Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Amber Leong

Entrepreneur and Founder, Circadian Optics and G-Works Venture Studios, Shark Tank Alum

Amber Leong Speaking Fee: $20,000 to $30,000

Entrepreneur and Founder, Circadian Optics and G-Works Venture Studios, Shark Tank Alum

Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Amber Leong
Speaking Fee:
$20,000 to $30,000

Travels From:
MSP - Minneapolis

Primary Topic Category:
Business & Entrepreneurship

Secondary Topic Category:
Asian & Pacific Islander

 

Amber Leong Speaker Profile: At A Glance

After nearly dying from toxic shock syndrome while studying in Minnesota at age 20, Amber Leong looked into the impact of light on health. Emigrating from Malaysia, she was convinced that the wintry climate wasn’t helping her heal. She developed Circadian Optics, which makes portable LED lamps that mimic daylight and improve mood, energy and concentration. In 2019, she gained a $750,000 investment for a 20 percent stake in her company on Shark Tank. After Circadian Optics was acquired in 2021, Amber left co-founded G-Works Venture Studio, an internal venture studio of General Mills.

Amber Leong's journey from a small town in Malaysia to a celebrated entrepreneur and keynote speaker in the United States is nothing short of inspiring. Growing up with limited resources, Amber was determined to carve out a future filled with promise and opportunities. She bravely moved to the United States to attend Bemidji State University in Minnesota, overcoming cultural and financial barriers. Amber's relentless drive led her to earn a degree in biochemistry, a subject that would later become foundational to her entrepreneurial success. In 2015, Amber faced a significant personal health challenge—a severe bout of winter depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Struggling with dwindling energy and mood, she discovered the profound impact of light therapy. However, she noticed a gap in the market for aesthetically pleasing and functional light therapy lamps. Fueled by her personal experience and scientific background, Amber co-founded Circadian Optics, a company dedicated to designing stylish and effective light therapy lamps. Amber's entrepreneurial prowess was brought into the limelight when she appeared on ABC's ""Shark Tank"" in 2019. Her pitch impressed the sharks, leading to an unprecedented deal with Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner. This partnership not only bolstered the company's growth but also catapulted Amber to national recognition. Her story of resilience and innovation resonated with many, cementing her status as a powerful voice in entrepreneurship and mental health advocacy. Today, Amber Leong is a sought-after keynote speaker, sharing her insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, and the importance of mental health. She speaks at various conferences, universities, and corporate events, inspiring audiences with her narrative of turning adversity into opportunity. Amber’s authentic approach and dedication to helping others harness their potential have made her a respected figure in the entrepreneurial community. Amber's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and the unwavering belief in one's potential. Whether she is guiding new entrepreneurs or advocating for mental wellness, Amber remains committed to making a lasting, positive impact on the world. Her journey is an ongoing reminder that with determination and ingenuity, obstacles can be transformed into opportunities.
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