Kenyatta Leal: The Last Mile
- Highlights:
- Adversity: Incarcerated with a life sentence
- Advocacy: Leads and is active in a host of self-help programs for prisoners
- Travels from: San Francisco, CA
- **Fee range: On Request
Keynote Topics
Read Full Bio
Kenyatta Leal is a speaker and founding member, former Business Development Specialist, and former Board Member of The Last Mile program at San Quentin State Prison.
Kenyatta held management and sales positions at the San Francisco-based technology community, RocketSpace, before transitioning into the social impact space full time.
Kenyatta served as Next Chapter’s Re-entry Manager, then Re-entry Director, before becoming Executive Director in 2021.
Chrisfino Kenyatta Leal is a founding member of The Last Mile program at San Quentin.
Upon his release in 2013, Kenyatta served as an evangelist and Board Member at The Last Mile while holding Management and Sales positions with the San Francisco based technology campus RocketSpace. In 2018 Kenyatta joined The Last Mile full time as a Business Development Specialist and Reentry Manager for Next Chapter, an apprenticeship program at Slack that’s helping formerly incarcerated individuals find work and succeed in tech. In 2021 Kenyatta took on the role of Executive Director at Next Chapter.
Growing up with an absent father, Kenyatta’s dealing with drugs and robbery with firearms led him to a life sentence in the San Quentin, California prison at the age of 22.
But when he turned 25, someone gave him a chance in spite of his past and hired him full time. He went to real estate school and asked plumbers and electricians questions like, “How did you fix that?” He learned quickly.
In prison, Kenyatta learned about The Last Mile, an entrepreneurship program for inmates. “I was always looking for a way to channel my entrepreneurial energy and gift.”
The Last Mile inspired Kenyatta to launch Code.7370, an education program that teaches incarcerated individuals how to code.
To overcome the challenge of no internet connection, Code.7370 created a proprietary programming platform that simulates a live coding experience. Once inmates graduate, they’re invited to join TLMworks, the first web development agency to provide individuals coming out of prison with the opportunity to earn a living, professional wage.
Kenyatta Leal now helps train Fortune 500 companies to hire and retain employees who are exiting the criminal justice system, to create more inclusive work opportunities for those starting their second chance.
Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter
Kenyatta Leal | Reformed Speaker
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!
View further speakers
- (20)
Kym Priess is an emcee, comedian, actor, songwriter, and acting coach, Kym embodies the essence of entertainment. With her innate talent, she brings joy, creativity, and humor to every event she hosts. Are you in search of an event emcee who can captivate audiences, infuse humor, and ensure an unforgettable experience? Kym Priess | Event […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Event Emcee
- (21)
Se-ah-dom Edmo (Shoshone-Bannock, Nez Perce and Yakama) brings deep experience in community organizing for racial and social justice work across the nation. Prior to joining Seeding Justice, Se-ah-dom served as the Sovereignty Program Director at Western States Center where she was the coalition convener of Tribal History: Shared History (Senate Bill 13, 2017) in Oregon, which established and funded […]
- Travels from: Gresham, OR
- Native Americans
- (15)
Susanna Spies, widely known as Comedy Mama, is a dynamic comedian, performer, and educator who has dedicated her career to spreading laughter and empowerment through humor. With her signature blend of sharp wit, insightful storytelling, and an engaging stage presence, she captivates audiences of all backgrounds—whether on stage as a stand-up comedian, leading corporate comedy […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Comedian Performers
- (11)
Born in his native Scotland, Jordan Campbell excels in engaging audiences in a professional & interactive fashion – in Atlanta & across the USA. An award-winning Event & TV Host, Emcee & Auctioneer, Jordan loves to connect with guests in a professional & lively fashion. Having spoken in front of the British Royal Family & […]
- Travels from: Atlanta, GA
- Event Emcee
- (35)
Lisa Ling is the executive producer and host of This is Life with Lisa Ling on CNN. Lisa explores the scourge prescription pill addiction in Utah, the recent influx of women in North Dakota’s boomtown and a town in the rural Midwest where young men aspire to be priests. For five seasons prior, Ling executive produced and […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Journalism Speakers
- (66)
Nick Santonastasso is a medical miracle. Not only is he one of four people with the rare genetic condition, Hanhart Syndrome, the inspirational keynote speaker is an internationally known bodybuilder and fitness model—despite missing both his legs and one arm since birth. Nick did the unthinkable when he became a varsity wrestler in high school. […]
- Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
- Inspirational Speakers
- (15)
Jim Knight is a renowned keynote speaker, author, and training and development expert known for his expertise in helping organizations of all sizes achieve excellence and what he often refers to as “rock star” status. With a background in education and a passion for helping individuals and organizations reach their full potential, Jim Knight has […]
- Travels from: Winter Garden, FL
- Motivational Speakers
- (9)
Natalia Bilbao is a renowned event host and emcee with over a decade of experience captivating audiences across diverse industries. Known for her energy, charisma, and bilingual proficiency in both English and Spanish, Natalie has established herself as a top choice for high-profile corporate, entertainment, and cultural events. Her ability to seamlessly engage with international […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Event Emcee
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.
