Psychological Safety and Belonging: Neuroscience that Leaders Can’t Afford to Ignore

In conversations about workplace culture, psychological safety is perhaps not discussed as frequently as it should be. In reality it’s the foundation for innovation, inclusion and high performance. 

Psychological safety refers to an environment where people feel comfortable being themselves, speaking up, taking risks, and making mistakes without fear of judgment or negative consequences. It’s about creating the conditions for people to bring their full selves to work, meaning that they can be more productive and happier. 

At the core of psychological safety is a sense of belonging. 

According to ICMI speaker and behavioural scientist Milo Wilkinson, psychological safety and belonging are two sides of the same coin. When people feel accepted, valued and connected, they’re more likely to contribute, challenge ideas, and collaborate openly. And when they feel safe to do those things, a sense of belonging follows.

Discover the Neuroscience of Belonging

In her keynote The Neuroscience of Belonging: Designing Leadership That Connects, Milo takes leaders beyond theory and into the science of why this matters. She reveals how the brain processes exclusion like physical pain, and why belonging is a biological driver, not just a cultural one.

“Belonging is not a soft skill,” Milo says. “It’s a survival need. And it directly impacts performance, loyalty, and leadership outcomes.”

Through behavioural research and neuroscience,, Milo equips leaders with the insight and practical tools they need to lead differently.

In her keynotes, Milo helps organisations and leaders discover how belonging is the next step in the psychological safety conversation. She explore subtle but powerful leadership behaviours that build connection and trust, and how to understand the neuroscience of bias, trust and inclusion. Audiences can walk away with a practical action plan to embed belonging into team culture and everyday decision-making.

Insights to Drive Positive Impact in Your Workplace

A sense of belonging is a key driver of retention, engagement and innovation. Without it, psychological safety can’t exist. And without psychological safety, your team can’t perform at its best.

When psychological safety and belonging are both present, people are more likely to speak up, and contribute ideas. There’s greater trust, resilience and connection, especially in uncertain or high-pressure environments.

In a time of change fatigue and shifting expectations in the workforce, this keynote is an insightful, actionable reminder that leadership isn’t just about outcomes, but the environment that we create for our teams. 

View Milo Wilkinson’s Profile Here 

To book Milo for your next conference or event, make an enquiry here.