Table of Contents
Introduction
Are you struggling to find dynamic speakers who can genuinely connect with and inspire your diverse audience?
Many event organizers face the challenge of selecting speakers who not only captivate but also resonate deeply with attendees.
Dive into our article to discover eight influential young Black motivational speakers who can elevate your next event and ensure its success.
Young Black Motivational Speakers Profiles
We’ve handpicked some of the best young Black speaker options for your event. Got a favorite? Click the blue button below to inquire.
Aisha Harris: Co-host of NPR’s Pop Culture Happy Hour & Author of “Wannabe”
Aisha is a co-host and reporter for the NPR podcast Pop Culture Happy Hour. She previously covered the arts as a critic, editor, and podcaster for The New York Times and Slate Magazine. Her subjects have included film and TV criticism, artist interviews, and cultural reporting/essays, and she has appeared on numerous radio and TV programs as a cultural commentator. She earned her bachelor’s degree in theatre from Northwestern University and her master’s degree in cinema studies from New York University.
Charity Blackwell: TED Speaker, Host, Emcee, Poetry Specialist
Charity Blackwell is a spoken word artist, host, emcee, and poetry specialist who has spent several years contributing to the arts scene in DC and across national platforms. She is a Trinity University graduate, where she received her B.A and M.A, for Communications. She is the Director of Creative Arts and Education at the arts and sports nonprofit DC SCORES and the D.O.P.E (Director of Poetry Events) at the well renowned DC arts cultural hub, Busboys and Poets.
John Imah: Entrepreneur, Tech Advisor, Gaming & Brand Strategy Expert
John Imah is the Head of Brand & Games Partnerships at Snap Inc. John has led massive teams at scale and has been employed at some of the world’s biggest tech companies, including Facebook/Instagram, Snapchat, Amazon, and Twitch, where he worked with top brands, agencies, celebrities, and influencers. John currently serves as an executive at Snapchat, leading overseeing Snapchat’s Gaming and Brand strategy, partnerships, and business development. He is also a tech advisor for start-ups and many of Hollywood’s A-list celebrities, such as Kevin Hart, Martin Lawrence, The Boondocks’ creator Aaron McGruder, and many more.
Metro Boomin: Producer & Go-To Collaborator for Rap Stars like Future, Wiz Khalifa and Migos
Metro Boomin has been one of the most in-demand producers in hip-hop since he was 19 years old. Working with the likes of Kanye West, Drake, Nicki Minaj, Future, Migos, Young Thug, and more, there is nobody more trusted by the hip-hop elite. But it doesn’t stop there. Metro wants to share his story and message of his life beyond the beat. As CEO of his own label and creator of his own clothing line, Metro can speak with students about his rise as an entrepreneur.
Evelyn from the Internets: YouTube Star
YouTube personality who is known for her Evelyn From The Internets channel. She has earned massive popularity there for her personal vlogging, including lifestyle entries, haircare and beauty tutorials, and travelogues.
Jouelzy: Writer, Author, Influencer
With over 10 million views, Jouelzy curates weekly discussions to encourage women of color as they define their own success stories, emboldening them to push back against harmful social norms. Jouelzy provide a safe space for women of color to address complex cultural issues faced on a daily basis.
Gene Demby: Co-host/Correspondent, NPR’s Code Switch
Gene Demby is the co-host and correspondent for NPR’s Code Switch team. Before coming to NPR, he served as the managing editor for Huffington Post’s BlackVoices following its launch. He later covered politics. Prior to that role he spent six years in various positions at The New York Times where he started PostBourgie, a blog about race, culture, politics and media.
Mike Africa Jr.: Hip Hop Artist, Writer, Member of MOVE who was born in prison
Mike Africa, Jr. is a member of The MOVE Organization. He is a conscious hip hop artist and a motivational resilience speaker. He pushes his revolutionary message with his dynamic stage performances mixing music with speeches.
The Benefits of Hiring Young Black Motivational Speakers for Your Events
At Gotham Artists, our experience working closely with a diverse array of speakers gives us unique insights into the benefits of including young Black motivational speakers at your events. Here are several advantages that we’ve observed which can greatly enhance any event:
Diverse Perspectives Enhance Content Quality
Young Black motivational speakers bring unique perspectives based on their personal and professional experiences. These insights can enrich the content of your event, providing fresh viewpoints that might otherwise be overlooked. Such diversity adds depth to discussions, making your event more inclusive and engaging for a broader audience.
Strong Connection with Younger, Diverse Audiences
These speakers have a special knack for connecting with young and diverse audiences. They often share similar cultural or social experiences with these groups, making their messages more impactful and relatable. This connection is crucial for keeping an audience engaged and making the event feel more relevant to their lives.
Innovative Approaches to Traditional Topics
Innovation keeps content fresh and exciting, and young Black speakers are often at the cutting edge of new ideas. They can bring innovative thinking to conventional topics like leadership and personal growth, providing new ways for your audience to connect with these subjects and apply them in their own lives.
Inspiration and Motivation from Relatable Role Models
The personal stories of young Black motivational speakers can be incredibly inspiring. Their journeys of overcoming challenges and achieving success can motivate attendees to pursue their own dreams with greater enthusiasm and confidence. This emotional connection not only enhances the event experience but also leaves a lasting impression.
Enhanced Brand Image through Diversity Commitment
Hiring young Black motivational speakers also shows your commitment to diversity and inclusion. This can strengthen your brand’s reputation and appeal to sponsors and partners who value social responsibility. Promoting diversity through your choice of speakers can attract a wider audience and open up new opportunities for your event.
Potential for Viral Social Media Impact
Dynamic and engaging speakers can generate significant social media buzz. Attendees are more likely to share memorable moments and quotes from speakers who resonate with them on a personal level. This can extend the reach of your event, attracting more attention and potentially increasing attendance in the future.
Through our work at Gotham Artists, we’ve seen these benefits firsthand. Incorporating young Black motivational speakers into your events can not only elevate the experience for attendees but also significantly enhance the overall impact and success of your gathering.
Budgeting for Young Black Motivational Speakers: What Event Organizers Need to Know
Budgeting effectively for young Black motivational speakers is crucial for event organizers who want to ensure both financial feasibility and a high-quality event experience. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you plan your finances when considering these dynamic speakers:
Understand Speaker Fees
Speaker fees can vary widely based on experience, fame, and demand. It’s essential to research the going rates for speakers of the caliber you’re considering. Some speakers offer all-inclusive fees that cover travel, accommodation, and other expenses. This can simplify budget planning and potentially reduce costs.
Plan for Additional Expenses
- Travel and Accommodation: If your speaker isn’t local, factor in travel and accommodation costs. This might include flights, hotel stays, and local transportation.
- Technical Requirements: Depending on the speaker’s presentation needs, you may need to budget for special audio-visual equipment or stage setups.
- Marketing and Promotion: Consider the costs of promoting the speaker as part of your event. This could involve additional advertising expenses or materials production like posters and brochures.
Negotiation Strategies
- Book Early: Booking speakers early can sometimes secure a lower rate as last-minute bookings might carry a premium.
- Discuss Customization: If a speaker’s standard rate is above your budget, discuss customization options. Perhaps a shorter session or a virtual appearance could be negotiated for a lower fee.
- Multi-Engagement Deals: If you plan multiple events, consider negotiating a package deal with the same speaker for several appearances, which can often reduce the individual cost.
Maximize Speaker Value
- Leverage the Speaker’s Following: Choose speakers who can draw crowds not just with their words but also their popularity. A well-known speaker can boost ticket sales and sponsor interest.
- Dual Roles: Consider hiring speakers who can also perform masterclasses or workshops, adding value to your event without additional cost.
- Sponsorships: Offset speaker costs by obtaining sponsorships specifically aimed at funding diverse speakers. Sponsors may be attracted to the idea of supporting inclusivity initiatives.
Review and Adjust Budgets Regularly
Keep a close eye on your budget as your event approaches. Regular reviews can help catch overruns early, allowing for adjustments without compromising the event’s quality.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you allocate your resources wisely, allowing you to host influential young Black motivational speakers at your events effectively and within budget. This careful planning not only supports financial health but also contributes to the overall success and impact of your event.
How to Find and Engage with Young Black Motivational Speakers with Ease
Gotham Artists makes it easy for event organizers to hire top-tier young Black motivational speakers, ensuring a seamless and impactful addition to your event. With our expertise and extensive network, we can help you navigate the complexities of speaker selection and budgeting.
Reach out to us today to discover how we can elevate your next event with the perfect speaker.
FAQs
What qualities should I look for when selecting a young Black motivational speaker?
When selecting a speaker, look for qualities such as relevance to your audience, proven speaking experience, the ability to engage and inspire diverse groups, and a background that aligns with the themes of your event. Evaluating their previous engagements and feedback can also provide insight into their effectiveness and appeal.
Are there specific challenges I should be aware of when hiring speakers?
While hiring any speaker involves considerations like budget and audience fit, specific challenges when hiring young Black motivational speakers might include addressing any logistical needs unique to their presentation style or content. It’s also important to foster an inclusive environment that respects and values the diverse perspectives they bring to your event.
