Kemba Smith Pradia: Motivational Speaker

Kemba Smith Pradia delivers powerful, transformative keynotes on resilience, justice reform, and second chances, inspiring audiences through her remarkable journey from incarceration to national advocacy.

Quick Facts:

  • Highlights:
    • Sentence commuted by President Bill Clinton after national advocacy and media attention.
    • Author of the memoir Poster Child.
    • National advocate for criminal justice reform and second-chance opportunities.
    • Worked with the White House, United Nations, Congress, and major corporations.
  • Formats: Keynote 45–60 min, motivational keynote, social justice keynote, fireside chat, moderated Q&A, workshop, and seminar.
  • Audiences: Corporate conferences, universities and student groups, criminal justice reform events, women’s leadership events, DEI programs, nonprofit and advocacy gatherings, and faith-based organizations.
  • Outcomes:
    1. Deeper understanding of the human impact of incarceration and sentencing reform.
    2. Inspiration grounded in resilience, courage, and personal transformation.
    3. Practical tools for fostering empathy, inclusivity, and second-chance opportunities.
Reading time: 2 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: Washington, DC

Talent Services

Keynote Topics:

  • Poster Child: The Kemba Smith Pradia Story
  • Personal Responsibility: Today’s Choices Are Tomorrow’s Consequences
  • Overcoming Adversity
  • Domestic Violence, Self Esteem & Relationships: When “Love” Is Really Abuse in Disguise
  • American Drug Policy & Its Devastating Effects
  • Get Involved! Youth & Student Activism
  • Black History
  • The Power of Women: Kemba Smith Pradia shares her journey of being a college student, victim of domestic violence and mother sentenced to 24. 5 years in federal prison. Hear her story of strength and resilience, continuing the legacy of women leaders in the struggle for the betterment of our communities.

Talent Short Bio

Kemba Smith Pradia is a renowned motivational speaker, author, and criminal justice reform advocate whose story has influenced policy, inspired movements, and educated audiences across the United States. Her path—from college student to the victim of domestic abuse, to being sentenced to 24.5 years in federal prison for a first-time, non-violent drug offense—became a defining case in the national conversation on sentencing reform. After serving 6.5 years, her sentence was commuted by President Bill Clinton in 2000, following massive public support and media attention.

Today, Kemba uses her voice, experience, and expertise to empower individuals and organizations to understand the human impact of the criminal justice system. Her bestselling memoir, Poster Child, chronicles her journey and the lessons that continue to shape her mission: advocating for fairness, compassion, and opportunity for those impacted by incarceration, trauma, and systemic barriers.

Kemba has worked with senior officials at the White House, United Nations, and U.S. Congress. She has led trainings for federal and state probation departments and spoken at major corporations including Verizon, Bank of America, Gulfstream, Procter & Gamble, and Travelers Foundation. Her work has earned numerous awards and recognitions for courage, leadership, and advocacy.

Kemba Smith Pradia went from college student to drug dealer’s girlfriend to domestic violence victim to federal prisoner, and in 1994 she was sentenced to 24. 5 years in federal prison. Kemba’s case drew support from across the nation.

Often labeled the “poster child” for reversing a disturbing trend in the rise of lengthy sentences for first-time, non-violent drug offenders, Kemba’s story was featured on a variety of television shows and in several publications. The support prompted then-President Clinton to commute her sentence in December 2000, after having served 6. 5 years in prison.

Today, Kemba is a wife, mother, public speaker, advocate, consultant, and author of Poster Child. She has worked with senior officials at The White House, the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, Members of Congress, and has led trainings for Federal and State Probation organizations across the country. Corporations such as Verizon, Traveler’s Foundation, Proctor and Gamble,

Along with being an advocate for criminal justice reform, Kemba is the founder of her 501(c)3, The Kemba Smith Foundation. Ultimately, Kemba knows that there is a lesson in each experience in life, and she has embraced her experience, learned from it, and is now using that experience to teach others.

Kemba Smith Pradia is a captivating female motivational speaker who shares her riveting journey of empowerment, justice reform, and overcoming adversity. From her personal story of redemption to her advocacy for social justice, Kemba’s impactful message resonates deeply with audiences, sparking meaningful conversations and inspiring positive action. Book Kemba Smith Pradia for your next event and empower your audience to rise above challenges and make a difference.

View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter

Talent Videos

Kemba Smith Pradia: A Domestic Violence Survivor Helping Others

A three minute thirty-four second emotional and empowering profile highlighting Kemba Smith Pradia’s journey from survivor to advocate, and her mission to support others facing abuse and systemic barriers.

This three minute thirty-four second video presents a concise yet powerful look into Kemba Smith Pradia’s life as a survivor of domestic violence and her ongoing commitment to helping others overcome trauma, fear, and injustice. Speaking with heartfelt honesty, Kemba shares how her abusive relationship became the catalyst for a series of life-altering events that ultimately led to her federal incarceration. She explains that the cycle of fear, manipulation, and control is often misunderstood, and she uses her experience to illuminate the complex realities that many victims face.

Kemba reflects on the emotional and psychological toll of abuse, emphasizing that survivors often struggle with silence, shame, and isolation. Her story underscores the importance of compassionate support systems and the need for society to rethink assumptions about victims. She highlights that her transformation began with acknowledging her worth, breaking the silence, and finding a path toward healing and empowerment.

The video also focuses on her work today as an advocate, speaker, and mentor. Kemba discusses her passion for mentoring young women, supporting survivors, and educating communities about domestic violence and coercion. Through her voice, she seeks to prevent others from entering harmful relationships and to guide those who have suffered toward recovery and renewed purpose.

She closes with a message of hope, reminding viewers that healing is possible and that survivors can reclaim their stories, rebuild their lives, and become advocates for others navigating similar challenges.

Key Moments

00:40–01:25 How manipulation and fear shaped her relationship and life trajectory.
01:25–02:20 Finding strength, breaking silence, and beginning the journey toward healing.
02:20–03:00 Her mission to support survivors and educate communities about abuse.

A six minute forty-nine second testimony where Kemba Smith Pradia delivers a powerful, fact-based, and deeply personal perspective on voting rights, justice reform, and the urgent need for equitable democratic protections.

This six minute forty-nine second UN panel testimony features Kemba Smith Pradia speaking with clarity, conviction, and moral authority on the intersection of voting rights, criminal justice reform, and systemic inequality. Drawing from her lived experience and years of advocacy, she highlights how mass incarceration and restrictive voting policies disproportionately harm marginalized communities, particularly people of color.

Kemba begins by sharing elements of her own story, underscoring how her incarceration for a first-time, non-violent drug offense not only impacted her life but stripped her—and individuals like her—of fundamental civic participation. She explains how the loss of voting rights becomes an extension of punishment that undermines reintegration, community stability, and democratic fairness.

Throughout her testimony, Kemba presents broader systemic concerns: disparities in sentencing, barriers faced by returning citizens, and the ripple effects these injustices have on families and communities. She emphasizes that withholding voting rights from formerly incarcerated individuals reinforces cycles of disenfranchisement and silences voices that most need representation.

She advocates for comprehensive reform, urging global leaders, policymakers, and institutions to address discriminatory practices and expand voting protections. Kemba highlights the importance of civic access as both a human right and a critical component of national progress, arguing that true justice extends beyond incarceration to full societal participation.

Key Moments

01:20–02:40 Explaining the long-term impact of disenfranchisement on individuals and communities.
02:40–04:10 Systemic barriers tied to mass incarceration and racial disparities.
04:10–05:35 The need for restoring voting rights and strengthening democratic protections.

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...

  • (136)
Jann-Mardenborough-1

Jann Mardenborough’s journey is one of the most inspiring real-life transformations in modern motorsport—a bold leap from virtual racing to real-world podiums. Catapulted into fame through his extraordinary rise from gaming enthusiast to professional racing driver, Jann’s story resonates deeply with fans and audiences worldwide. His unique blend of resilience, innovation, and passion serves as […]

  • Travels from: London, UK
  • Racing Drivers
  • (68)
Fredrik Eklund

As one of the most dynamic and successful figures in the world of real estate, Fredrik Eklund embodies the essence of sales excellence and entrepreneurial prowess. Renowned as the number one broker, star of “Million Dollar Listing,” and bestselling author of “The Sell,” Fredrik Eklund has consistently set the bar high in the realms of […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Sales Speakers
  • (17)

Mike Massimino, a former NASA astronaut, is a professor of mechanical engineering at Columbia University and the senior advisor for space programs at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. \ He received a BS from Columbia University, and MS degrees in mechanical engineering and in technology and policy, as well as a PhD in […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Business Speakers
  • (11)

Ken Schmidt is one of the world’s most admired authorities on competitive differentiation, brand loyalty and the power of authentic human connection in business. Best known for his leadership role in the legendary turnaround of Harley-Davidson Motor Company, he helped pull the brand back from the brink of collapse by reigniting passion, rebuilding trust and […]

  • Travels from:
  • Customer Experience
  • (21)

Karen Hao is a globally recognized voice at the forefront of AI reporting, named one of TIME’s 100 most influential people in AI and heralded as “one of the foremost tech journalists covering AI” by Dr. Joy Buolamwini. A former Silicon Valley engineer turned investigative journalist, Karen is the author of the New York Times bestselling book Empire […]

  • Travels from: Hong Kong
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (46)
Stephanie Battaglino

As the founder and owner of Follow Your Heart, LLC., Stephanie Battaglino is an internationally recognized speaker, workshop presenter, trainer, author, coach, and workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant. A major voice in the LGBTQ+ workplace equality movement with emphasis on transgender and non-binary individuals, Stephanie casts a bright light on all of the pertinent […]

  • Travels from: Palm Desert, CA
  • Diversity Speakers
  • (62)
Chef Stephanie Izard

Chef Stephanie Izard is a culinary force to be reckoned with in the culinary world. With her innovative approach to cooking and an impressive list of accolades, she has earned a well-deserved reputation as a talented and influential chef. Her journey in the world of gastronomy has been marked by creativity, hard work, and a […]

  • Travels from: Chicago, IL
  • Chefs Speakers
  • (44)

Shama Hyder is a visionary strategist for the digital age, a web and TV personality, a bestselling author, and the award-winning CEO of Zen Media – a global marketing and digital PR firm. She has been named the “Zen Master of Marketing” by Entrepreneur Magazine and the “Millennial Master of the Universe” by FastCompany.com. Shama […]

  • Travels from: Miami, FL
  • Branding Speakers
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

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.