Immaculée Ilibagiza: Inspirational Speaker

Genocide survivor and forgiveness keynote speaker Immaculée Ilibagiza delivers transformative lessons on faith, healing, and reconciliation, guiding audiences toward resilience, compassion, and profound personal growth.

Quick Facts:

  • Highlights:
    • Survived the 1994 Rwandan genocide while hidden for 91 days
    • Bestselling author of Left to Tell, Our Lady of Kibeho, and additional works on faith and spiritual growth
    • Globally recognized keynote speaker on forgiveness, resilience, and reconciliation
    • Honored by international organizations for contributions to peace and human rights
  • Formats: Keynote Speaker
  • Audiences: Corporate teams, academic institutions, faith-based groups, humanitarian organizations, and communities seeking profound insights on forgiveness, healing, and compassionate leadership.
  • Outcomes:
    1. A practical understanding of forgiveness as a transformative tool for personal and professional growth.
    2. Renewed resilience through lessons on faith, healing, and navigating adversity.
    3. Stronger organizational culture rooted in empathy, compassion, and shared humanity.
Reading time: 2 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • **Fee range: On Request

Talent Services

Keynote Topics:

A Story of Peace, Hope and Forgiveness

In a moving and unforgettable presentation, Immaculée Ilibagiza shares with audiences her experience surviving the Rwanda genocide.

She discusses the political and social factors that led up to the genocide, how she struggled to stay alive, and where she is today. Immaculée then shares what led her to be able to forgive her killers, and how that kind of compassion and strength translates into everyday life.

Her incredible story and attitude to overcome will encourage everyone who listens to her to hold onto hope.

Talent Short Bio

Immaculée Ilibagiza is an internationally acclaimed keynote speaker and bestselling author whose extraordinary story of survival, faith, and forgiveness has inspired millions around the world. During the 1994 Rwandan genocide, she spent 91 days hidden in a small bathroom with seven other women, facing unimaginable fear and loss. Through intense prayer, meditation, and unwavering faith, she discovered a path to inner healing that would shape her life’s mission.

Her memoir, Left to Tell, has become a global phenomenon, celebrated for its emotional depth and its powerful message of forgiveness. Immaculée has since authored multiple books, including Our Lady of Kibeho and The Rosary, further solidifying her influence as a leading voice on spiritual resilience and peacebuilding.

She has addressed audiences across corporate, educational, faith-based, and international humanitarian sectors, sharing profound insights on healing trauma, cultivating compassion, and transforming adversity into purpose. Her message resonates deeply because it is grounded in lived experience and delivered with humility, clarity, and hope.

Immaculée Ilibagiza is a remarkable and inspirational speaker whose powerful story of survival and forgiveness has resonated with audiences worldwide. A Rwandan genocide survivor, Ilibagiza’s journey from the depths of despair to becoming a leading advocate for peace and reconciliation is both moving and transformative. Her story is one of extraordinary courage and unwavering faith, making her an ideal choice for organizations seeking a speaker who can deliver a profound message of hope and resilience.

Immaculée Ilibagiza’s life changed dramatically during the 1994 Rwandan genocide, a period of unimaginable horror and suffering. Amidst the violence, she found refuge in a small bathroom with seven other women for 91 days. During this time, she relied on prayer and meditation to endure the brutal circumstances. Her extraordinary experience is detailed in her bestselling memoir, Left to Tell: Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust. This book has not only captivated readers but also established Ilibagiza as a leading voice on forgiveness, faith, and the human spirit’s resilience.

Her role as an advocate for peace and human rights extends beyond her speaking engagements. Immaculée has been involved in numerous humanitarian efforts and continues to work towards preventing violence and promoting reconciliation. Her dedication to these causes further underscores her credibility and the impact of her message.

Immaculée Ilibagiza’s extraordinary journey from the Rwandan genocide to becoming a global symbol of forgiveness and resilience makes her an unparalleled speaker. Her ability to convey deep and transformative messages of hope, faith, and personal growth has made her a sought-after voice in the speaking circuit. For event planners seeking to deliver a profound and inspirational experience, Immaculée Ilibagiza is an ideal choice.

View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

No reviews available for this post.

Was this profile helpful?

Talent FAQ's

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

  • 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...

  • (32)
Steve Gleason - Image 01 (February 17, 2026)

Steve Gleason received an ALS diagnosis in 2011. He was determined to thrive after the terminal neuromuscular disease diagnosis. He spends his life encouraging others to life with purpose. He and Michel, his wife, formed Team Gleason, with the mission of bringing ALS to the forefront and inspiring others to overcome the challenges of the […]

  • Travels from: New Orleans, LA
  • Inspirational Speakers
  • (9)
Jazmine Rogers

Jazmine Rogers is a tremendously passionate performer. Originally from Memphis, Tennessee and the third of six children, she’s found herself in California due to the lifestyle of a military child. Nevertheless, Jazmine found it a great opportunity to dive into what her heart beats for… entertainment. Highly competent in various art forms, Jazmine enjoys singing, dancing, modeling, and acting. […]

  • Travels from: Riverside, CA
  • Singers
  • (15)
  • (5)
Eric O’Neill - Image 06 (January 23, 2026)

Eric O’Neill is a renowned cybersecurity expert, former FBI counterintelligence operative, attorney, and entrepreneur dedicated to protecting organizations against the ever-evolving threat of cybercrime. With a career that blends real-world espionage with cutting-edge cybersecurity strategies, O’Neill’s expertise is unmatched in identifying and neutralizing threats before they strike. As the founder of The Georgetown Group and […]

  • Travels from: Washington, DC
  • Cybersecurity Speakers
  • (30)
  • (10)
Dan Gingiss

Dan Gingiss is a globally recognized customer experience keynote speaker, consultant, and author, known for his unique ability to turn ordinary customer interactions into extraordinary experiences. His philosophy centers on delivering remarkable customer experiences that not only meet but exceed expectations, transforming passive customers into enthusiastic brand advocates. Dan has spent over 20 years working […]

  • Travels from: Chicago, IL
  • Customer Experience
  • (17)
Amy Blankson

Amy Blankson is a dynamic force in the realms of positivity, digital wellness, and happiness. As the CEO of Fearless Positivity and the Co-Founder of the Digital Wellness Institute, she leads with a mission to empower individuals and organizations to thrive in the digital age. Amy’s multidisciplinary expertise, coupled with her engaging speaking style, has […]

  • Travels from: Fort Worth. TX
  • Happiness Speakers
  • (14)
  • (1)
April Hernandez Castillo

April Hernandez Castillo’s journey from aspiring actress to influential keynote speaker is a testament to her resilience, talent, and unwavering dedication. Her career took a defining turn with her breakthrough role as the “Yo girl” in the Visa Check Card commercial featuring Yao Ming and Yogi Berra. This moment marked the beginning of a remarkable […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • GBV Speakers
  • (25)
Dennis Snow

Dennis Snow is a globally recognized expert in customer experience, leadership, and service excellence. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, Dennis has dedicated his life to helping organizations create unforgettable customer experiences that drive loyalty and business success. His passion for service excellence stems from his 20 years with the Walt Disney Company, […]

  • Travels from: Orlando, FL
  • Customer Experience
  • (8)
The Watercoolers

For nearly 15 years, THE WATER COOLERS have entertained audiences around the world, as far reaching as Singapore and Australia, with their high energy, uncommonly funny, honest take on work and life. Smart phones, conference calls, kids, co-workers, and travel are just a few of the topics this group of top NYC talent turns into […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Comedian Performers
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

AI Assistant
Speakers Inc Logo 2024
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.