Every June, organizations celebrate Pride Month to honor LGBTQ+ identities and recommit to meaningful inclusion. Yet the real impact comes from elevating the voices driving progress all year long. Here are four dynamic PRIDE keynote speakers—represented by Gotham Artists—whose stories, expertise, and energy can electrify any stage.
Sam Rad — Tech Futurist with a Human Soul
Sam Radocchia (Sam Rad) fuses the mindset of an anthropologist with the vision of a technologist, guiding audiences through “radical next” futures. A former professional skydiver turned blockchain pioneer, she delivers insights with the charisma of a rockstar and the calm confidence of a seasoned adventurer. Sam’s candid, clever storytelling distills complex topics like AI, Web3, and the future of work into practical takeaways that empower organizations to thrive amid accelerating change.
Why book Sam?
- Translates emerging tech into human-centered strategies
- Encourages creative risk-taking and adaptability
- Leaves teams energized, informed, and ready to lead the future
M Abeo — Radical Visibility for Mental Health
M Abeo (they / she / he) is a mental-health advocate, speaker, and creator of the acclaimed Faces of Fortitude portrait series. What began as a photographic exploration of suicide loss and survival has evolved into traveling gallery exhibits, TEDx talks, and a heartfelt podcast. Blending lived experience with a love of plants as self-care, M creates “brave spaces” where audiences confront stigma, celebrate resilience, and discover new avenues for healing.
Why book M?
- Sparks honest conversations around suicide, trauma, and LGBTQ+ identity
- Models inclusive language and multi-gender pronouns in action
- Offers tangible self-care tools audiences can use immediately
Marissa Bode — Intersectional Representation on Stage and Screen
Actor and artist Marissa Bode made history as the first wheelchair-using performer to portray Nessarose in the film adaptation of Wicked. Her breakthrough role—and her advocacy around it—are poised to become a watershed moment for authentic disability representation in Hollywood. Marissa speaks passionately about accessibility, trans visibility, and the power of seeing yourself reflected in media, inspiring organizations to move beyond compliance toward true inclusion.
Why book Marissa?
- Illuminates the lived realities of disabled and trans communities
- Demonstrates how authentic casting benefits both art and audiences
- Challenges companies to rethink accessibility as innovation, not obligation
Ben O’Keefe — Storyteller, Strategist, Changemaker
Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree Ben O’Keefe is an award-winning writer, producer, and activist driving cultural change across entertainment and politics. He has shaped campaigns for Alicia Keys, Amazon Studios, and Senator Elizabeth Warren, and even landed on the Academy’s shortlist for Best Live Action Short Film. Ben’s fearless honesty and cultural fluency help audiences unpack systemic barriers, harness inclusive storytelling, and turn values into action.
Why book Ben?
- Bridges pop culture, policy, and DEI with riveting narratives
- Equips leaders to craft campaigns that resonate and mobilize
- Inspires teams to move conversations—and culture—forward
Bring Pride to Your Stage—Year-Round
These speakers do more than check a Pride-Month box; they ignite lasting transformation. Whether you’re planning a DEI summit, leadership retreat, or industry conference, their insights will motivate audiences to reimagine belonging, innovation, and bravery.
Ready to elevate your next event? Visit GothamArtists.com to learn more or secure a date with any of these extraordinary voices.
