Aurora James: Celebrity Fashionista
- Highlights:
- Travels from: New York, NY
- **Fee range: On Request
Keynote Topics
Read Full Bio
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
Aurora James | Celebrity Fashionista
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)
Felipe Gomez redefines what it means to be a virtuoso. While the term is often reserved for exceptional performers in the arts and sports, Felipe brings this concept into the world of business—demonstrating how a virtuoso mindset can unlock breakthrough performance in both organizations and individuals. With a distinguished career as an entrepreneur and senior […]
- Travels from: Atlanta, GA
- Experiential Speakers
- (18)
John Kippen is a Magician , Mentalist , Corporate Speaker and a master storyteller. He not only entertains, but inspires audiences. John suffered partial facial paralysis after a successful brain tumor removal surgery in 2002. He demonstrates how performing Magic allowed him to regain his self confidence after his surgery. As you watch him perform, […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Motivational Speakers
- (16)
- (4)
Ryan Campbell is not your average pilot. At the age of 19, he made history by becoming the youngest person to fly solo around the world. But his story is far more than just a record-breaking feat. From surviving a plane crash to thriving as a best-selling author and motivational speaker, Ryan’s journey is one […]
- Travels from: Nashville, TN
- Inspirational Speakers
- (12)
DJ MelBoogie is one of the country’s best-known female DJs. For 30 years, her roots have been deeply embedded in radio, both as a host, and mixshow format DJ. She has also hosted several events including Canadian Music Week, North By North East Indie Showcase, and has been a speaker/panelist at a variety of music […]
- Travels from: Toronto, ON
- Mobile DJ
- (8)
Toto Wolff is the Team Principal & CEO of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team and one of motorsport’s most influential leaders. An Austrian investor and entrepreneur with experience in international GT racing, Wolff blends elite sport insight with rigorous business discipline. Under his stewardship, Mercedes achieved an unprecedented run of success: eight straight Constructors’ Championships […]
- Travels from: Vienna, Austria
- Motor Racing Speakers
- (11)
Darryl Strawberry is more than a baseball legend; he embodies resilience, redemption, and the transformative power of faith. Revered for his formidable presence on the baseball diamond and his inspirational journey of personal redemption, Strawberry has transcended sports to become a beacon of hope and motivation for audiences worldwide. His impact extends beyond the game, […]
- Travels from: St. Louis, MO
- Religious Speakers
- (11)
Derek Ostovani, one of the nation’s top Corporate Magicians and Mentalists resides in San Diego, California, and has traveled across the country and internationally to share his unique art of performance and sleight of hand abilities. He has performed at theaters across the nation including The Magic Castle in Hollywood, The Chicago Magic Lounge, and […]
- Travels from: San Diego, CA
- Magicians
- (31)
- (2)
Jess Ekstrom is a dynamic and inspiring speaker who has captured the hearts and minds of audiences around the world with her powerful message of resilience, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership. As the founder of Headbands of Hope, a social enterprise that has donated over one million headbands to children battling cancer, Jess exemplifies the power […]
- Travels from: Raleigh, NC
- Inspirational Speakers
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.