Kudzi Chikumbu

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Fees* $20,001 - $35,000

Kudzi Chikumbu presents in:

  • English

Tagline: Lifestyle Influencer

Talent Highlights

  • Kudzi Chikumbu is a lifestyle influencer who shares the transformative power of being a creator on the internet and beyond.
  • Currently the Global Head of Creator Marketing at TikTok, Kudzi is responsible for connecting and building the creator community while advocating for diversity, inclusion, and representation online.
  • He has been listed in Fortune Magazine’s 40 Under 40 list and The Hollywood Reporter’s Next Gen: Hollywood’s 35 Rising Executives 35 and Under. 
  • Kudzi also advocates for making the world of luxury lifestyle more inclusive which is on full display with Sir Candle Man, his candle-loving account which aims to bring a new, relatable, diverse, and inclusive voice to the fragrance industry.

Keynote Topics

With more scrutiny on marketing budgets and recent technology privacy restrictions, it’s harder for marketers to reach their desired target audience. Despite the challenges, Kudzi Chikumbu – known as Sir Candle Man online – has built the exemplary type of engaged niche community many marketers are looking to reach.

In this conversation, Kudzi teaches organizations and creators how to build niche communities, how to sell to them, and how to keep them engaged. Audiences walk away with a fresh playbook on how to approach marketing in an authentic and effective way. 

Between emerging technologies and culture-driven trends, there are constantly new ways to leverage digital spaces. As Global Head of Creator Marketing at TikTok, Kudzi Chikumbu is tapped into the communities – and micro-communities – that are driving tremendous change online.

In this talk, Kudzi discusses the aspects that make social media a unique platform to discover new and diverse voices and the important cultural understanding marketers need to authentically reach these communities.

Kudzi shares with audiences the trends he has seen develop, what he believes the future holds, and how marketers can use this information to discover and target new audiences.

Whether building your personal brand or managing a global company, social media is essential. As Global Head of Creator Marketing at Tik Tok, Kudzi Chikumbu is equipped to provide audiences with a crash course in how to show up digitally – and the perils of doing it wrong.

From expanding your customer base to building a network to self-expression, he explores the limitless potential of the full digital landscape.

In this talk, Kudzi will provide a step-by-step guide to finding your audience and connecting with them authentically online.

Audience takeaways include:

  • How and where to start telling your story
  • How to stand out with all the noise and connect with an audience
  • How to be ahead of the game
  • How to fix it when things go wrong
  • The often-missed secret to success when building a brand online

When Kudzi started his career, he didn’t set out to become the Global Head of Creator Marketing at TikTok – partly because neither the role nor the company existed at the time. However, Kudzi was preparing himself for this role throughout his life simply by living authentically.

After working as an accountant and consultant at Deloitte, he took a leap of faith to follow his long-time ambition to monetize his creative mindset. In this talk, Kudzi meets the audience where they are – a generation that is obsessed with being influencers and creators online – and demonstrates how the principles that make a successful creator can lead to a successful career in any industry. 

He leaves audiences with the 5 guiding principles that have led him through the pivotal moments along his journey as a creator and an executive:

  1. Have a clear why. This is your guiding light.
  2. Have a creator mindset – you can create your best life. Take action.
  3. Be authentic and trust your instincts.
  4. Build a community. We are stronger together so make friends, help others, and ask for help (in that order).
  5. Pivot when you need to. You can change your why.

Audiences will walk away with actionable takeaways to bring their full selves to everything they do and, in turn, create the life and career they want. 

As a black, gay man working in tech, Kudzi Chikumbu stands out every single day. Instead of caving to the pressures of a world full of trends that promote replicating and copying others, Kudzi focuses on authenticity. He makes a point to bring his full self to work and encourages everyone to do the same, whatever their identity is.

Based on his own experiences in the workplace, Kudzi shares how diversity leads to creativity and discusses the power that comes from bringing together different perspectives to achieve success.

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 […]

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 change, Kudzi Chikumbu stands as a beacon of inspiration in the digital age.

About Kudzi Chikumbu:

Kudzi Chikumbu is a visionary leader with a proven track record of driving growth and fostering community engagement. Hailing from Zimbabwe, raised in South Africa and now based in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, Kudzi brings a global perspective to his work, drawing upon diverse experiences to fuel his creative endeavors.

Areas of Expertise:

  • Creator Marketing: At TikTok, Kudzi Chikumbu spearheads initiatives to empower creators, nurture talent, and amplify voices across the platform. His deep understanding of digital trends, audience dynamics, and content strategy enables him to craft impactful campaigns that resonate with audiences worldwide.
  • Innovation and Technology: With a keen eye for emerging technologies and consumer trends, Kudzi is a thought leader in the digital landscape. He navigates the ever-evolving realm of social media with agility, leveraging data-driven insights to drive innovation and drive results.
  • Storytelling and Brand Building: Kudzi Chikumbu is a master storyteller, adept at crafting compelling narratives that capture hearts and minds. His expertise in brand building and strategic communication has helped numerous companies elevate their presence and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: As a champion of diversity and inclusion, Kudzi advocates for representation and authenticity in the media landscape. He is committed to fostering a culture of belonging and empowerment, driving meaningful change within organizations and communities.

Why Book Kudzi Chikumbu as a Keynote Speaker:

  1. Inspiring Storyteller: Kudzi Chikumbu’s journey from Zimbabwe to the global stage is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and creativity. As a keynote speaker, he captivates audiences with his compelling storytelling, sharing insights and lessons learned from his remarkable career.
  2. Thought Leadership: Kudzi is at the forefront of innovation in the digital space, shaping the future of social media and creator culture. His keynote presentations offer invaluable insights into emerging trends, best practices, and strategies for success in the digital age.
  3. Empowering and Engaging: With his infectious enthusiasm and genuine passion for empowering others, Kudzi Chikumbu leaves a lasting impression on audiences. Whether discussing the importance of diversity and inclusion or sharing practical tips for content creation, his keynote presentations inspire action and drive positive change.
  4. Relevance and Impact: In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, Kudzi Chikumbu offers timely and relevant perspectives on the intersection of technology, creativity, and culture. His keynote presentations are tailored to resonate with diverse audiences, sparking meaningful conversations and driving tangible results.
  5. Global Perspective: As a global citizen with a multicultural background, Kudzi brings a unique perspective to his keynote presentations, bridging cultural divides and fostering connections across borders. His insights into the nuances of global markets and audience dynamics make him a sought-after speaker for international events and conferences.

In conclusion, Kudzi Chikumbu is more than just a lifestyle influencer and digital strategist—he is a visionary leader, a passionate advocate for change, and an inspiring storyteller. Whether sharing his expertise on creator marketing, innovation, or diversity and inclusion, Kudzi captivates audiences with his authenticity, energy, and commitment to making a difference. Book him as a keynote speaker and prepare to be inspired, informed, and empowered to unleash your creativity and drive positive change in the world.

This website profile aims to highlight Kudzi Chikumbu’s accomplishments, expertise, and appeal as a keynote speaker, positioning him as a thought leader and inspiration in the digital and creative industries.

View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter

Author Books | Magazine Covers

Send an enquiry to Kudzi Chikumbu

Similar Speakers for consideration

  • 10 Views
Maverick Carter

Maverick Carter, an entrepreneur and CEO, has significantly impacted the sports and media landscape and helped usher in a new era of athlete empowerment. As LeBron James’ longtime business partner and CEO of The SpringHill Company, Carter has channeled his passionate curiosity and determination to uplift others into building brands that develop authentic, award-winning content […]

  • Akron, OH
  • Business Marketing
  • 10 Views
Wendee Lee Curtis Emcee

Wendee Lee Curtis is a veteran Broadway performer turned Keynote Speaker, Emcee, and Moderator for Fortune 500 companies across the globe. With her unique blend of gravitas, fun, and intuition, she has carved her niche as a favorite among corporate giants like Eli Lilly,iCIMS,WEtv, CrowdStrike, Pfizer, Thomson Reuters,  Roche, and Genentech. Wendee Lee Curtis Wendee […]

  • Chicago, IL
  • Team Culture
  • 26 Views
Eric Thomas

Dr. Eric Thomas, affectionately known as “ET, The Hip Hop Preacher,” stands as a beacon of inspiration in the world of motivational speaking. With a Ph.D. to his name, Dr. Thomas transcends traditional boundaries, seamlessly blending the roles of author, speaker, educator, pastor, and Audie Awards Finalist. His journey from adversity to triumph has captivated […]

  • Lansing, MI
  • Motivational Speaker
  • 8 Views

Tamron Hall, a two-time Emmy®-winning journalist, author, producer, trailblazing media personality, and empowering advocate, stands as a beacon of inspiration and change in the realm of transformative conversations. With a magnetic presence and a resonant voice, Hall captivates diverse audiences worldwide, embodying triumph over adversity, unwavering resilience, and a steadfast commitment to empowering others. Tamron […]

  • New York, NY
  • Celebrity Host
  • 9 Views
Kara Adams

Speaker, author, coach and cancer survivor Kara Adams shows women how to step into their true identity as glorious, empowered, magnificent beings. “Don’t let stories from your past keep you in the background and prevent you from living your purpose or achieving your dreams,” says Kara, who gives her audiences 5 Steps to Transformational Love […]

  • San Diego, CA
  • Marketing Strategist
  • 26 Views
Dr. Tana M. Session | Best Kept Secret

Dr. Tana M. Session is an award-winning Consultant, International Speaker, Executive-level Performance Coach, Best-selling Author, recognized Inclusion, Diversity & Multigenerational Thought Leader and Media Contributor. Dr. Session was recently recognized as a “Top Company Culture Consultant” by Fond.co, “Top Employer Branding Expert” by Eightfold.ai, and a Huffington Post “Top Female Expert to Follow.” Tana is […]

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Performance Leadership
  • 10 Views
Tunde Oyeneyin

New York Times Bestselling Author, Peloton Instructor, Nike Athlete and Motivational Speaker, Tunde Oyeneyin, has quickly become a household name, developing a global audience who have been moved by her mission to inspire and create great change. Tunde is a Texas native of Nigerian descent. Growing up, she struggled with her own body image and […]

  • New York, NY
  • Inspirational Speaker
  • 30 Views

Akilah Hughes is a writer, comedian and podcast host, currently residing in Los Angeles, CA. She’s been a digital correspondent for MTV, HBO, Fusion, Comedy Central and more. A Sundance Labs and USC MacArthur Foundation Civic Media Fellow, Razorbill (an imprint of Penguin Random House) published a collection of her personal essays titled Obviously: Stories from […]

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • LGBTQ Speaker
  • 62 Views
  • 5 (3 )

Nichole Pitts is a visionary leader, strategist, and advocate for ethical business practices and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. As the founder and CEO of Ethintegrity, she brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, helping clients navigate the intricate landscape of ethics, compliance, and DEI with finesse and innovation. Nichole is […]

  • Atlanta, GA
  • Ethics Compliance
  • 12 Views
India Arie

India Arie is a four-time Grammy award-winning singer, songwriter, actress, and record producer. She has sold over 10 million records worldwide. Her new short film “Welcome Home – Crazy/Sacred Space” was created to help calm the nation and bring focus to wellness, peace, tranquility and calmness during the pandemic. Being a fierce spiritual warrior navigating […]

  • Nashville, TN
  • Award Winning Singer
  • 12 Views
Shaneé Morgan

As a motivational speaker, professional development trainer, and author, Dr. Shaneé Morgan draws from her personal triumph over adversity to inspire individuals from all walks of life. With a background in Human/Child Development and Behavioral Health Leadership Psychology, Dr. Morgan has dedicated her life to helping others rise above their circumstances and tap into their true potential. […]

  • San Diego, CA
  • Motivational Speaker
  • 25 Views
speakers inc

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, […]

  • San Francisco, CA
  • The Last Mile
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various keynote speakers and 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.
 
The fees provided are a local range (country of residence), for an accurate “international” fee please contact one of our team at Speakers Inc who can provide you with their fees accordingly. 
 
All talent fees exclude local taxes, travel and accommodation where required.
 
Fees are subject to change without notice and often vary based on a number of factors, including: schedule, timings, script writing, rehearsals, location, and other factors.
 
Please contact us with your specific event details and requirements below, and we would be delighted to provide you with a more bespoke quote.

We are actively working to have our profiles current with Keynote Speech titles, and Summaries.

Some Speakers do not have a set title or summary for their topic lists. Instead they customize for each. Other speakers only do moderated conversations.

If you do not see content here, please contact us.

We also have ample information off line that we can share as some do not want to have visible profiles and as such these are hidden pages. Or in the event we do not have the information, we can contact the speaker to provide and share.

© All rights reserved 2024. Speakers Inc