Ria Lina
Award-winning comedian and PhD scientist delivering sharp, fearless comedy and insightful talks on neurodiversity and STEM.
Award-winning comedian and PhD scientist delivering sharp, fearless comedy and insightful talks on neurodiversity and STEM.
Ria Lina is a multi-award-winning comedian, writer, actor and academic who brings intelligence, humour and clarity to every stage she steps on. With a background in science and a PhD in Virology, she delivers talks that are as insightful as they are entertaining. Whether hosting conferences, moderating panels or delivering keynotes on neurodiversity and STEM, Ria connects with audiences through sharp observations, engaging storytelling and a natural stage presence that keeps the energy high throughout.
Ria Lina is an accomplished comedian, actress, writer and academic with a rare ability to engage, inform and entertain diverse audiences. Her work spans television, radio, live performance and public speaking, where she is known for her fearless comedy, sharp intellect and dynamic delivery. Whether appearing on screen or hosting a major event, Ria brings a distinctive voice that combines humour with substance.
Her extensive media presence includes appearances on Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News For You, QI, Mock The Week and The Last Leg. She is also a regular co-host on Pointless and has featured on The News Quiz, The Now Show, Late Night Mash and Lovestruck High. These appearances have established her as a recognisable and trusted figure who can both entertain and challenge audiences.
Ria’s experience as a performer translates seamlessly into her work as a conference host and facilitator. In 2025 and 2026, she undertook two highly successful national tours, reinforcing her reputation as a captivating MC. She works effortlessly with varied audiences, bringing energy, intelligence and humour to every event.
Her hosting style is confident and quick-thinking, ensuring smooth transitions, engaging discussions and a lively atmosphere. Ria understands how to read a room and adapt her approach, making her an ideal choice for conferences, award shows and panel discussions.
Diagnosed with autism, Ria Lina offers a compelling and personal perspective on neurodiversity. As a keynote speaker, she combines lived experience with academic expertise, creating talks that resonate deeply with audiences. Her ability to translate complex ideas into relatable insights makes her particularly valuable for organisations looking to foster inclusion and understanding.
Her STEM background further strengthens her speaking profile. With a BSc in Experimental Pathology, an MSc in Forensic Science and a PhD in Virology, Ria brings credibility and depth to scientific and technology-focused events. In 2025, she drew on this expertise to present Ria Lina Gets Forensic on BBC Radio 4, showcasing her ability to communicate science in an engaging and accessible way.
Beyond entertainment, Ria is a respected commentator across major media platforms. She regularly appears on Sky News, BBC News and Times Radio, offering perspectives that blend scientific insight, political satire and analytical thinking. This breadth of experience allows her to contribute meaningfully to discussions on current affairs, science and society.
Her achievements also include winning Celebrity Mastermind and co-hosting shows such as Yesterday, Today & The Day Before and Richard Hammond’s Brain Reaction. She has appeared in Countdown’s Dictionary Corner, further demonstrating her versatility and quick wit.
Ria Lina stands out as a speaker and host who brings both substance and entertainment to the stage. Her unique combination of comedy, academic expertise and media experience ensures that audiences remain engaged while gaining valuable insights.
She is particularly well-suited for:
Ria’s ability to connect with audiences, deliver complex ideas with clarity and keep the atmosphere lively makes her a strong choice for a wide range of events. Her presence adds both credibility and character, ensuring that every event she is part of is memorable and impactful.
Keynote by Ria Lina:
Struggling to keep your audience engaged while tackling complex topics like science, technology or neurodiversity?
Ria Lina transforms that challenge into a powerful experience. With her rare blend of sharp comedy and scientific expertise, she delivers keynotes that captivate, educate and leave a lasting impression. Backed by a PhD in Virology and extensive media experience, Ria makes even the most intricate subjects accessible, relatable and genuinely engaging.
Her talks don’t just inform—they connect. Drawing on her personal experience with autism, she brings authenticity and depth to conversations around inclusion and neurodiversity, while her quick wit keeps energy levels high throughout.
If you want a keynote that resonates beyond the room, sparks conversation and elevates your event, Ria Lina delivers exactly that—with intelligence, humour and impact.
Ria Lina can speak on the following topics: