Check out our latest blog posts, crafted with care by the Key Speakers team. We're here to support our amazing event planners every step of the way!

A Quick Guide To Booking With Key Speakers

Booking a keynote speaker for your event should be a smooth, stress-free experience. At Key Speakers, we’ve streamlined the speaker booking process to help event planners, corporations, schools, and organizations find the right fit for any occasion. From motivational keynotes, sales kickoffs, a leadership seminar, or a commencement address; here’s a step-by-step guide on what to expect when you book a speaker with us:

Six steps for booking with Key Speakers

Step 1. Understanding Your Goals
You’ll be matched with a dedicated Account Advisor who will get to know your event through a quick call or email exchange. During this discovery phase, we’ll ask about your event goals, audience demographics, budget, preferred speaking topics, and what kind of impact you’re hoping to make. This helps us align you with the ideal keynote speaker who fits your vision.

Step 2. Brainstorming & Proposal
We’ll provide a personalized list of hand-selected speakers, typically 3 to 10 options that are tailored to your criteria. Each speaker profile includes detailed bios, presentation topics, videos, and links to any published books, if applicable. If you’re looking for a motivational speaker, a celebrity speaker, a thought leader, or a diversity and inclusion speaker, we’ll help you find the right match. Here’s an example of what one of our interactive proposals looks like: Inspiring Business Women

Step 3. Identify a Shortlist
After reviewing the recommendations, we’ll help you narrow it down to your top picks. We’ll then confirm the speaker’s honorarium and check availability for your preferred event date. If the speaker is available, we’ll hold the date provisionally while we move toward a formal offer.

Step 4. Submitting a Speaking Invitation
To move forward, you’ll complete a short Speaker Offer Form (just two pages), which allows us to submit an official invitation to your chosen speaker. Response times vary depending on the speaker, but we’ll always keep you informed and manage expectations throughout the process.

5. Contracting
If the speaker accepts your offer, we’ll create a custom contract with your event details and industry-standard terms and conditions. A 50% deposit is typically required upon signing, with the remainder due 30 days before the event. We handle the paperwork so you can focus on planning.

6. Planning and Logistics
After the contract is signed, your dedicated Logistics Coordinator at Key Speakers will take over, managing all communication with the speaker regarding travel, presentation needs, and run-of-show details. We’ll also schedule a pre-event planning call between you and the speaker to align on content, event objectives, and technical requirements.

Event Day!
Everything is ready, and you can focus on hosting an unforgettable event. Your chosen speaker will deliver a high-impact, customized keynote presentation that engages your audience and supports your event’s goals.


A Few Additional Notes

  • Most speakers deliver a 60-minute keynote or a moderated Q&A.
  • Travel is typically covered by the event host and can be structured as a flat travel buyout in order to avoid expense reimbursements if needed.
  • Some speakers have limitations around media or recording, make sure to include this request in your firm offer submission if you’d like the speaker to consider this.
  • To ensure speaker availability and smoother planning, we recommend booking speakers 3–6 months in advance. But we’re also able to help you pull things together in less than a week, just expect fewer options closer to your event date.

Types of Public Speakers: Which One is Right for Your Event?

As the seasons change, spring brings new energy and fresh perspectives—a perfect time to reinvigorate your team. At Key Speakers, we can help connect you with powerful motivational speakers who can inspire action and transform your organization this season.

  1. Reigniting Passion and Purpose
    Choosing the right event speaker can help your team reconnect with their purpose. By sharing real-world experiences, the speaker can provide clarity on what truly drives success. When teams are inspired, they work with renewed focus and enthusiasm.

    Try This Today:

    • Introduce a gratitude practice by encouraging your team to reflect on positive moments in their workday.
  2. Building a Culture of Resilience
    Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but the right speaker can help your team develop a resilient mindset. They share strategies to embrace obstacles as opportunities, adapt to change, and maintain a positive outlook in the face of adversity.

    Try This Today:

    • Encourage team members to write down three key takeaways from past successful projects and how to apply them to current tasks.
  3. Enhancing Leadership and Teamwork
    Some speakers can promote stronger leadership skills and collaboration among teams. By offering new perspectives and engaging discussions, individuals become empowered to lead with confidence and work together towards common goals. In our previous blog post, we expand even further on 5 Key Traits to look for when searching for the perfect leadership speaker.

    Try This Today:

    • Identify one small change your team can make today to improve efficiency or teamwork.
    • Encourage employees to set a personal mission statement related to their role, helping them align their daily tasks with a bigger goal.
  4. Providing New Strategies
    Beyond motivation, a truly great business speaker can equip your team with practical tools and frameworks to implement right away. These insights can even help improve communication or enhance productivity.

    Try This Today:

    • Hold a five-minute huddle where teams align on priorities and celebrate quick wins.
  5. Inspiring Vision
    A professional speaker’s message lingers long after the event, encouraging ongoing growth and transformation. Their wisdom sparks motivation, making sure that the momentum built during your event translates into ongoing success.

    Try This Today:

    • Create a “Motivation Board” in the office or virtually, where employees can share quotes, stories, or achievements that inspire them.
    • Encourage employees to set long-term goals and check in on their progress at regular intervals.

Bringing the right speaker to your next event can be the catalyst your organization needs to boost morale and achieve new heights. Explore our roster of motivational speakers and find the perfect fit to encourage action this spring!

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> Email us at info@keyspeakers.com

> Fill out our Contact form

What Makes a Great Leadership Speaker? 5 Key Traits to Look For

Planning a corporate event, leadership retreat, or a sales kickoff? Finding the right leadership speaker can make all the difference in setting the tone at your next event. Here are five qualities to look for when selecting the perfect speaker to challenge your audience to rise above the ordinary.

  1. Captivating Storytelling
    Great leadership speakers know how to share a compelling story. Kristel Bauer captivates listeners by drawing from personal experiences, making complex leadership principles relatable. Authenticity in storytelling builds trust and emotional connection, ensuring the message sticks long after the event.
  2. Actionable Insights
    It’s not just about inspiration—it’s about equipping your audience with practical tools. Speakers like Sterling Hawkins break down leadership principles into tangible strategies that attendees can implement immediately. The ideal leadership speaker will exemplify the ability to use practical, real-world applications to drive measurable success.
  3. Engaging Delivery
    Some of the best speakers really know how to command a room. Incorporating elements like humor, interactive discussions, workshops, and high-energy presentations—engagement is key. Make every lesson memorable and impactful by keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
  4. Expertise and Credibility
    Your speaker should be a proven leader in their field. From top executives, best-selling authors, or renowned sports and business coaches; their credibility adds weight to their message. With an expert like Donnie Campbell, you can trust that personal insights stem from experience and proven success.
  5. Inspiring Vision
    True leadership speakers ignite change by helping audiences see the bigger picture. They challenge conventional thinking by introducing fresh perspectives, inspiring people to lead with purpose. Visionaries like Carla Harris or Mike Kitko empower individuals to take bold steps towards transformation.

Bringing the right leading voice to your event will allow your audience to explore elements from collaboration to overcoming workplace challenges. Check out our roster of top leadership speakers and find the perfect match for your next event!

> Call us at 949-675-7856

> Email us at info@keyspeakers.com

> Fill out our Contact form

Celebrating Women’s Month: Keynotes That Empower

In today’s ever-changing landscape, the importance of amplifying women’s voices has never been more evident. At Key Speakers, we proudly collaborate with remarkable female keynote speakers who are redefining leadership and inspiring audiences globally. With Women’s Month approaching this March, discover six impactful topics along with notable speakers who can speak on each topic.

  1. Trailblazing Leadership
    Through their experiences, speakers Barbara Corcoran and Tara Renze demonstrate how strong, visionary leadership can help teams to achieve greatness and create lasting change. These speakers share a focus on authentic leadership, personal branding, and empowering others through resilience, storytelling, and actionable insights. Some of their topics highlight how bold leadership not only reshapes industries but also fosters empowerment by paving the way for others to rise.
  2. Resilience and Overcoming Adversity
    Another great way to inspire your audience, is with speakers that share personal journeys of resilience. These stories show how setbacks can be transformed into simple stepping stones, by providing powerful lessons in perseverance and growth. Like in Joanna Lohman’s moving keynote: Adversity is the Catalyst for Success: How Great Leaders Use Change as the Mother of Reinvention. Joanna surprises audiences with a revolutionary model that reframes adversity and reveals a four step process of how to harness it as the catalyst for authentic leadership.
  3. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
    Advocating for inclusive environments, Valerie Jarret’s Building an Equal, Diverse and Inclusive Workplace keynote provides strategies to foster a culture of belonging. Topics like these emphasize the importance of making sure all voices are heard and valued, driving equity in organizations and communities.
  4. Breaking Barriers
    With a topic like No One Approved Your No: How to Take On Your Year/Career/Goal w/Boundaries!; How can you not be inspired? Speakers like Demi Clark offer actionable insights on turning ideas into reality and promoting change in any field.
  5. Artificial Intelligence
    Erica Dhawan & Star Bobatoon are making waves in the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. With their unique expertise and dynamic delivery, they help break down complex concepts and demystify AI to showcase its transformative potential across industries.
  6. Empowering Generations
    Speakers like Laura Okmin excel at connecting different generations and meaningful dialogue across age groups. In her keynote, Women’s Empowerment, she addresses shared values and a unique perspective, that help audiences bridge divides and find common ground between generations.

woman wearing a cape

Together, we can create events that celebrate diversity, spark innovation, and drive change. Explore all speaker options throughout our website or reach out to start the conversation and find your perfect speaker!

> Call us at 949-675-7856

> Email us at info@keyspeakers.com

> Fill out our Contact form

Event Entertainment: Unconventional Speakers for more Dynamic Events

Instead of sticking to the tried-and-true approach of traditional speeches, panels, or Q&A’s; why not think outside the box and select someone who will engage your audience in new and exciting ways? Below are several unconventional speaker ideas that can add a fresh, dynamic energy to your event while creating lasting memories for your attendees.

  1. Interactive Performers
    Experiential speakers like magicians, mentalists, or improv artists can create an interactive atmosphere that keeps the crowd engaged and entertained. For a truly engaging experience, consider speakers like Jeanette Andrews and Jon Dorenbos. Imagine a magician demonstrating the power of perception in leadership, or an improv group offering key takeaways on adaptability!
  2. Comedians
    Humor is another powerful way to engage your audience and leave a lasting impression. For example, comedians with backgrounds in business can deliver laughs along with valuable insights on corporate success strategies. Explore our comedian category to find talent that blends humor with an impactful message.
  3. Artists and Creators
    Ever wanted to see an artist create live artwork or a creator discuss innovation and design while showcasing a live demonstration of their creative process? Transform your event with creators like Phil Hansen or Tim Decker, whose unique presentations explores themes like the connection between creativity and success.
  4. Musicians
    Musicians go beyond the traditional keynote by integrating live performance and meaningful storytelling. Perfect for events looking to entertain and energize, musicians offer an unforgettable experience that connects with attendees on both an emotional and intellectual level. Check out our musician category and get ready to rock out at your next event!
  5. Adventurers and Explorers
    Adventurous speakers like Diana Nyad and James Iron Cowboy Lawrence bring the thrill of physical challenges to your event by sharing stories of endurance and leadership. They can bring excitement and a sense of adventure to your event, that can serve as metaphors for business challenges which can inspire attendees to push beyond their limits.
  6. Celebrity Speakers
    Celebrity speakers can bring star power and perspective by combining entertainment and a meaningful message. Their personal stories of overcoming obstacles or achieving success can add prestige and excitement to any event. Discover more in our celebrity category to find the perfect talent for your next gathering.

Explore all speaker options throughout our website or reach out to start the conversation and find your perfect speaker!

> Call us at 949-675-7856

> Email us at info@keyspeakers.com

> Fill out our Contact form

Speaker Booking Success: Proven Tips from Our Expert Team

At Key Speakers Bureau, a WBENC-Certified Women’s Business Enterprise, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service to our clients. To help you get the most out of your booking experience, our expert team shares insider tips for booking speakers with ease and maximizing impact.

The Key Speakers team
Did you know Key Speakers is proudly certified as a women-owned and operated company? Partner with us and experience the dedication and expertise of a WBENC-certified team committed to supporting your event goals.
  1. Start with a Clear Budget and Timeline
    We asked Kelli Y., VP of Operations, what clients can do to set themselves up for a successful speaker search. Her advice? Start by setting a clear budget and timeline – “Clearly define your budget so that you can receive speaker options within reach. Begin the booking process at least three months before your event date to ensure your desired speaker is available. Six months before is ideal, as popular speakers can book up well in advance.”
  2. Be Transparent About Your Objectives
    Bayli M., one of our valued Account Advisors, emphasizes the importance of transparency. When asked how clients can help us make the best recommendations, she explained: “The more transparent you are about your internal process, speaker objectives, and audience, the more effective your bureau partner can be at recommending the most fitting speakers for your event.”
  3. Work with One Dedicated Bureau for a Smoother Experience
    Account Advisor, Katie C., provided insight into why working with one bureau from start to finish simplifies the booking process. When asked why clients should avoid using multiple bureaus, she shared: “There is really no reason to shop around for bureaus. Working with one bureau from start to finish is much more efficient for you. Speaker’s bureaus use standard fee structures that are similar from one bureau to the next, so partnering with just one bureau partner will save you time, and will give you a dedicated team to handle everything seamlessly—making the whole booking process easier and more reliable.” Our bureau brings decades of industry connections, handling all the details so you can focus on what matters most.
  4. Communicate Details Early and Stay Open to New Ideas
    Shayran C., Event Specialist, offered her perspective on how clear communication and flexibility go a long way in the speaker booking process. She recommends sharing specific details about your event and being open to suggestions – “Clearly explain your audience, event format, and key objectives. Be open to alternatives—we often suggest similar speakers who may bring unexpected value and flexibility to your event.”
  5. Take Advantage of a Bureau’s Broad Access and Expertise
    Industry expert and Account Advisor, Laurie I. shared her thoughts on the unique advantages of partnering with a speaker bureau. When we asked her what clients might not realize about working with a bureau, she noted: “The best part of working with a bureau is that we have access to ANY and ALL speakers. We’re your partner from start to finish, making the booking process seamless and handling all issues, so you’re free to focus on other event elements.” Some speakers prefer to keep their speaking details private. If you’re eager to book a specific personality, just reach out—we’re here to help!
  6. Trust in Expert Speaker Vetting
    Wendy H., Account Advisor, weighed in on the importance of having a bureau handle speaker vetting. She emphasized that clients can feel confident knowing we’re continually reviewing speaker options for quality and fit. “Key Speakers is constantly vetting speakers, so you don’t have to. We’ve got your back throughout the entire speaker selection process, making you look great to your audience and stakeholders!”

With these insights from our team, partnering with a WBENC-certified bureau like Key Speakers means more than just booking a speaker—it’s about ensuring a seamless, impactful experience from start to finish. We’re here to help you find the right speaker and make your event unforgettable. Reach out to us to get started!

> Call us at 949-675-7856

> Email us at info@keyspeakers.com

> Fill out our Contact form

6 Tips to Choose the Perfect Speaker for Your Sales Kickoff

Your annual sales kickoff is a chance to start the year strong, and finding the right motivational speaker can be an essential catalyst for success. By focusing on your team’s needs and seeking out speakers with a blend of inspiration and practical insight, the stage will be set for a year of stellar sales attitude and growth.

sales tips graphic
  1. Understand your audience’s needs
    Before diving into the speaker search, ask yourself what your team truly needs at this moment. Are they facing burnout and need a morale boost? Consider Colette Carlson‘s motivational talk: “YOU Management: Strategies to Avoid Burnout, Boost Resilience, and Accelerate Success”
  2. Look for expertise in sales or business growth
    A speaker like Alex Banayan, with a proven track record in sales or business growth will be relatable to your audience. You want a speaker who can offer tangible, actionable strategies that your team can apply in real time!
  3. Prioritize motivation with practical takeaways
    While inspiration is key, it’s equally important that your speaker offers practical tools and techniques. In Crystal Washington’s keynote, “NextGen Sales Connections: The Future’s Tech-Powered Growth Strategies”, your team will learn how to harness emerging technologies to enhance sales processes and connections.
  4. Check out their engagement style
    How a speaker delivers their message is just as important as the content itself. Do they engage with the audience through interactive elements? Known for his interactive presentations, Riaz Meghji engages audiences through dynamic elements such as real-time audience participation & thought-provoking questions.
  5. Get a sense of their reputation
    Tara Renze is known for delivering impactful and memorable presentations, and consistently leaving a lasting impression. Her reputation is also backed by numerous positive testimonials, making her quite a sought-after speaker. Make sure you do your homework when exploring speakers by watching videos of previous talks and reading reviews from other clients.
  6. Consider the right fit for your company culture
    Finally, ensure the speaker aligns with your company’s values and culture. A speaker who “gets” your industry, knows your audience, and can tailor their message to your team will always deliver an impactful event. Click here to explore more Sales Strategy Speakers.

So, are you ready to book the speaker who can make a difference at your next sales kickoff? Let’s start the conversation and find your perfect match!

> Call us at 949-675-7856

> Email us at info@keyspeakers.com

> Fill out our Contact form

You can also explore more Sales Strategy Speakers and Corporate Motivational Speakers.

How much do motivational speakers cost?

Thinking about hiring a speaker for an event but you’re just not sure how much it will cost? Key Speakers Bureau makes it easy by helping you find and hire keynote speakers, negotiate the most favorable terms and coordinate logistics. With nearly 30 years of experience, we’re here to help you understand the factors to consider when hiring a speaker for your event:

Do speakers charge a flat fee or by the hour?

Generally, speakers charge a speaking fee per speaking engagement (not per minute, not per hour).

Is it less expensive to hire a speaker for a virtual event than for an in-person event?

Typically a virtual speaking event (either to a live audience or via a pre-recorded speech) will cost 10-50% less than their fee to travel to an in-person event. 

What is the typical duration of a keynote speech and what is included? 

The fee quote provided by a speaker is typically based on a standard 60-minute keynote speech or moderated conversation. If you are looking for a speaker to deliver only a 15-minute speech, the fee will most likely still be the same. If you’re requesting the speaker to participate in a morning speech, and then another speech in the evening, this could be considered a full day event and may incur a 1.5-2x fee increase.

What other types of activities will speakers participate in and how much will it cost?

Beyond delivering a standard keynote talk, many speakers are happy to participate in other formats and activities to help you get the most out of their appearance at your event. In addition to delivering a speech, you can hire many speakers for: half-day and full-day training and workshops, breakout sessions, meet and greets, Q&A’s, panel discussions, emcee and event moderation, or marketing activities in addition to a speaking opportunity. Some speakers will even promote your event on their social media channels or create a marketing video that you can send to attendees to amp up excitement and drive ticket sales.

Sometimes speakers are happy to participate in these additional activities as part of their standard fee and other times this will increase their fee depending on the type and length of the activity. Please mention all desired activities to our Key Speakers Bureau team so we can facilitate your requests to keep in mind when suggesting speakers and negotiating your contract.

Do non-profits or schools receive discounts on speaker fees?

A few speakers have different rates for non-profit organizations or educational institutions but this can vary. Our team will request specific pricing once we know more about your event and your top choices for speakers.

Does the scale of the event and audience size affect a speaker’s fee?

Not as much as you would think. Whether your audience consists of 20 or 500 people, this usually doesn’t affect their fee. However, if the event is to be live-streamed to a large audience across multiple regions or recorded for future use, it is more likely the speaker will charge a premium. It is important to let your agent know about recording intentions early in the ideation process, as many speakers do not allow recording or replay, and if they do, they often have guidelines around how recording can be used and for how long they can be saved.

Travel expenses and other costs

Traditionally, travel expenses are quoted separately from the speaking fee. How speakers handle their travel and expenses vary, but normally the client pays for the speaker’s airfare, hotel, ground transportation, meals and incidentals. The speaker usually books their own airfare and home-city ground transportation while the client books ground transportation in the event city and hotel accommodation.

Here are the three primary ways travel expenses are handled:

1) Speaker invoicing – Some speakers are happy to book all or part of their own travel expenses and then invoice the client for expenses incurred leading up to and during the event. 

2) Travel buyouts – Most speakers prefer travel buyouts which range from $1,000 to $5,000. The buyout covers origin ground transportation and flights. If you are booking a high-profile speaker, it is possible this will be much larger due to private jet expenses, hair and makeup, travel companion expenses, etc. 

3) Travel is included in the quoted speaking fee – Although less common, there are some speakers who handle their own travel and will include these expenses in their quoted speaking fee.

Here is an example of a standard travel and expense requirement: $2,000 travel buyout in addition to the appearance fee to cover airfare, home-city ground transportation, meals and incidentals. Client to book and pay for hotel accommodation and professional event-city ground transportation.

Deposits and securing a booking

Some speakers have their own unique payment requirements. However, the industry standard is: If the event is taking place within one month of booking, the full balance will be due soon after signing the agreement. If the event is happening a few months out, a 50% deposit will be requested along with the signed agreement, and the balance is due at least two weeks before the event.

What speakers can I afford with my budget?

There are many entry-level speakers who are eager to give an excellent hands-on keynote for under $10,000. However, this fee range will typically not get you a world-renowned, seasoned motivational speaker. If your budget is less than $10,000 but you want a higher caliber of speakers to choose from, you can consider booking a speaker for a virtual or pre-recorded speaking engagement to cut down on costs. 

If you have a budget of $15,000 to $100,000, this is a sweet spot to be able to hire a speaker with notoriety who is accessible and hands-on for your event. Most great speakers are happy to join a planning call and customize their talk to your unique goals.

Speakers who have a household name and who are considered celebrities rarely consider in-person speaking offers for less than $100,000 plus travel expenses. Speakers with a fee greater than this amount typically prioritize their primary career for which they are famous, and need more incentive to take on speaking invitations due to high demand. (think the Obamas, Tony Robbins, Oprah, Brene Brown, etc.)

Additional tips and takeaways

• Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees. Virtual speaking rates can be 10-50% cheaper than in person rates.

• There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.

• Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if  hired for more than one event by the same organization.

• When browsing our speakers, it’s easy to see where speakers are located or “traveling from,” or you can narrow your search to a specific state to keep travel costs down.

• You can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker if they have a personal connection to your organization, mission, or the event location (does this give them a chance to visit their hometown?) Consider adding a cover letter to your speaking invitation, with the help of your Key Speakers Account Advisor.

• Be upfront about what you will need from the speaker – such as recording permission, promotional requests, the activities you want them to participate in –  so that Key Speakers can pair you with a speaker that checks all your boxes.

• Speaker bureaus like Key Speakers help guide you through the speaker booking process to help you negotiate the best deal with the most favorable terms.

Get started by using Key Speakers Bureau’s advanced search feature – use the fee slider to see which speakers fall within your event budget and desired category. Or, you can reach out to us via our contact us form to be paired with an agent who can help you find the perfect speaker for your event!

4 ways working with Key Speakers makes you the hero of your event

1 ) We provide a comprehensive service that takes the guesswork out of hiring a speaker. Luckily, bureaus are more than qualified to give objective insight on the right speakers to book and who to avoid. Having an ally on your side who is familiar with the talent booking industry goes a long way. We work for YOU. Not the speakers… not talent agencies… we are a resource for planners and always ensure that your needs come first.

2) We take care of the nitty-gritty contractual details. Leave the fine print to us so you can focus on other aspects of your event. Key Speakers mediates and absorbs some contractual risks so you don’t have to sign your life away.

3)  With our highly communicative booking model, you’ll never be left in the dark with the status of your hired speaker. We pride ourselves with a quick response time and always keep you updated on all new developments concerning your event. We are always up for a briefing call so everyone is on the same page, too! Our agents are personable (after our morning coffee!) and are willing and able to do whatever it takes to secure a fantastic speaker for your event.

4)  We have industry connections. Not to name drop… but we know people. It’s our job to connect you to who’s who in the industry. Working with a celebrity has never been so easy.

To put it simply, a speakers bureau is your one-stop resource for booking and managing speakers for your event. We do the heavy lifting for you. Our dedicated and knowledgeable booking agents ensure that the speaker’s message and personal brand perfectly align to your event objectives.

Top Black History Month Speakers

Black History Month is an annual event during the month of February focused on celebrating black history. As we look forward to celebrating this month-long holiday, we’d like to recognize the many incredible black leaders who have made a lasting impact on our country. From politicians and activists to artists and athletes, these inspiring figures have used their platforms to fight for justice, equality, and progress.

Black History Month is placed in February because it contains the birthdays of notable figures in society who have done a great deal to advance the cause of civil rights. Each year, organizations and institutions around the world host events and programs dedicated to celebrating black history and culture.

If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our list of some of the top black history keynote speakers available to book for your next event.

Top Black History Month Speakers

If you’re looking for someone to inspire and educate your audience this Black History Month, look no further than our list of top black history speakers. These iconic figures continue to share their views of the Black perspective through a unique lens of life experience.

Reverend Nontombi Naomi Tutu

Race & Gender Justice Activist; Daughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu

Naomi Tutu, a popular black history month speaker on human rights.

Reverend Tutu is a South African Anglican priest and human rights activist. Born in Johannesburg, she is the daughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Leah Tutu.

Tutu has been involved in activism since she was a teenager, working to end apartheid in South Africa. After the fall of apartheid, she continued her work as a human rights advocate, fighting for justice and equality for all people.

Rev. Tutu is an inspiring figure, and her work to promote human rights is invaluable. She has spoken out against racism, poverty, and other forms of discrimination, and she continues to be a powerful voice for change.

Marcus Bullock

Justice Reform Advocate; Entrepreneur; TED Speaker

Marcus Bullock is an entrepreneur and powerful advocate for criminal justice reform. After spending time in prison himself, he dedicated his life to fighting for change. In his speeches, he discusses the importance of compassion and understanding and urges audiences to never give up on the fight for justice.

Bullock is the founder and CEO of Flikshop, Inc., a software company that builds tools to help incarcerated people stay connected to their families and build community.

Bernice King

Daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr; CEO of The King Center

Bernice King is a powerful figure in the civil rights movement and the daughter of Martin Luther King Jr. She has dedicated her life to fighting for justice and equality, and she is a powerful advocate for peace and nonviolence.

Bernice King’s speeches are always inspiring and informative. She speaks candidly about the challenges faced by the civil rights movement, as well as the importance of continuing Dr. King’s legacy of peace and nonviolence. Her speeches are both moving and motivating, and they always leave audiences inspired to take action.

Bernice King, powerful figure in the civil rights movement and inspiring speaker.

Shaun Harper

USC Race and Equity Center Executive Director 

Shaun Harper, race and gender scholar activist.

Shaun Harper is a race and gender scholar and activist. He is the executive director of the Race and Equity Center at the University of Southern California and has dedicated his life to the studies of race, gender, and LGBT issues in corporate and academic environments.

Harper has written extensively about racism in America, and he is a powerful voice for change. His speeches offer a unique perspective on diversity and inclusion in America. He is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to learn more about this important topic and can be an excellent choice as a keynote speaker when celebrating Black History Month.

Angela Davis

Legendary Human Rights Activist

An iconic figure of the Black Power movement, Dr. Angela Davis is a writer, scholar, and political activist. She is best known for her work as a radical feminist and her advocacy for the rights of prisoners and other marginalized groups.

A powerful orator, Dr. Davis has spent her career fighting for social justice. In her speeches, she challenges audiences to think critically about race, gender, and class in American society. Her passion and commitment to making positive change make her an excellent choice for any event looking to promote dialogue and action around social justice issues.

Angela Davis, scholar, writer, and political activist.

Keisha Lance Bottoms

60th Mayor of Atlanta 

Lance Bottoms has a long history of fighting for social justice. As an attorney, she worked to promote equal access to education and housing for all residents of Atlanta. As a city council member, she championed measures to reduce crime and improve public safety. And as Mayor, she has pledged to make Atlanta a more equitable and inclusive city.

Lance Bottoms’ speeches reflect her dedication to social justice. In her talks, she discusses the importance of fighting for equality and breaking down barriers. She also highlights the challenges and opportunities facing Atlanta today and urges audiences to get involved in the city’s progress.

Keisha Lance Bottoms is an inspiring leader and a powerful advocate for social justice. Her speeches are sure to engage and inspire any audience interested in making positive change in their community.

Marcia Chatelain

Professor of History and African American Studies at Georgetown University; Pulitzer Prize-Winning Author

Marcia Chatelain is a historian and educator who studies race, racism, and social justice. She is the author of The South Side: A Portrait of Chicago and American Segregation.

Chatelain is an engaging speaker who offers a unique perspective on the black perspective in America. In her speeches, she provides historical context for the current discussion of race in America. She also offers strategies for dismantling racism and promoting social justice. Her talks are informative and inspiring and provide attendees with a better understanding of the complex issue of race in America.

Anthony Ray Hinton

Prison Reform Advocate and Author

Anthony Ray Hinton is a civil rights activist and author who was wrongly convicted of murder and spent 30 years on death row for a crime he didn’t commit. During his time in prison, Hinton became a vocal advocate for criminal justice reform and wrote a book about his experiences called “The Sun Does Shine.”

Since his release in 2015, Hinton has continued to fight for criminal justice reform. He speaks publicly about the need for reform and the importance of compassion and understanding. He also urges audiences to never give up on the fight for justice, no matter how difficult the struggle may be.

Philonise Floyd

Brother of George Floyd; Advocate for Social Change

Philonise Floyd is the co-founder of the Philonise and Keeta Institute for Social Change and has dedicated his life to fighting for social justice. Brother of George Floyd, the institute’s principles are to advocate for children and families in an effort to eradicate the daily impacts of police brutality in communities across the country.

In his speeches, he discusses the importance of education and activism in the fight for social justice. She also urges audiences to get involved in their community and help make positive change.

Sybrina Fulton

Mother of Trayvon Martin; Social Change Advocate

Sybrina Fulton is best known as the mother of Trayvon Martin, an unarmed teenager who was shot and killed by a neighborhood watch volunteer in 2012. Since then, Fulton has become a powerful advocate for criminal justice reform and racial equality.

In her speeches, Fulton discusses the importance of fighting for justice and ending racism. She also talks about her own personal story, and how it has motivated her to fight for change. Fulton’s speeches are moving and inspiring, and offer attendees a glimpse into the fight for equality and justice in America. 

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of black Americans and to learn about the challenges they have faced. These speakers offer a powerful and necessary perspective on race, identity, and social justice. By booking one of these speakers for your event, you can ensure that your audience will have a meaningful and educational experience this Black History Month.

Common Speaker Topics for Black History Month

Topics for Black History Month are most often both inspiring and informative. Whether focusing on an issue like civil rights or the role of the family in black culture, the best speakers push their audience to consider new ideas and move to action to improve the black experience across the country.  Here are just a few of the most popular speaker topics for Black History Month.

The Role of Black Culture in America

Black culture has played a significant role in shaping American society. From music and fashion to art and literature, black culture has left an indelible mark on the United States. This is especially evident during Black History Month when Americans celebrate the contributions of African Americans to the country.

Developments in Civil Rights

The civil rights movement was a pivotal moment in American history. During Black History Month, it is important to reflect on the progress that has been made since then and the work that still needs to be done. Speakers can discuss the various developments in civil rights over the years and how they have affected the black community.

The Future Black Experience Across the Country

Despite progress made over the years, black people continue to face many challenges. Speakers at Black History Month events can discuss the future prospects for black people across the United States and ways that everyone can help create a more equitable society.

The Importance of Education

Education is often cited as one of the most important tools for black people to achieve success. Black History Month is an ideal time to discuss the importance of education and how it can help close the achievement gap between black and white students.

Booking the Perfect Black History Month Keynote Speaker

When booking a black history month speaker, it is important to consider the audience and the overall tone of the event. Some events may be focused on celebrating black achievement, while others may be more focused on promoting social justice or sharing stories about overcoming adversity.

No matter what the focus of the event is, scheduling and budget are two additional important factors to consider when booking a speaker. From a budget standpoint, many speakers will require accommodations, travel fees, meals, and possibly even security in addition to their base speaker fees.  It is crucial to evaluate the full costs from the beginning when choosing a speaker. Otherwise, you may find that your expectations are not aligned with the actual cost of bringing a specific speaker to your event.

Booking a speaker as early as possible is a great way to ensure you have the speaker you would like. Often, prime dates with great speakers are likely to be booked months or even years in advance.

Final Thoughts

There are many great speakers who can help educate and inspire audiences during Black History Month. By featuring one or more of these speakers at your event, you can ensure that your audience will have a meaningful and memorable experience.

The best way to ensure that the event is successful is to work with a speaker bureau that can help you find the perfect keynote speaker based on your objectives and budget. The team at Key Speakers has extensive experience booking speakers for black history events. We can work with you to find a speaker who will inspire and engage your audience. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you make your event a success.

Book A Top Black Motivational Speaker For Your Event

Interested in inviting a black motivational speaker to share their expertise and perspectives at your Black History Month event? Contact us!  

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