, how it evolves, and where real solutions can emerge.

A Multifaceted Storyteller and Thought Leader

Matthew is the author of 15 books, ranging from action-driven novels and non-fiction accounts of his human rights work to an exploration of his personal philosophy on the nature of time. His storytelling extends to film as well. He served as an executive producer and advisor on four award-winning films, including one Emmy-nominated project and another executive-produced by Emma Thompson. His work in media reflects his belief that storytelling can shift hearts, minds, and public will.

As a speaker, Matthew draws on these creative pursuits to deliver keynotes that feel immersive and deeply human. He uses real-life stories, visual metaphors, and sharp insights to guide audiences through emotional and intellectual discovery. Even those initially resistant to the subject often leave transformed, equipped with a clearer understanding of the issue and a renewed sense of agency.

A Life Shared in Purpose

Matthew’s commitment to combating modern slavery is shared with his wife, Sylvia Yu Friedman, an award-winning journalist, filmmaker, international speaker, and author known for Silenced No More: Voices of Comfort Women. Together, they amplify global awareness and action. In the summer of 2016, they delivered 113 presentations across 27 U.S. cities in just 70 days, reaching communities nationwide with their message.

Why Audiences Choose Matthew

Matthew Friedman is a catalyst for human connection, responsibility, and hope. His talks offer more than information, they spark personal transformation. Audiences leave with a deeper understanding of the realities of modern slavery, an expanded sense of possibility, and a clear call to leadership in their own spheres of influence.

Booking Matthew means bringing sophistication, humanity, and emotional resonance to your event. It means giving your audience access to one of the world’s most respected voices on modern slavery, leadership, and human potential.