Elizabeth Smart: Inspirational Speaker
Survivor, advocate, and inspirational keynote speaker Elizabeth Smart empowers audiences with powerful insights on resilience, recovery, and transforming trauma into purpose-driven change.
Quick Facts:
- Highlights:
- Survivor of one of the most widely followed child abduction cases
- Founder of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation
- International keynote speaker on resilience, recovery, and advocacy
- Influential voice in child protection policy and prevention
- Formats: Inspirational keynote speaker, advocate, author
- Audiences: Organizations, educators, healthcare professionals, leaders, and communities focused on resilience, safety, and trauma-informed growth
- Outcomes:
- Greater understanding of resilience and recovery after trauma
- Insight into advocacy, prevention, and protective action
- Renewed belief in hope, healing, and personal strength
- Travels from: Salt Lake City, UT
- **Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000
Talent Services
Keynote Topics:
OVERCOMING ADVERSITY: THE ELIZABETH SMART STORY
The abduction of Elizabeth Smart was one of the most followed child abduction cases of our time.
At the tender age of 14, just before celebrating her middle school graduation, Elizabeth went to sleep in her family home just as she had always done. Awakened hours later to a knife held roughly against her throat, she was taken from her home and family and held captive for nine long months.
In this captivating message, Elizabeth shares her incredible story of perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Her speech not only tells her personal story, but also discusses topics such as overcoming extreme adversity, the importance and process of recovery, and not allowing your past to dictate your life’s future.
Elizabeth knows that there is nothing more important than having hope in a difficult situation. Having lived through an extreme circumstance as a young teenager, Elizabeth gives great insight and hope to all.
Talent Short Bio
Elizabeth Smart is a globally recognized keynote speaker, author, and advocate whose story of survival and resilience has inspired millions. At age 14, Elizabeth was abducted from her home in Salt Lake City and held captive for nine months, enduring sustained abuse and constant threats against her life and her family.
Rescued in 2003, Elizabeth chose not to be defined by her trauma. Instead, she transformed her experience into a lifelong mission to protect others, educate communities, and drive meaningful policy change. Her courage was powerfully demonstrated when she testified against her captor, helping secure his conviction and reclaiming her voice on a global stage.
Elizabeth is the founder of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, which focuses on prevention, recovery, and advocacy related to child abduction and sexual violence. Through her work, she has supported national safety initiatives and legislation, including the AMBER Alert system and child protection laws designed to safeguard vulnerable children.
As a speaker, Elizabeth delivers deeply moving, thoughtfully grounded presentations that balance honesty with hope. Her message resonates across audiences, offering insight into trauma recovery, resilience, and the human capacity to heal and lead with purpose.
Read Full Bio
Elizabeth Smart’s story of survival and resilience captivated the world when, at just 14 years old, she was abducted from her home in Salt Lake City, Utah. For nine grueling months, she endured unimaginable abuse before being miraculously rescued. Today, Elizabeth is not just a survivor; she is a symbol of hope, a powerful advocate for change, and a globally recognized keynote speaker. Her journey serves as a living testament that even in the darkest times, there is a path to healing and transformation.
Through her work as an author, advocate, and speaker, Elizabeth has become an influential figure in the fight against child abduction and abuse. Her voice extends beyond her personal experience as she champions for policy change, inspires audiences worldwide, and works to protect and support those who have suffered trauma. Elizabeth’s ability to take her personal tragedy and turn it into a mission of advocacy and education makes her a trusted and compelling speaker.
The abduction of Elizabeth Smart was one of the most followed child abduction cases of our time. Elizabeth was abducted on June 5, 2002, and her captors controlled her by threatening to kill her and her family if she tried to escape.
Fortunately, the police safely returned Elizabeth back to her family on March 12, 2003, after being held a prisoner for 9 grueling months. Through this traumatic experience, Elizabeth has become an advocate for change related to child abduction, recovery programs, and National legislation.
Elizabeth triumphantly testified before her captor and the world about the very private nightmare she suffered during her abduction, which led to conviction. The Founder of the “Elizabeth Smart Foundation”, Elizabeth has also helped promote The National AMBER Alert, The Adam Walsh Child Protection & Safety Act and other safety legislation to help prevent abductions.
She married her husband Matthew in 2012, and they now have two beautiful children. Elizabeth’s example is a daily demonstration that there really is life after tragedy.
View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter
Videos
Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry
No reviews available for this post.
Talent FAQ's
Do speakers charge a flat fee or by the hour?
Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
What is the typical duration of a keynote speech and what is included?
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
Does the scale of the event and audience size affect a speaker’s fee?
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
Travel expenses and other costs
Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.
Deposits and securing a booking
Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.
Additional tips and takeaways
- Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
- There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
- Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
- When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
- Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
- Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
- Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
You may be interested in...
- (17)
Ellie Shefi epitomizes resilience and determination. Despite enduring a lifetime of challenges, including abuse, homelessness, cancer, and ongoing health struggles, Ellie has consistently defied the odds and embraced a life of empowerment and service to others. Her journey is a testament to the power of mindset, resilience, and resourcefulness. As an attorney, entrepreneur, best-selling author, […]
- Travels from: Nashville, TN
- GBV Speakers
- (6)
- (1)
Tom Coverly is a world-renowned entertainer, celebrated for his remarkable ability to blend comedy, magic, and motivational speaking into an unforgettable experience. Known as “The Illusionist,” Tom captivates audiences with jaw-dropping magic tricks and heartwarming humor, while delivering powerful life lessons that resonate deeply with people of all ages. Having performed for millions across the […]
- Travels from: Pensacola, FL
- Motivational Speakers
- (51)
Dr. Jessica Kriegel is a renowned workplace culture strategist, researcher, and speaker dedicated to transforming company cultures for business success. With a dynamic presence and an evidence-based approach, she has helped Fortune 100 companies, global brands, and industry leaders foster intentional cultures that drive performance, innovation, and employee engagement. Her expertise lies in decoding organizational […]
- Travels from: Sacramento, CA
- Culture Speakers
- (26)
Sara Dean is not your average speaker. With over a decade of experience in leadership development, executive coaching, and organizational psychology, Sara brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to her presentations. As the founder of a successful coaching consultancy, Sara has worked with Fortune 500 companies, startups, and nonprofits alike, helping leaders at all […]
- Travels from: Seattle, WA
- Leadership Speakers
- (56)
W Mitchell once guided passengers up the famous hills of San Francisco, as a strong and entertaining cable-car gripman. Amazingly, the same scenario holds true today! As an award-winning keynote speaker, he now guides audiences uphill and empowers them to take responsibility for life’s inevitable challenges and to embrace the power of taking charge. As […]
- Travels from: San Francisco, CA
- Inspirational Speakers
- (34)
Lisa Powell Graham, MPA, is a visionary leader, boasting over two decades of remarkable achievements in campaign management, strategic planning, fundraising, communications, and community organizing. With a passion for driving positive change and a proven track record of success, Lisa stands as a beacon of inspiration and expertise in her field. Lisa Powell Graham’s journey […]
- Travels from: San Francisco, CA
- Leadership Speakers
- (34)
- (1)
Jeff Civillico stands out as a unique blend of entertainer and inspirational speaker. His presentations are not just informative; they are interactive, engaging, and downright fun! With a background deeply rooted in entertainment, Jeff seamlessly incorporates humor and captivating routines from his acclaimed Las Vegas show, “Comedy in Action,” into his speeches. This fusion of […]
- Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
- Motivational Speakers
- (13)
Kudzi Chikumbu, a dynamic force in the realms of lifestyle influence and digital creativity. As the Global Head of Creator Marketing at TikTok, Kudzi is at the forefront of innovation, shaping the future of social media and empowering creators worldwide. With a wealth of expertise, a passion for storytelling, and a commitment to driving positive […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Digital Speakers
Disclaimer
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
Fee Range Information
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.