Women Speakers

A women's empowerment speaker is a professional who delivers talks focused on advancing the rights, opportunities, and leadership of women across various sectors. These speakers are often activists, entrepreneurs, educators, or leaders who use their platform to inspire change and challenge societal norms.

They typically address topics like gender equality, leadership development, workplace inclusion, and personal growth. Some focus on specific industries-like tech, politics, or education-while others speak from a broader social justice lens. For example, someone like Malala Yousafzai speaks globally about girls' education, while Sheryl Sandberg has spoken extensively on women in corporate leadership.

Unlike general motivational speakers, women's empowerment speakers bring lived experience and often advocate for systemic change. Their talks are not just about individual success but about collective progress. They might share data on wage gaps, stories of overcoming discrimination, or strategies for building inclusive teams.

These speakers are often featured at conferences, summits, corporate events, universities, and community forums. Whether addressing a room of executives or a virtual classroom of students, their goal is to educate, inspire, and mobilize action around gender equity and empowerment.

When conversations about equity, leadership, and representation are happening everywhere-from boardrooms to classrooms-a women's empowerment speaker brings clarity and purpose to the table. Their importance lies in their ability to translate complex social issues into relatable, actionable insights.

First, they amplify voices that have historically been underrepresented. In industries like finance, tech, and politics, women's stories are often sidelined. A speaker who can articulate those experiences helps audiences understand systemic barriers and how to dismantle them.

Second, they serve as catalysts for change. Whether it's a corporate team rethinking its hiring practices or a student deciding to pursue a STEM career, these speakers spark reflection and action. Their influence isn't just emotional-it's strategic. Companies that bring in empowerment speakers often see shifts in culture, engagement, and even policy.

Third, they create safe spaces for dialogue. In many settings, people are unsure how to talk about gender equity. A skilled speaker can guide those conversations with empathy and authority, making it easier for others to participate and learn.

Finally, they model what's possible. Seeing someone who has navigated adversity and emerged as a leader can be transformative-especially for young women or marginalized communities. It's not just about inspiration. It's about representation, education, and momentum.

Women's empowerment speakers educate, motivate, and advocate-but their work goes far beyond delivering a keynote. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

1. Deliver Talks and Workshops. They speak at events ranging from global conferences to local community meetups. Topics might include leadership, entrepreneurship, mental health, or policy reform. For example, a speaker might lead a workshop on negotiating salaries for women in tech.

2. Consult with Organizations. Many speakers also work with companies or nonprofits to improve gender equity. They might help design inclusive hiring practices, lead diversity training, or advise on internal communications.

3. Create Educational Content. Some speakers publish books, host podcasts, or produce online courses. These resources extend their reach and allow them to engage with audiences beyond live events.

4. Mentor and Coach. Especially in grassroots or startup settings, speakers often take on mentorship roles. They guide emerging leaders, offer career advice, and help women navigate systemic challenges.

5. Advocate for Policy and Cultural Change. Beyond the stage, many empowerment speakers are activists. They campaign for legislation, speak to media, or collaborate with NGOs to push for systemic reform.

In short, women's empowerment speakers are educators, strategists, and changemakers. They don't just talk about empowerment-they build the frameworks that make it possible.

Ready to step into the spotlight and inspire change? Here's a step-by-step guide to becoming a women's empowerment speaker, whether you're starting from scratch or pivoting from another industry.

1. Define Your Core Message.
- What do you stand for? Your message should be rooted in personal experience, expertise, or a cause you're deeply passionate about-like gender equity in tech, leadership in rural communities, or mental health advocacy.
- Tip: Keep it specific. 'Empowering women in STEM' is more focused than 'helping women succeed.'

2. Build Your Credibility.
- Start by sharing your insights through blog posts, LinkedIn articles, or short videos.
- Speak at local events, panels, or even virtual summits. Platforms like Talks.co can help you connect with event hosts looking for fresh voices.
- Create a speaker page with your bio, talk topics, testimonials, and a short video reel.

3. Network with Intention.
- Join speaker communities, women's leadership groups, or niche industry forums.
- Reach out to podcast hosts or summit organizers. Offer to speak on topics that align with their audience.
- Use Talks.co to pitch yourself directly to event organizers who are actively seeking speakers.

4. Hone Your Speaking Skills.
- Take courses in public speaking or storytelling. Practice in front of friends or record yourself.
- Watch top speakers like Brené Brown or Lisa Nichols to study pacing, tone, and audience engagement.

5. Package Your Offer.
- Create signature talks or workshops. Make it easy for organizers to know what you offer.
- Include clear outcomes: 'Attendees will walk away with 3 strategies to build confidence in male-dominated industries.'

6. Promote Yourself Consistently.
- Share clips from your talks, behind-the-scenes prep, or testimonials on social media.
- Update your Talks.co profile regularly and ask for reviews from event hosts.

Becoming a women's empowerment speaker isn't about being famous. It's about being clear, credible, and connected. Start where you are and grow from there.

Being a women's empowerment speaker isn't just about standing on a stage and delivering a motivational talk. It's about having the right mix of purpose, preparation, and presence. Let's break it down.

First, you need a compelling story or message. This could be rooted in your personal journey-overcoming adversity, breaking barriers in your industry, or leading change in your community. The key is authenticity. Audiences connect with real experiences, not rehearsed slogans.

Second, you need subject matter expertise or lived experience. Whether you're a founder in fintech, a rural educator, or a corporate leader, your insights must be grounded in something tangible. Empowerment talks are most impactful when they offer both inspiration and actionable takeaways.

Third, you need a platform. This includes:
- A speaker page with your bio, topics, and a video reel.
- A Talks.co profile to connect with event hosts and get booked.
- A social media presence to share your message and build credibility.

Fourth, you need speaking skills. That means:
- Clear articulation and confident delivery.
- The ability to read a room-virtual or in-person-and adjust your tone accordingly.
- Storytelling techniques that keep audiences engaged.

Finally, you need a network. Relationships with event organizers, podcast hosts, and other speakers can open doors. Platforms like Talks.co are designed to help you build those connections.

In short, being a women's empowerment speaker requires clarity of message, depth of experience, strong communication skills, and a strategy for visibility. It's not about perfection-it's about purpose and persistence.

Yes, many women's empowerment speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on several factors. Let's unpack the landscape with some real-world context.

At the entry level, speakers often start by doing free or low-paid gigs to build credibility. Community events, podcasts, and local panels might offer exposure rather than cash. But as your reputation grows, so does your earning potential.

According to data from SpeakerHub and other industry platforms, mid-tier speakers (those with a few years of experience and a solid niche) can earn anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 per talk. High-profile speakers-think authors, CEOs, or TEDx alumni-can command $10,000 to $50,000 or more per keynote.

Here are some factors that influence pay:
- Experience Level: New speakers may earn less, while seasoned pros with media features or bestselling books earn more.
- Event Type: Corporate conferences typically pay more than nonprofit events or schools.
- Location: Speakers in North America or Western Europe often see higher fees than those in developing regions, though virtual events are leveling the field.
- Platform: Using tools like Talks.co can help you connect with paid opportunities and negotiate better terms.

Pros:
- Speaking can be a lucrative income stream if you build your brand.
- Paid gigs often lead to consulting, coaching, or book deals.

Cons:
- It can take time to get consistent paid bookings.
- Some industries (like education or activism) may have limited budgets.

So yes, women's empowerment speakers do get paid-but it takes strategy, visibility, and persistence to reach that level.

Women's empowerment speakers generate income through a mix of direct and indirect revenue streams. Here's a breakdown of how they monetize their message:

1. Speaking Fees
- This is the most obvious source. Speakers are paid to deliver keynotes, workshops, or panels at conferences, corporate events, universities, and summits.
- Rates vary based on experience, topic, and audience size (see 'How much do women's empowerment speakers make').

2. Virtual Summits and Webinars
- Hosting or participating in online events can be monetized through ticket sales, sponsorships, or affiliate partnerships.
- Platforms like Talks.co help speakers connect with virtual event hosts and get booked.

3. Books and Publications
- Many speakers write books, eBooks, or guides that align with their message. These can become passive income streams and credibility boosters.
- Example: Melinda Emerson, known as the 'SmallBizLady', turned her speaking career into a bestselling book and consulting brand.

4. Courses and Coaching
- Offering online courses or one-on-one coaching allows speakers to go deeper with their audience.
- These services are often promoted during or after speaking engagements.

5. Brand Partnerships and Sponsorships
- Influential speakers may collaborate with brands that align with their values, especially in industries like wellness, tech, or education.

6. Consulting and Advisory Roles
- Some speakers are hired by companies or NGOs to advise on diversity, leadership, or women's initiatives.

7. Merchandise and Digital Products
- From branded journals to downloadable toolkits, these products offer additional revenue and audience engagement.

In short, speaking is often the gateway-but the real income comes from building an ecosystem around your message.

Earnings for women's empowerment speakers vary widely, depending on experience, niche, audience, and reach. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect at different stages:

Speaker Level	Estimated Fee Per Talk	Annual Income Range (if speaking regularly)
Beginner	$0 - $500	$0 - $5,000
Emerging	$500 - $2,500	$5,000 - $50,000
Mid-Level	$2,500 - $10,000	$50,000 - $150,000
High-Profile	$10,000 - $50,000+	$150,000 - $1M+

Key Variables:
- Industry: Corporate events (e.g., tech, finance) tend to pay more than nonprofit or educational events.
- Region: Speakers in the U.S., U.K., and Australia often command higher fees than those in developing markets.
- Format: In-person keynotes usually pay more than virtual talks, though virtual events offer volume.
- Platform: Speakers using Talks.co or similar platforms often get more consistent bookings and better exposure.
Additional Income Sources:
- Coaching: $100 - $500 per session.
- Online courses: $50 - $500 per student.
- Book royalties: Varies based on sales and publisher.
So while some speakers earn modest side income, others build six- or seven-figure businesses around their speaking careers. It all depends on your strategy and scalability.

If you're looking to hire a women's empowerment speaker, costs can range dramatically based on several factors. Here's a breakdown to help you budget effectively:

Speaker Type	Typical Fee Range	Ideal For
Local/New Speaker	$0 - $1,000	Community events, schools, grassroots orgs
Mid-Level Speaker	$1,000 - $5,000	Regional conferences, corporate workshops
High-Profile Speaker	$5,000 - $25,000+	National events, industry summits
Celebrity/Author	$25,000 - $100,000+	Global conferences, televised events

Factors That Affect Cost:
- Event Type: Corporate events usually have larger budgets than nonprofits.
- Duration: A 20-minute keynote costs less than a full-day workshop.
- Travel: In-person events may require covering flights, hotels, and per diems.
- Customization: Tailored talks or training sessions often come at a premium.
Tips for Booking:
- Use platforms like Talks.co to find speakers within your budget and see reviews.
- Be transparent about your budget-many speakers offer tiered packages.
- Consider virtual options to reduce travel costs.
Hiring a women's empowerment speaker is an investment in your audience's growth. Whether you're hosting a summit or a team retreat, there's a speaker out there who fits your budget and your mission.

Here's a list of some of the most iconic women's empowerment speakers in history-those whose words have transcended time and inspired generations:

- Maya Angelou: Poet, author, and civil rights activist. Her speeches and poems like 'Still I Rise' remain staples in empowerment circles.
- Oprah Winfrey: From her Harvard commencement speech to her Golden Globes address, Oprah has consistently used her platform to uplift women globally.
- Gloria Steinem: A leading voice in the feminist movement, known for her powerful speeches on gender equality and social justice.
- Malala Yousafzai: Nobel Prize winner who speaks on girls' education and resilience. Her UN speech at age 16 was a global wake-up call.
- Michelle Obama: Former First Lady whose speeches on education, leadership, and self-worth have resonated across political and cultural lines.
- Angela Davis: Scholar and activist whose speeches on race, gender, and justice have influenced generations of changemakers.
- Audre Lorde: Poet and theorist whose lectures and essays continue to shape feminist and queer discourse.
- Toni Morrison: While known for her novels, Morrison's public lectures on identity and power were deeply empowering.
- Eleanor Roosevelt: A pioneer in human rights advocacy, her speeches helped lay the groundwork for modern women's leadership.
- Sojourner Truth: Her 1851 speech 'Ain't I a Woman?' remains one of the most powerful declarations of intersectional feminism.

These women didn't just speak-they moved history. Their legacies continue to shape the voices of today's empowerment leaders.

Looking for top-tier women's empowerment speakers making waves globally right now? Here's a curated list of standout voices from different regions and industries:

- Brené Brown (USA): Researcher and storyteller known for her TED Talk on vulnerability. Her work blends psychology with leadership.
- Leymah Gbowee (Liberia): Nobel Peace Prize laureate who speaks on peacebuilding, women's rights, and grassroots activism.
- Reshma Saujani (USA/India): Founder of Girls Who Code, she champions women in tech and speaks on bravery over perfection.
- Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Nigeria): Author of 'We Should All Be Feminists', her TEDx talk went viral and shaped global feminist discourse.
- Arianna Huffington (Greece/USA): Founder of Thrive Global, she speaks on wellness, leadership, and redefining success.
- Tiffany Pham (Vietnam/USA): Founder of Mogul, she empowers women in business and tech through speaking and mentorship.
- Sally Kohn (USA): Political commentator and speaker on empathy, inclusion, and bridging divides.
- Nadia Murad (Iraq): Nobel laureate and human rights activist speaking on sexual violence and survivor empowerment.
- Jessica Ennis-Hill (UK): Olympic gold medalist who now speaks on resilience, discipline, and women's health.
- Sophie Trudeau (Canada): Mental health advocate and speaker on gender equality and emotional well-being.

These speakers are not only diverse in geography, but also in focus-from tech to trauma recovery. They're shaping conversations that matter on a global scale.

Myth #1: Women's empowerment speakers only talk about feminism.

This is a narrow view of what these speakers actually cover. While feminism is often a foundational theme, women's empowerment speakers explore a wide range of topics: leadership, entrepreneurship, mental health, financial literacy, tech inclusion, and more. For example, Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code, focuses on closing the gender gap in tech. Her talks aren't just about equality-they're about equipping women with tangible skills and confidence to thrive in STEM.

Myth #2: You need to be famous or have a huge social media following to become one.

Not true. Many impactful speakers started with small local events or niche communities. Take the case of Nigerian speaker Adora Nwodo, who began by speaking at regional tech meetups before gaining global recognition. What matters more than fame is clarity of message, authenticity, and the ability to connect with your audience.

Myth #3: Women's empowerment speakers only speak to women.

This misconception limits the reach and purpose of empowerment. Many speakers intentionally engage mixed-gender audiences to foster allyship and systemic change. Speakers like Melinda Gates often address corporate leaders, policymakers, and educators-regardless of gender-because empowering women benefits everyone.

Myth #4: It's all motivational fluff with no actionable advice.

Sure, some talks lean inspirational, but many women's empowerment speakers are deeply tactical. Think of someone like Arlan Hamilton, who speaks on venture capital access for underrepresented founders. Her sessions often include funding strategies, pitch tips, and real-world data. The best speakers combine inspiration with implementation.

Myth #5: You have to have overcome extreme adversity to be credible.

While powerful stories of resilience resonate, not every speaker needs a dramatic backstory. Expertise, lived experience, and insight are just as valuable. A woman who's led a successful rural microfinance initiative or built a sustainable business in a small town can offer just as much value as someone who's survived a major crisis. The key is relevance, not drama.

When you think of successful women's empowerment speakers, names like Brené Brown or Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie might come to mind. But success in this space takes many forms-some global, some hyperlocal, all impactful.

Take the story of Leymah Gbowee. A peace activist from Liberia, she began speaking to small groups of women during the civil war, urging them to take a stand. Her words sparked a movement that helped end the conflict. Today, she speaks on stages around the world, including the UN and TED, but her roots are in grassroots mobilization. Her journey shows that powerful speaking doesn't start with a mic-it starts with a message.

Then there's Jessica Huie, a British entrepreneur who transitioned into speaking after years in PR. Her talks blend business strategy with personal growth, especially for women of color navigating corporate spaces. She's spoken at Google, Virgin, and various UK universities. What sets her apart is her ability to merge personal narrative with practical insight, making her relatable to both startups and execs.

In India, Deepa Narayan, a social scientist and author, has used her platform to challenge cultural norms around gender roles. Her talks are data-driven, yet deeply human. She's spoken at policy forums and academic conferences, influencing both grassroots NGOs and government programs.

And let's not forget local heroes. In rural Kenya, Mary Mwangi runs empowerment workshops for teenage girls, combining storytelling with life skills training. She may not have a global following, but her impact is undeniable-measured in school retention rates and community transformation.

These stories remind us: success isn't about scale, it's about resonance. Whether you're speaking to 10 or 10,000, if your words move people to think, act, or change, you're doing the work.

The landscape for women's empowerment speakers is shifting in some exciting directions. If you're already in the space or thinking about stepping in, here are a few trends to keep your eye on:

- Hybrid speaking formats are becoming the norm. Post-2020, virtual events aren't just a backup-they're a strategy. Speakers who can deliver high-impact talks both online and in-person will have more opportunities. Think of how platforms like Hopin or Airmeet are enabling global reach without the travel.

- Intersectionality is front and center. Audiences are demanding more nuanced conversations. It's not just about gender-it's about how gender intersects with race, disability, sexuality, and class. Speakers who bring layered perspectives, like disability advocate Haben Girma, are gaining traction.

- Corporate demand is growing. Companies are investing in DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) initiatives, and women's empowerment speakers are being booked not just for events, but for leadership training, onboarding, and culture-building. This opens doors for speakers with HR, coaching, or organizational development backgrounds.

- Micro-niche expertise is rising. Instead of broad empowerment themes, speakers are carving out niches: women in blockchain, rural entrepreneurship, neurodiversity in leadership. The more specific your lens, the more likely you are to attract aligned opportunities.

- Data-backed storytelling is in demand. Audiences want more than inspiration-they want insight. Speakers who combine personal narrative with research, case studies, or industry data (like Dr. Pragya Agarwal on behavioral science and bias) are standing out.

Looking ahead, the most successful women's empowerment speakers will be those who adapt quickly, speak authentically, and bring fresh, relevant insight to the table-whether that table is a boardroom, a virtual summit, or a community center.

- Talks.co. A smart platform that matches speakers with podcast hosts. Great for building your speaking resume and expanding your reach. Tip: Start with niche podcasts where your story aligns closely with the audience.

- Canva. Not just for social media-use it to design slide decks, speaker one-sheets, and branded PDFs. Their templates make it easy to look professional, even if you're just starting out.

- LinkedIn Learning. Offers courses on public speaking, storytelling, and personal branding. Especially useful if you're transitioning from another career and want to polish your delivery.

- She Podcasts. A community and resource hub for women in audio. Even if you're not launching a podcast, it's a great place to connect with hosts looking for guests and learn how to pitch yourself.

- The Moth. Known for storytelling events, The Moth also offers workshops and resources to help you craft compelling stories. Perfect for speakers who want to lead with narrative.

- Google Trends. Use this to research what empowerment-related topics are gaining traction. Tailor your talk titles and content accordingly to stay relevant.

- Women's Speaker Association. Offers networking, training, and visibility opportunities for women speakers globally. Ideal for building credibility and finding collaborators.

These tools aren't just about logistics-they're about positioning. Use them to refine your message, find your audience, and step confidently into the spotlight.