Biography
Wesley Hamilton's story starts in the heart of Kansas City, where he's not just another entrepreneur. He's a beacon of resilience, a testament to the power of the human spirit, and an everyday man turned global speaker and change-maker as the Founder/CEO of 'The Disabled But Not Really Foundation.' Wes's academic background, which includes an associate's degree in liberal arts and multiple certifications, is impressive. But his life experiences and mindset shifts truly set him apart. He's put his heart into making his hometown, Kansas City, more welcoming for everyone, advocating for accessibility everywhere, from local parks to the international airport. In 2020, with a renewed vision, he ventured into consulting, emphasizing the importance of diversity and accessible events. Wes speaks of transformation across platforms, from TEDx stages to universities like Penn State. His talks are not just presentations but narratives of his perspective shift, overcoming challenging circumstances, and embracing a purpose-driven life. His resilience hasn't gone unnoticed. Awards like the 2021 Craig H. Nielson Foundation Visionary Award Recipient and multiple features in outlets like Netflix's 'Queer Eye' and ‘CNN' have highlighted his journey. But behind the accolades is a profound story: At 24 a tragic shooting left Wes paralyzed. Instead of letting this define his life, Wes underwent a decisive shift in mindset. He leaned into fitness, reshaped his world, and eventually became an inspiration for countless others. Today, with the 'Disabled But Not Really Foundation' and his consulting work, Wes continues to inspire. He's more than a speaker; he's a living testament to the idea that our circumstances don't define us—our mindset and actions do.
Speech Topics
One-On-One Interviews & Media Appearances
More than just public speaking, Wes has shared his story on countless media platforms at this point. From local outlets such as KCTV5, KMBC9, and more, to global outlets such as BBC Radio London, Good Morning America, and CNN, Wesley has inspired audiences around the world to take control of their potential. His transformative makeover with the Queer Eye guys still generates conversation. His CNN Heroes profile If your media organization is looking for unique perspective on people achieving with disability, issues around inclusiveness and intersectionality, or any of the other topics listed on this site, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
From Paralyzed to Purpose Driven
Wesley Hamilton’s journey after surviving multiple gunshots in his abdomen will inspire every human on the earth. His quintessential stories of courage, strength and perseverance resonates with participants long after any talk he’s ever delivered. Wes instills the essential tools of positivity, self-awareness, empowerment, resilience, and acceptance in the face of any challenge. He believes “the highest human act is to inspire” – and that is exactly why he is profoundly affecting human hearts of all ages, races, lifestyles and backgrounds worldwide.
Overcoming Any Obstacle By Allowing Disruption
Most people in life understand adversity but how many of us welcome it? In this keynote, Wesley will take you on a journey of how to overcome obstacles by truly embracing them. He will teach you how to accept things that may seem questionable; and how to find a positive lesson in all things. Our life is shaped by about 10% of what happens to us, and 90% of how we react to those happenings. In this incredibly inspirational talk, Wesley will also provide an understanding on how to value your life in a way that adversity becomes something we embrace because the rewards are endless!
Change the Way the World Sees Disabilities
Despite the attempts for many organizations to embrace inclusivity, there is still a lack of disability awareness training. During this session, Wesley will provide a breakdown of common misconceptions people have around disabilities. He will also share a number of accessibility challenges he faces every day, which may be impacting your business without you even knowing it. By the end, Wes will help enable your team to develop a more empathetic and understanding culture by removing any barriers that may exist. In turn, it will also create a working environment for your organization that welcomes and accommodates new and existing employees with disabilities.
Mastering Your Potential
Are you ready to take control of your life? Become more aware of who you are? Learn better time management, and goal setting? This keynote is for you. Wesley takes his audience on a journey of learning who they are inside and out addressing wellness, nutrition, well-being and personal/professional development. Wesley shares his stories on how he started a successful non-profit organization; how he stays fit, even winning bodybuilding competitions; how he never lost hope or accepted failure – and teaches his listeners how to do the same. Wes also has a culinary passion, and shares his success secrets on how he lost over 100 pounds. This is a great keynote for all ages, and will leave you with key insights, tools & action steps so that anyone can master their full potential no matter their abilities or circumstances. People can relax and sit back, laugh, learn and feel supported.
Videos
Testimonials
"“For me it was perfect. Wish we had more time for Q&A but thats all. Wesley was GREAT”."
"“Wesley’s keynote was FANTASTIC!!! Many of the attendees met him around in advance and were excited to hear him speak. Afterwards, there was a line for handshakes, photos and exchanging cards! He was really great, and our members really enjoyed his story!”"
"“He had my mascara running for sure!”"
"“Wesley was GREAT. Everyone really enjoyed him. We all loved, ‘Don't give your energy to something that will not make you better.’""
"We had a fantastic time with Wesley and have gotten a lot of great feedback from attendees. Thank you and your team!"
"The event was WONDERFUL! Please pass along a huge THANK YOU to Welsey. He brought amazing energy, insights, and passion to the event, it was really great."
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check Wesley Hamilton's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Wesley Hamilton'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 Wesley Hamilton's speaking fee?
The typical range for Wesley Hamilton's speaking fee is $10,000–$17,000. 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 Wesley Hamilton 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 Wesley Hamilton for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Wesley Hamilton'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 Wesley Hamilton 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 Wesley Hamilton
Rev. Nontombi Naomi Tutu
As the daughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Naomi Tutu struggled to find her own place in the world. As a human rights advocate, she pulls from her personal challenges of growing up black and female in apartheid South Africa. Her professional experience ranges from being a development consultant in West Africa, to a program coordinator for race and gender-based violence in education at the African Gender Institute at the University of Cape Town. In addition, Tutu has taught at the University of Hartford and Brevard College in North Carolina. She also leads workshops on conflict resolution and racism. In addition to speaking, Tutu is a consultant for the Spiritual Alliance to Stop Intimate Violence (SAIV), founded by renowned author Riane Eisler and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Betty Williams, and the Foundation for Hospices in Sub-Saharan Africa (FHSSA). Audiences are captivated by her story growing up in apartheid South Africa and moved by her message of healing and wholeness.
Fee Range: $12,500–$15,000
Travels From: GA
Princess Sarah Culberson
Princess Sarah Culberson is an African princess who discovered her royal heritage in Sierra Leone in her late twenties. She is the host of the "Modern Royalty" podcast, where she delves into the lives and insights of individuals who are redefining what it means to be royalty in today's world. Her journey has captivated audiences worldwide, garnering features on CNN, GMA, and BBC, among other prominent media outlets. Her compelling story is the inspiration behind her coauthored book, "A Princess Found," which Disney has acquired to adapt into a major motion picture. With over 15 years of experience in education, Princess Sarah has been invited to speak globally at NASA, Wells Fargo, Princeton University, and many others. Her expertise has led her to roles including president and co-founder of Sierra Leone Rising, a nonprofit organization, and a businesswoman in the entertainment industry, with her work reaching global audiences. Sierra Leone Rising supports initiatives such as keeping young girls in school, constructing wells for clean drinking water, and promoting cultural understanding through coding. Her contributions have been recognized with the Trumpet Impact Award, highlighting her efforts to foster a culture of belonging on a large scale.
Fee Range: $17,000–$20,000
Travels From: CA
Claude Steele
Claude M. Steele is an American social psychologist and a Professor of Psychology at Stanford University. He is best known for his work on stereotype threat and its application to minority student academic performance. His earlier work dealt with research on the self (e.g., self-image, self-affirmation) as well as the role of self-regulation in addictive behaviors. In 2010, he released his book, Whistling Vivaldi and Other Clues to How Stereotypes Affect Us, summarizing years of research on stereotype threat and the underperformance of minority students in higher education.
Fee Range: $8,000–$15,000
Travels From: CA
Sampson Davis, MD
Sampson Davis, MD, is an infectious, compelling storyteller that all should hear. His true rags-to-riches journey leaves audiences inspired and filled with motivation. Growing up in one of America’s toughest cities, he made the transition from life-threatening quarters to a highly sought-after professional speaker, best-selling author and specially skilled, life-saving physician. Davis spends his time practicing medicine and traveling the country delivering keynote speeches with timely messages. Davis believes it is important to give education a sense of style and fashion. To glorify and glamorize education is the key. A face must be present, a concrete image that all individuals across America can draw inspiration from. Davis considers his 3 D’s, Dedication, Determination and Discipline, as the necessary ingredients to success. Davis’ speeches will detail topics including mental health, substance abuse, diversity in the medical field and his calling to care as an act of reciprocity.
Fee Range: $15,000–$30,000
Travels From: NJ
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