Self Identity Speakers

A self identity speaker is someone who explores, examines, and expresses the concept of personal identity through public speaking. But this isn't just about telling a life story - it's about unpacking the layers that make us who we are.

These speakers often delve into topics like race, gender, culture, neurodiversity, religion, sexuality, or personal transformation. They use their own experiences as a lens to help others reflect on their own identities. For example, a speaker like Luvvie Ajayi Jones might explore what it means to be unapologetically authentic as a Nigerian-American woman in corporate spaces, while someone like Muniba Mazari brings in perspectives on disability and resilience from Pakistan.

Self identity speakers can be educators, entrepreneurs, artists, or activists. What unites them is their ability to turn personal insight into collective learning. They don't just share - they teach, provoke, and invite dialogue.

In a world where identity is increasingly central to how we work, live, and connect, these speakers help audiences make sense of their own stories. Whether it's in a corporate DEI workshop, a youth summit, or a global virtual stage, their role is to create space for reflection and growth.

So when we talk about self identity speakers, we're really talking about guides - people who help others navigate the complex terrain of who they are and how they show up in the world.

When people understand who they are, they show up differently - and that's exactly why self identity speakers matter.

In workplaces, these speakers help teams move beyond surface-level diversity. They spark conversations about belonging, bias, and authenticity. For example, in a tech company scaling globally, a self identity speaker might help bridge cultural gaps between teams in Berlin and Bangalore. They bring nuance to the table - not just checkboxes.

In education, they give students language for experiences they've felt but never named. A speaker discussing LGBTQ+ identity in a rural high school might be the first person to validate a student's internal world. That's not just impactful - it's transformative.

In entrepreneurship, self identity speakers help founders align their brand with their values. Think of someone like Lisa Nichols, who speaks about turning pain into purpose. Her talks don't just inspire - they clarify.

And in media and entertainment, these speakers challenge stereotypes and expand narratives. Whether it's a panel on Afro-Latinx identity or a keynote on neurodivergence in storytelling, they push audiences to think more critically.

So no matter the setting, self identity speakers are catalysts. They don't just talk about identity - they help people live it more fully.

Self identity speakers do more than just talk about themselves - they facilitate transformation through storytelling, education, and dialogue. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

- Craft and Deliver Talks. They create keynote speeches, workshops, or panels that explore themes like cultural heritage, gender identity, neurodiversity, or personal evolution. These talks are often tailored to specific audiences - from high school students to Fortune 500 executives.

- Lead Workshops and Trainings. Many self identity speakers offer interactive sessions that go deeper than a keynote. These might include identity mapping exercises, group discussions, or scenario-based learning. For example, in a DEI training for a healthcare company, a speaker might guide staff through unpacking unconscious bias in patient care.

- Consult on Content and Strategy. Some speakers advise organizations on how to create inclusive messaging, campaigns, or internal policies. A speaker with Indigenous heritage might consult on how to respectfully represent First Nations communities in a tourism brand's marketing.

- Engage in Public Discourse. Through podcasts, social media, books, or interviews, self identity speakers contribute to broader conversations. They often become thought leaders in their niche, shaping how identity is discussed in public spaces.

- Mentor and Advocate. Many also mentor others who are exploring their own identities or stepping into public speaking. They might run coaching programs, host virtual summits, or support grassroots movements.

So while their core medium is speaking, their impact spans education, advocacy, and cultural change. They're not just voices - they're bridges between personal truth and collective understanding.

Becoming a self identity speaker isn't just about telling your story. It's about crafting a message that resonates, connects, and transforms. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Core Message.
- What part of your identity journey is most powerful? Maybe it's your experience growing up bicultural, navigating gender identity, or overcoming societal labels.
- Tip: Focus on a theme that others can relate to, like belonging, authenticity, or resilience.

2. Develop Your Signature Talk.
- Structure your story with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Highlight challenges, turning points, and lessons.
- Example: A speaker might walk through their journey of coming out in a conservative community, the backlash they faced, and how they found strength in self-acceptance.

3. Practice and Refine.
- Rehearse in front of friends, record yourself, and get feedback. Join a local Toastmasters group or virtual speaking club.
- Pro tip: Watch TEDx talks on identity to see how others structure their message.

4. Build Your Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to create a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a video clip.
- This helps event organizers find and book you easily.

5. Start Small, Then Scale.
- Begin with local schools, community centers, or online summits. Reach out to podcast hosts or virtual event organizers.
- Use Talks.co to connect with hosts looking for speakers on identity, diversity, and inclusion.

6. Network and Collaborate.
- Attend events, join speaker communities, and engage on LinkedIn. Collaborate with coaches or other speakers to expand your reach.

7. Keep Learning.
- Take courses on storytelling, public speaking, or personal branding. Stay updated on cultural conversations around identity.

Becoming a self identity speaker is a journey in itself. Start where you are, speak your truth, and build from there.

To be a self identity speaker, you need more than just a compelling personal story. You need clarity, credibility, and a platform that amplifies your voice. Here's what that looks like:

A Clear Narrative
Your story should have a central theme that ties everything together. Whether it's about racial identity, neurodiversity, or gender expression, your message should be focused and intentional. Audiences connect with clarity, not complexity.

Authenticity and Vulnerability
Self identity speakers thrive on realness. You don't need to have it all figured out, but you do need to be honest. Vulnerability builds trust. Think of speakers like Laverne Cox or Jay Shetty - they share openly, which makes their message powerful.

Speaking Skills
You don't need to be a polished TED veteran, but you do need to communicate effectively. That means pacing, tone, body language, and storytelling techniques. Practice helps, and so do workshops or coaching.

A Platform to Share Your Message
You'll need a speaker page, ideally on a platform like Talks.co. It should include:
- A professional bio.
- Your speaking topics.
- A short video clip of you speaking.
- Testimonials or past engagements.

Connection with Hosts and Audiences
Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with event organizers. You can also pitch yourself to podcasts, webinars, and summits. Make sure your message aligns with their audience.

A Growth Mindset
Finally, be open to feedback. The best speakers evolve over time. Stay curious, keep learning, and refine your message as you grow.

Being a self identity speaker is about using your voice to help others find theirs. Equip yourself with the right tools, and you'll be ready to make an impact.

Yes, self identity speakers do get paid, but the amount and frequency depend on several factors like experience, audience size, and event type. Let's break it down.

The Speaking Industry Landscape
According to SpeakerFlow and the National Speakers Association, over 70% of professional speakers earn income from speaking engagements. Self identity speakers fall into a niche that's increasingly in demand, especially in sectors like education, corporate DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), and mental health.

When They Get Paid
- Corporate events and conferences often pay well, especially when the speaker addresses identity in the workplace.
- Nonprofits and schools may offer lower fees or honorariums, but they can lead to larger opportunities.
- Virtual summits and podcasts may not pay upfront but can generate leads for paid gigs.

Pros
- Growing demand for authentic voices in DEI and wellness spaces.
- Opportunities to build a personal brand and monetize beyond speaking.

Cons
- Some events expect speakers to present for free in exchange for exposure.
- Income can be inconsistent without a strong booking strategy.

Tip: Use Talks.co to connect with hosts who are actively looking for speakers and are transparent about compensation.

In short, yes, self identity speakers do get paid, but it takes strategy, positioning, and persistence to turn it into a sustainable income stream.

Self identity speakers generate income through multiple streams, and the most successful ones diversify their approach. Here's a breakdown of how they do it:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
This is the most direct source. Speakers are hired to present at:
- Corporate DEI trainings
- Conferences and summits
- University events
- Government and nonprofit programs

Example: A speaker on LGBTQ+ identity might be booked for Pride Month programming at a Fortune 500 company.

2. Workshops and Trainings
Beyond keynotes, many offer interactive sessions or multi-day trainings. These often pay more and allow deeper engagement.

3. Online Courses and Memberships
Speakers often turn their content into digital products:
- Self-paced courses on identity, confidence, or storytelling.
- Membership communities for ongoing support.

4. Books and Publications
Publishing a memoir or guidebook can boost credibility and generate royalties. Think of speakers like Janet Mock or Vivek Shraya.

5. Consulting and Coaching
Some transition into coaching individuals or consulting with organizations on identity-related initiatives.

6. Affiliate and Brand Partnerships
If they have a strong online presence, speakers can partner with brands aligned with their message.

7. Talks.co and Other Platforms
Using platforms like Talks.co helps speakers connect with event hosts, showcase their expertise, and get booked for paid gigs.

The key is to treat speaking as a business. Smart self identity speakers build multiple income streams to support their mission and message.

The income of self identity speakers varies widely depending on experience, niche, and business model. Here's a closer look at the numbers and variables that affect earnings:
Typical Fee Ranges

Type of Engagement	Fee Range (USD)
Local schools/nonprofits	$100 - $1,000
Virtual summits/podcasts	Free - $500
Corporate keynotes	$2,000 - $15,000+
DEI workshops/training	$3,000 - $25,000+

Factors That Influence Earnings
- Experience and Reputation: New speakers might earn $500 per talk, while seasoned ones like Laverne Cox or Janet Mock can command five figures.
- Audience Size and Industry: Corporate gigs pay more than grassroots events. Tech and finance sectors tend to have larger budgets.
- Geography: Speakers in North America, Europe, and Australia often earn more due to higher event budgets.
- Virtual vs. In-Person: Virtual talks usually pay less but can be done more frequently.
Annual Income Potential
- Beginner (part-time): $5,000 - $20,000
- Mid-level (frequent bookings): $30,000 - $100,000
- Established (full-time with multiple streams): $100,000 - $500,000+
Many speakers also supplement their income with coaching, books, or online courses. As mentioned in 'How do self identity speakers make money', diversification is key.
So while there's no fixed salary, the potential is significant if you build your brand and leverage multiple revenue streams.

Hiring a self identity speaker can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several key factors. Here's what determines the cost:

1. Speaker's Experience and Reputation
- Emerging speakers: $500 - $2,000
- Mid-level professionals: $2,000 - $7,500
- High-profile names: $10,000 - $50,000+

2. Type of Event
- Schools and Community Events: Usually lower budgets, often $500 - $2,000.
- Corporate Trainings: Higher budgets, especially for DEI programs. Expect $5,000 - $20,000.
- Conferences and Summits: Varies widely, but keynote speakers often command $10,000+.

3. Format and Duration
- A 30-minute virtual talk will cost less than a full-day in-person workshop.
- Travel, prep time, and customization can increase fees.

4. Location and Logistics
- International travel or remote areas may require additional costs.
- Virtual events are more budget-friendly.

5. Additional Services
- Some speakers offer post-event consulting, breakout sessions, or follow-up resources for an added fee.

Cost-Saving Tip: Use platforms like Talks.co to find speakers within your budget. Many offer flexible packages or discounts for nonprofits.

In short, the cost of a self identity speaker depends on what you're looking for. But investing in the right voice can create lasting impact for your audience.

Maya Angelou. Poet, author, and speaker whose work on identity, race, and resilience has inspired generations.

Brené Brown. Known for her research on vulnerability and shame, her talks on authenticity and self-worth are globally acclaimed.

RuPaul Charles. Beyond entertainment, RuPaul has become a powerful voice on gender identity and self-expression.

James Baldwin. Though not a traditional speaker, his lectures and public appearances on race and identity remain iconic.

Janet Mock. A leading voice in the trans community, she blends storytelling with activism in her talks.

Malcolm X. His speeches on Black identity and empowerment have shaped civil rights discourse worldwide.

Ellen DeGeneres. One of the first openly gay celebrities to speak publicly about identity, paving the way for others.

Audre Lorde. Her speeches and essays on intersectionality and identity continue to influence feminist and queer thought.

Oprah Winfrey. Her public discussions on personal growth and identity have reached millions.

Frida Kahlo. While not a speaker in the traditional sense, her public persona and writings on identity have had lasting cultural impact.

Laverne Cox (USA). Emmy-nominated actress and speaker on trans rights and identity. Her TED Talk and university appearances are widely praised.

Munroe Bergdorf (UK). A British model and activist who speaks on race, gender, and identity across Europe and online platforms.

Vivek Shraya (Canada). A multidisciplinary artist and speaker whose work explores gender, race, and cultural identity.

Geena Rocero (Philippines/USA). A trans advocate and TED speaker who brings global perspective to identity conversations.

Mo Gawdat (Egypt/Global). Former Google X exec turned speaker on happiness and identity in the digital age.

Sisonke Msimang (South Africa). A writer and speaker whose talks on race, belonging, and identity have reached global audiences.

Tan France (UK/USA). Fashion expert and speaker on cultural identity, especially within the South Asian and LGBTQ+ communities.

Alok Vaid-Menon (USA/India). A gender non-conforming speaker and poet known for powerful talks on identity and expression.

Yassmin Abdel-Magied (Australia/Sudan). Engineer and speaker on Muslim identity, feminism, and inclusion.

Lidia Yuknavitch (USA). Author and speaker whose TED Talk on the misfit identity has resonated with millions.

Myth 1: Self identity speakers only talk about personal trauma.
This is a common misconception. While some self identity speakers do share personal stories, their scope is much broader. They explore cultural identity, gender expression, neurodiversity, intersectionality, and more. For example, speakers like Alok Vaid-Menon focus on gender nonconformity and challenge societal norms through both academic insight and performance art. Their talks go beyond personal pain and dive into systemic issues and collective healing.

Myth 2: You need to be famous or have a huge following to be a self identity speaker.
Not true. Many impactful self identity speakers start by sharing their message in local communities, schools, or niche online platforms. Take the case of Kodo Nishimura, a Buddhist monk and makeup artist who began speaking about LGBTQ+ identity in Japan before gaining international recognition. Influence grows from authenticity and consistency, not just follower count.

Myth 3: Self identity speakers are only relevant in social justice spaces.
Actually, their relevance spans industries. In corporate settings, self identity speakers are increasingly invited to lead DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) workshops. In education, they help shape inclusive curricula. Even in tech, voices like Timnit Gebru have sparked global conversations about race and ethics in AI. Their work is not confined to activism - it's reshaping how we think across sectors.

Myth 4: Speaking about identity is too niche to build a career.
This one's misleading. Niche doesn't mean small. In fact, niche audiences are often the most engaged. Speakers like Munroe Bergdorf have built entire ecosystems around their message, including books, brand partnerships, and media appearances. The key is clarity of message and alignment with the right platforms.

Myth 5: You have to be a polished public speaker to get started.
Nope. Many self identity speakers begin with raw, unfiltered storytelling. Platforms like TikTok, Clubhouse, and Instagram Live have made it easier to connect without needing a TED Talk-level polish. What matters more is relatability and resonance. The polish can come later - the message is what matters first.

In 2018, Blair Imani stood on a stage at a university in the Midwest. A Black, queer, Muslim woman, she spoke about navigating multiple identities in a post-9/11 America. The audience was silent at first. Then came the questions. Then the applause. That talk led to a book deal, a podcast series, and a recurring spot on national panels. Blair's story shows how specificity in identity can create universal resonance.

Another example comes from India. Dutee Chand, a professional sprinter, made headlines not just for her speed but for coming out as one of the first openly gay athletes in the country. Her transition into speaking wasn't planned. But as media requests poured in, she realized the power of her voice. Today, she speaks at sports conferences, corporate events, and youth summits, using her journey to challenge gender norms and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in conservative spaces.

Then there's Chella Man, a deaf, transgender artist and activist. His talks combine visual art, sign language, and spoken word to explore the intersections of disability, gender, and race. What makes Chella's approach unique is his use of multimedia storytelling. He doesn't just speak - he performs, educates, and invites dialogue. His TEDx talk and YouTube series have inspired thousands, especially young people navigating similar identities.

In South Africa, Zanele Muholi, a visual activist, uses photography and public speaking to document and discuss the lives of Black LGBTQ+ individuals. Their exhibitions often include artist talks that double as identity-centered lectures. While Zanele is primarily known in the art world, their voice as a speaker has been instrumental in shifting public discourse around queer identity in post-apartheid contexts.

Each of these speakers started from different places - sports, art, academia, grassroots activism. But what they share is a deep commitment to truth-telling. Their success isn't just about visibility. It's about using their platform to create space for others to be seen and heard too.

The landscape for self identity speakers is shifting, and not just in terms of where they speak. It's about how, why, and with whom. One major trend is the decentralization of platforms. Instead of waiting for a conference invite, speakers are building their own stages on Substack, YouTube, and even Discord. This shift gives them more control over their message and audience.

Another trend is the rise of intersectional storytelling. Audiences are no longer satisfied with one-dimensional narratives. They want complexity. Speakers who can weave together race, gender, disability, class, and culture are seeing more demand. Think of people like Haben Girma, who speaks about disability rights through the lens of race and technology. Her talks are layered, and that's what makes them powerful.

We're also seeing a growing appetite for global voices. Western audiences are tuning into speakers from the Global South, indigenous communities, and diasporic populations. This is partly driven by digital access, but also by a hunger for perspectives that challenge dominant narratives.

Here are a few key trends to watch:
- Virtual-first speaking careers. Hybrid events are here to stay. Speakers who can master both in-person and virtual delivery will have a competitive edge.
- Micro-communities over mass appeal. Building a loyal niche audience (e.g., neurodivergent entrepreneurs, queer Muslims, trans athletes) can be more sustainable than chasing viral fame.
- AI-assisted storytelling. Tools like ChatGPT and Descript are helping speakers refine their message, edit transcripts, and even generate talk outlines. The tech isn't replacing the speaker - it's enhancing their workflow.
- Corporate DEI integration. Companies are hiring self identity speakers not just for one-off events, but as long-term consultants and workshop leaders. This creates recurring revenue and deeper impact.

The future isn't just about being heard. It's about being understood. And the speakers who can adapt to new formats, embrace nuance, and stay rooted in authenticity will lead the way.

Talks.co. A smart platform that matches speakers with podcast hosts. Great for building your voice and audience through interviews. Tip: Use the filters to find shows that align with your identity focus, whether that's mental health, LGBTQ+ issues, or cultural identity.

SpeakerHub. A directory and booking platform where you can list your profile, pitch to event organizers, and find speaking gigs. Bonus: They offer free webinars on speaker branding and proposal writing.

Canva. Not just for social media. Use it to design slide decks that visually support your identity story. Tip: Choose templates that reflect your tone - minimalist for academic talks, bold for activist energy.

Otter.ai. Transcribe your practice sessions or live talks. Helps you refine your message and repurpose content into blog posts or social captions. Especially helpful for speakers who want to improve clarity or accessibility.

Substack. Build a newsletter around your message. Many self identity speakers use it to test ideas, share essays, and grow a loyal audience. Tip: Include audio versions of your posts to reach different learning styles.

Zoom Events. If you're hosting your own virtual talks or panels, this tool offers registration, ticketing, and analytics. Great for building your own stage when others aren't offering one.

Descript. Edit your video and audio content with ease. Ideal for turning your talks into polished clips for social media or YouTube. Bonus: You can remove filler words and add captions in minutes.

The Diversity Gap Podcast. Hosted by Bethaney Wilkinson, this podcast explores identity, power, and belonging. Listening to other voices can sharpen your own. Tip: Take notes on how guests structure their stories and arguments.