Biography
Yara Shahidi is an actress, producer, change agent and breakout star of ABC’s Emmy- and Golden Globe- nominated comedy ABC series black-ish, and its spinoff Grown-ish, on Freeform. Currently in season 3, Shahidi stars as Zoey Johnson, an ambitious, fashion forward college student figuring out adulthood. It is a drastic change from her comfortable and posh upbringing in suburbia, as the daughter of a doctor and advertising executive. The series tackles important issues facing both students and administrators in the world of higher education. Since black-ish launched in 2014, Shahidi has been awarded a NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress, a Gracie Award for Female in a Breakthrough Role and, most recently, highlighted on TIME Magazine’s annual 30 Most Influential Teens list as well as Forbes 30 Under 30 in 2017 and 2018 respectively on behalf of her television contributions and humanitarianism. Shahidi is definitely one of Hollywood’s most heralded young talents as she continues to use her platform to empower and inspire others. Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Shahidi actually received her start alongside her mother appearing in several international commercial and print campaigns. Her first major film came when she was offered the opportunity to audition for the role of Olivia Danielson in the Paramount film IMAGINE THAT opposite Eddie Murphy. She quickly took to the role of the creative and happy-go-lucky daughter to Murphy, bolstering her love of acting. Shahidi’s extensive film roles include Sony Pictures’ UNTHINKABLE as the daughter of Samuel L. Jackson; Columbia Pictures’ SALT opposite Angelina Jolie; Summit Entertainment’s ALEX CROSS as the daughter of Tyler Perry; and the film BUTTER where she starred opposite Jennifer Garner. Shahidi’s most recent film from Warner Bros. THE SUN IS ALSO A STAR released Spring 2019 explored a love story alongside one of the most pressing issues of the century, immigration and inclusion. Written by Nicola Yoon and directed by Ry Russo, the film was also a love letter to New York City celebrating love for interconnectedness as well as humanity. Off-screen, Shahidi continues to use her platform to inspire others to be engaged in the political process. In 2016, the young star launched Eighteen by 18 to educate and motivate first time voters to turn out for the 2018 mid-term elections. She also created Yara’s Club in partnership with The Young Women’s Leadership Schools in NYC – a digital meet-up for high school students to discuss societal issues, self-improvement and higher education. She continues to champion STEM programs and resources for young students across the country and used her platform to advocate for funding for classrooms in need of science and tech resources. Shahidi also collaborated with the Obama administration on several White House STEM initiatives. Yara is an advocate for women’s issues, including diversity in media and girls’ education, and has worked with the United Nations Girl Up initiative and spotlighted in the New York Times Variety’s Youth Impact and Next Big Thing issues. The young business-woman was profiled in The Hollywood Reporter’s Young Hollywood issue which identified her as leader of the New Hollywood guard. Shahidi is a recipient of the esteemed Daily Point of Light Award from the Points of Light organization and was honored at Essence Magazine’s 10th Black Women in Hollywood Awards and received the BET’s Young Star Award in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Last fall, Shahidi formed 7th Sun Productions in partnership with Keri and Afshin Shahidi.
Speech Topics
The Lack of Quality Roles for Diversity in Hollywood
How Being Multi-Cultural Has Shaped Her World
Girls in STEM
STEM & Computer Science
Diversity in Media
Women & Girls Empowerment
The Power of Inclusion
Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check Yara Shahidi's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Yara Shahidi'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 Yara Shahidi's speaking fee?
The typical range for Yara Shahidi's speaking fee is $93,000–$125,000. 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 Yara Shahidi 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 Yara Shahidi for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Yara Shahidi'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 Yara Shahidi 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 Yara Shahidi
Leland Melvin
•Leland is the first person drafted into the National Football League to have also flown in space. •He was featured on National Geographic's One Strange Rock, hosted by Will Smith, where he explained how his brain repaired itself after an injury that left him deaf and almost stopped him from ever going to space. •Even after being medically disqualified to fly in space by NASA flight surgeons, •Leland completed two Space Shuttle missions to help build the International Space Station. •Leland served as the co-chair of the White House's Federal Coordination in STEM Education Task Force, developing the nation's 5-year plan for STEM education, and as NASA Associate Administrator for Education. •His memoir, Chasing Space, shares his personal journey from the gridiron to the stars. •Leland served as a consultant on National Geographic's second season of Mars..
Fee Range: $25,000–$44,000
Travels From: VA
Daryl Davis
“How can you hate me when you don’t even know me?” As the only Black Cub Scout marching in an otherwise all-White parade, Daryl Davis formed that simple yet powerful question after he was pelted by rocks, bottles and soda pop cans by a handful of White spectators. This was his first encounter with racism at age ten. Pursuit of an answer led this career performing musician on a surreal journey stemming from a chance encounter with a man who turned out to be a member of the Ku Klux Klan. Seeking to understand, not to change minds or judge, Daryl actually built bridges with leaders from a group that professed hatred for him. Some came to quit the Klan and gave Daryl their robes and hoods when they did. In the process he has unearthed truths about conflict, hate, intolerance, and communication that are valuable today. His extraordinary journey is chronicled in his first book, Klan-Destine Relationships and the documentary about his encounters, Accidental Courtesy. As a speaker, Daryl’s impact on audiences is profound – his TEDx talk has over 10 million views.
Fee Range: $15,500–$18,500
Travels From: MD
Linda Johnson Rice
As Chairman Emeritus of Ebony Media Holdings, Chairman of Johnson Publishing Company, LLC, and second-generation leader of the largest African-American-owned publishing company in the United States – producing the iconic magazines Ebony and Jet – Rice has not only chronicled much of American history, she has lived it and shaped it. Throughout her extraordinary life as a woman entrepreneur in the media and beauty industry she has given voice to millions and helped tell the story of the African-American experience in America, with all its many trials and triumphs. Now, audiences can hear as she shares the invaluable lessons she’s gained by building a world-renowned business brand, as well as her view of how far we’ve come as a nation and where we go from here. While Rice is visually impaired, she continues to remain actively engaged in her leadership role and speaking events.
Fee Range: $18,000–$25,000
Travels From: IL
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