Akbar Gbajabiamila
Host of NBC's American Ninja Warrior and NFL's Fantasy Live
Biography
• Host of NBC's "American Ninja Warrior," following competitors across the country as they compete in epically challenging obstacle courses • Also currently hosts NFL Networks' highest rated show, "NFL Fantasy Live," which has become the ultimate source for fantasy football news and matchups • Competed in the reality series "Expedition Impossible" on ABC, making it to the final round by traveling around the world to compete in physical challenges • Played 5 seasons in the NFL for the Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers, and Miami Dolphins, before transitioning into a career where he could use his skills and assets to help others • Made his big screen debut in the short film, "The Sac Fly," and co-starred in the Funny or Die skit, "Internet Cops" • He currently serves as a board member for the Asomugha Foundation, an organization aimed at creating better educational opportunities for impoverished communities. Akbar Gbajabiamila, a Southern California native, parlayed a five-year stint in the NFL into a career in television as a host and actor. He is currently the host of NBC’s hit show American Ninja Warrior, which follows competitors as they tackle a series of challenging obstacle courses in both city qualifying and city finals rounds across the country. Gbajabiamila also currently hosts NFL Networks' highest rated show NFL Fantasy Live. Gbajabiamila was also a fan-favorite on the 2009 ABC adventure series Expedition Impossible where he was hand-selected by producer Mark Burnett to compete in challenges across the globe. Gbajabiamila has always lived an active lifestyle, one that combined social consciousness with athletic success. An undrafted NFL free agent in 2003, Gbajabiamila played for the Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers and Miami Dolphins before retiring in 2008. During the duration of his professional football career, Akbar was looking for what’s next in his non-playing career and how he could use those skills and assets to help others. In 2005, he was selected as one of the NFL’s first athletes to be in their Broadcast Boot Camp, held at NFL Films in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, that was designed to give 20 players a short and rigorous look into the skills needed to embark on a broadcast or journalism career after their playing days were over. With his playing career over, Akbar turned his focus to television, serving as an analyst for the NFL Network and hosting NBC’s American Ninja Warrior. He recently made his feature acting debut in the 2015 short film The Sac Fly, and previously co-starred in the Funny or Die skit Internet Cops with Nnamdi Asomugha. Akbar has a long history of volunteering and social consciousness. He currently serves as a board member for the Asomugha Foundation, an organization aimed at creating better educational opportunities for impoverished communities. As a collegiate undergrad, Akbar joined Athletes for Education, a youth education program where he was able to promote financial literacy for youth in the San Diego community.
Speech Topics
A Conversation with Akbar Gbajabiamila
Videos
Books
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check Akbar Gbajabiamila's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Akbar Gbajabiamila's availability or get a customized quote by contacting Key Speakers directly. Our team will help you determine fit, logistics, and budget options for your upcoming event.What is Akbar Gbajabiamila's speaking fee?
The typical range for Akbar Gbajabiamila's speaking fee is $35,000–$44,000. The low end of the fee range represents their standard virtual fee. The high end of the fee range represents their standard fee for a US-based in-person speaking engagement. Appearances which require an extended schedule of activities or international travel will possibly exceed this fee range. Speaker fees update frequently. To receive a personalized quote for Akbar Gbajabiamila to speak at your event, please consult with a Key Speakers advisor for up to date information and assistance.What factors influence the speaker's fee?
Other factors that influence a keynote speaker's fee include their reputation, expertise, demand, experience, duration of the presentation, travel requirements for the event location, and any additional services, activities or customization options they offer.Are travel expenses included in the speaker's fee?
Travel expenses are typically not included in the listed speaker's fee and are quoted separately. If the speaker needs to travel internationally, fees will be higher. These expenses may include airfare, accommodation, ground transportation at home and in the event city, and meals. We can provide more detailed information about travel expenses and arrangements once you've selected a speaker.How do I book Akbar Gbajabiamila for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Akbar Gbajabiamila's availability, fees, and any unique requirements (we can also help negotiate fees and terms); submit a firm offer to extend the invite to your speaker, with the details used to create an agreement once the speaker accepts; coordinate and finalize the terms of the booking, including contract terms and conditions; and confirm the booking by signing the contract and making the necessary payments.What types of events do keynote speakers typically speak at?
Keynote speakers can speak at a wide range of events, virtual or in person, including conferences, corporate meetings, industry conventions, seminars, workshops, fundraising galas, educational programs, and other special occasions where an inspirational or informative address is desired.How do I select the right keynote speaker for my event?
When selecting a keynote speaker, consider the following factors: the speaker's expertise and knowledge relevant to your event's theme or industry; their speaking style, ability to engage the audience, and deliver impactful messages; past client testimonials, reviews, or references; and the speaker's availability and fee within your budget.What are the payment terms and conditions?
A deposit is required upon signing the contract, with the remaining balance due 2–4 weeks before the event. If the event is taking place within 30 days, the full balance is due upon signing.How far in advance should I book a keynote speaker?
It is generally advisable to book a keynote speaker as early as possible, especially if you have a specific speaker in mind or if your event is during a peak season holiday. Ideally, booking a speaker three to six months in advance can increase the chances of securing your desired speaker.Can you help me with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation?
Yes, we can assist you with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation. We stay actively involved during pre-event planning to coordinate with you and ensure that the necessary audiovisual equipment, staging, lighting, and other technical aspects are in place for a successful presentation.Are there any special requirements or accommodations that need to be considered for the speaker?
Keynote speakers may have specific requirements or accommodations that need to be considered, such as travel arrangements, accommodation preferences, dietary restrictions, or accessibility needs. Some speakers have a performance rider we include in the contract, others have minimal requirements.Do keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations?
Yes, many keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations. They can tailor their content, examples, or case studies to align with your event's theme, industry, or specific audience. Discuss your customization needs with us so we can guide you accordingly.Can the speaker participate in pre-event activities such as panel discussions or Q&A sessions?
Some keynote speakers are open to participating in pre-event activities such as panel discussions, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greet sessions. Please share your specific requirements with us during the firm offer phase, so we can work on getting you everything you need.How long is a typical keynote speech?
The duration of a standard keynote speech can vary depending on the speaker and the event's schedule. Typically, keynote speeches range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, including any Q&A sessions or interactive elements. Some speakers can accommodate half or full day sessions and extended keynotes. Discuss the desired duration with your representative to determine the appropriate length for participation.Can I provide feedback or reviews about the speaker's performance?
Yes, we encourage and appreciate feedback about the speaker's performance as well as our services. You can share your feedback via email after the event, or via our survey feedback form. Your feedback can help us improve our services and assist other clients in making informed decisions.Are there any discounts or special offers available for booking multiple speakers or multiple events?
Often, yes. It's worth inquiring about such possibilities with your Key Speakers representative to explore any available cost-savings options.Why book Akbar Gbajabiamila through Key Speakers?
We provide a comprehensive service that takes the guesswork out of hiring a speaker — from speaker selection to logistics to post-event feedback. We know you have lots of responsibilities on top of finding and coordinating event speakers, so having a committed and proactive partner on your side that is an expert with the talent booking process is crucial. Every time you book a speaker with Key, your dedicated events manager will support you throughout the entire planning process. We help you negotiate contractual details such as speaker fees and travel terms so that you end up with the most favorable deal. With our highly communicative booking and proposal model, you'll never be left in the dark with the status of your speaker. To put it simply, Key Speakers is your one-stop resource for finding, booking and managing speakers for your event.
Speakers Like Akbar Gbajabiamila
Jackie Joyner-Kersee
Three-time Olympic Gold Medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee has built one of the most illustrious athletic careers in the world of track & field. Her performance in the heptathlon and long jump in the 1984, 1988 and 1992 Summer Olympics, made her a legend. Jackie Joyner-Kersee has set over 18 athletic records, received over 24 recognition awards, is a successful businesswoman, respected community leader, and a dynamic motivational speaker who inspires audiences to go after their dreams with passion and commitment. Working with the 77-year-old Farm Foundation and the United States Department of Agriculture, Jackie has embarked upon a nationwide effort to enhance the comprehensive health of our nation’s communities through the promotion of healthy lifestyles.
Fee Range: $20,000–$45,000
Travels From: MO
Angela Bassett
Alluring audiences with emotionally tinged performances has been the signature of Angela Bassett, who personifies a sense of dignity and pride whenever she appears on screen. Her talent and abilities as an actress and executive producer in both television and film have time and time again earned the respect and acclaim from her peers and fans, proving her to be one of the industry's premier leading ladies. Bassett recently starred with Samuel L. Jackson in the Broadway premiere of Katori Hall’s Olivier Award-winning play “Mountaintop,” a gripping reimagining of events the night before the assassination of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Fee Range: Inquire
Travels From: CA
Speech Thomas
Known for consistently pushing the artistic and social envelope, Speech’s keynote mixed with a musical performance makes for an EXPERIENCE. Speech Thomas was born in the same year that Dr. Martin Luther King was assassinated. He was born into a time when it could not be more clear just how dangerous it is to be a Brave Leader. Years later, as he entered the hip-hop scene in the early 90s, when the glorification of racist and oppressive stereotypes defined the genre, Speech and Arrested Development proved that speaking from a place of love and honesty can help you rise to the top of your industry. Speech Thomas and Arrested Development embody what Brave Leadership is all about and are a living, breathing, singing, and jamming representation of what is possible when we dare to break the mold, work together, and DO DIFFERENTLY.
Fee Range: $20,000–$30,000
Travels From: GA
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