Aurora James, Creative Director and Founder of luxury accessories brand Brother Vellies and founder of the non-profit advocacy organization, Fifteen Percent Pledge, has long worked to make the global economy a more equitable place for historically excluded groups.
Brother Vellies was founded in 2013 with the goal of keeping traditional African design practices and techniques alive. The brand supports artisan communities around the world, creating timeless pieces that celebrate various cultural histories and honor the individuals that make them through fair labor practices and job creation.
The first Brother Vellies collection was a single style of vellies that Aurora James sold at the Hester Street Fair in New York. Today, Brother Vellies is handmade across the globe and has expanded into handbags and other accessories categories, including a home goods subscription service, Something Special.
In June 2020, Aurora founded the Fifteen Percent Pledge, a non-profit advocacy organization that is closing the racial wealth gap by partnering with retailers to diversify their shelves and commit 15 percent of their purchasing power to Black-owned businesses.
Under Aurora James leadership, what initially began as an Instagram post has now expanded to a full-fledged organization with ten full-time staff members. To date, the Pledge has partnered with nearly 30 major companies across industries, including Macy’s, Nordstrom, Sephora, Ulta Beauty and more.
By 2030, the organization aims to drive $1.4 trillion of wealth generation by Black entrepreneurs and increase Black business representation by 14.6 percent.
As a result of her advocacy work, Aurora has been awarded the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s Founders Award, and named to the 2021 TIME100 and the 2020 Bloomberg 50.
Aurora currently splits her time between New York City and Los Angeles with her dog, Mr. Chow.
Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter
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.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
In order to view the below you must be logged in.
Rebecca Walker, a prominent figure in the literary world, a dedicated advocate for diversity, and a respected voice in the LGBTQ community. With a compelling blend of personal experience, intellectual insight, and a commitment to social change, Rebecca Walker captivates audiences worldwide as both an author and a keynote speaker. About Rebecca Walker: Rebecca Walker […]
Dr. Amy Cuddy, a renowned Social Psychologist, Award-Winning Harvard Lecturer, and Bestselling Author. Dr. Cuddy is a dynamic and influential speaker, celebrated for her groundbreaking research on nonverbal communication, power dynamics, and the science behind personal transformation. Event planners seeking to elevate their next event should consider booking Dr. Amy Cuddy through Speakers Inc for […]
As America’s Hottest Illusionist, Jason Bishop might read your mind one second and make a goldfish appear the next. His performance abilities have led him from LA to NYC and Mexico to Sweden, as well as every state and many countries in between. Bishop’s combination of modern music, fast-paced magic, sleight of hand, and audience […]
Mark Divine stands as a beacon of resilience, leadership, and mental toughness in the realm of personal development and leadership training. As the founder and CEO of SEALFIT, a renowned leadership and peak performance academy, Mark has dedicated his life to empowering individuals to unleash their full potential. With his multifaceted background as a former […]
Dr. Ted James is a pioneering figure in healthcare transformation, celebrated for his impactful contributions to advancing the future of care delivery. As a Medical Director within the prestigious Harvard healthcare system and a clinical advisor in healthcare technology, Dr. James has become a sought-after voice for organizations aiming to navigate the complexities of today’s […]
Allison Gill is a multifaceted talent whose career spans from serving as a federal government executive to advocating for the resistance as a comedian, author, and podcast host. With a PhD and a rich background in public service, Allison brings a unique blend of intellect, humor, and dedication to her work. Her mission is clear: […]
David Allison is a distinguished figure in the realm of human values, a global researcher, and a best-selling author, whose mission revolves around reshaping our comprehension of human behavior and interaction. With a rich and diverse career traversing marketing, research, and prolific authorship, David has left an indelible mark by introducing human values as a […]
For over 20 years, comedian and speaker David Ferrell has shown audiences that comedy can be clean and funny! Three-time nominee for Inspirational Comedian of the Year by ICM Awards As Heard on Sirius/XM “Laugh USA” Named one of five “Hot Acts in America” by Event Solutions Magazine In addition to his uproarious tales about everyday life, David delights […]
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
Our Mission:
© All rights reserved 2025. Designed using Voxel
