Yara Shahidi: Award-Winning Actress

  • Highlights:
    • Yara Shahidi is an award-winning actress, producer, and change agent who can be seen as "Tinker Bell" in the highly anticipated Peter Pan & Wendy live-action film.
    • She was the breakout star of ABC’s Emmy-and Golden Globe-nominated series black-ish and became the executive producer and lead of its Freeform spinoff series, grown-ish, where she plays "Zoey Johnson," an ambitious, fashion-forward college student, on her journey of figuring out adulthood.
    • She has been highlighted in TIME Magazine’s 30 Most Influential Teens, Forbes 30 Under 30, British Vogue Forces for Change, Glamour Magazine’s Women of the Year, and Essence Magazine’s Black Women in Hollywood.
Reading time: 3 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • **Fee range: $100,000 - $250,000

Keynote Topics

In the multi-award-winning ABC comedy series “Black-ish,” young scholar, philanthropist, and actor Yara Shahidi plays popular adolescent “Zoey Johnson,” an ambitious, technologically obsessed high school junior.

Since the show’s launch in September 2014, Yara has won a 2016 Gracie Award for Female in a Breakthrough Role, been nominated for a Teen Choice Award, and received an NAACP Image Award for “Outstanding Supporting Actress” in a Comedy Series.

Yara Shahidi continues to utilize her platform to inspire and encourage others, making her one of Hollywood’s most lauded young stars. Shahidi, who was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, spent the early years of her youth there when she delighted in yearly trips to the state fair and helped her grandpa run the family’s Persian Rug store.

Her mother is a well-known commercial actress, while her father is a prominent cameraman. Along with her mother, the little celebrity debuted in a number of international print and commercial campaigns. When she was given the chance to try out for the part of “Olivia Danielson” in the Paramount movie “Imagine That,” with Eddie Murphy, that became her first significant picture.

She soon embraced the part of Murphy’s artistic and upbeat daughter, which fueled her passion for acting. With Cheryl Hines and Megan Mullally, Shahidi later had appearances in TV shows including ABC’s “In the Motherhood,” CBS’ “Cold Case,” Disney’s “Wizards of Waverly Place,” FOX’s “Lie to Me,” and FOX’s “The Finder,” to mention a few.

In addition, Shahidi continues to play recurring parts as the “young Olivia Pope” on the popular ABC drama “Scandal” and as “Maddie” on the ABC Family drama “The Fosters.” Among Shahidi’s numerous film roles are “Unthinkable” (Sony Pictures), in which she played the son of Samuel L. Jackson, “Salt” (Columbia Pictures), in which she appeared alongside Angelina Jolie, “Alex Cross” (Summit Entertainment), in which she played the daughter of Tyler Perry, and “Butter,” in which she played Jennifer Garner’s co-star. Yara is not only equally dedicated to performing and academics, but she also just established “Yara’s Club,” a collaboration with The Young Women’s Leadership Schools (TYWLS) in New York.

A bi-monthly online gathering called Yara’s Club brings together Yara and students to talk about social challenges, personal development, and higher education. Yara also acted as the spokeswoman for the DoSomething.Org and 3M “Science Sleuth” campaign, which generated money for Minnesota and St. Louis classrooms in need of science and technology supplies.

Currently, she serves as executive producer and lead of Freeform’s black-ish spinoff series, grown-ish, which is the #1 cable comedy among the 18 – 49-year-old demographic. Yara Shahidi also executive produces and stars in Meta’s new interview show, Yara Shahidi’s Day Off, where she joins her celebrity peers and gets a glimpse into their lives through a variety of experiences that reflect their authentic interests outside of their fame. Recently, Yara voiced Callie in Netflix’s animated film, My Father’s Dragon.

Yara Shahidi can also be seen in the role of “Tinker Bell” in Disney’s live-action film, Peter Pan & Wendy. She serves as executive producer and stars in Amazon Studios’ romantic-comedy Sitting in Bars with Cake. Additionally, she appears in Apple’s upcoming American anthology drama series, Extrapolations.

Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter

Yara Shahidi | Celebrity Actress

Videos

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!

View further speakers

  • (14)
Keelan Leyser

Keelan Leyser is a world-renowned illusionist and master of digital magic, redefining the boundaries of modern entertainment. Blending cutting-edge technology with mind-blowing illusions, Keelan has captivated audiences in over 60 countries, earning his place as one of the most innovative performers in the world of magic. With his engaging stage presence and astonishing skill, Keelan […]

  • Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
  • Mentalists
  • (11)
Elizabeth Smart - Image 20 (January 20, 2026)

Elizabeth Smart’s story of survival and resilience captivated the world when, at just 14 years old, she was abducted from her home in Salt Lake City, Utah. For nine grueling months, she endured unimaginable abuse before being miraculously rescued. Today, Elizabeth is not just a survivor; she is a symbol of hope, a powerful advocate […]

  • Travels from: Salt Lake City, UT
  • Inspirational Speakers
  • (40)
Miyuki

“The Doctor DJ” Miyuki left her career in science to pursue her lifelong passion – music. Now a rising EDM producer and DJ based in Chicago, USA, Miyuki is dedicated to creating music that moves not only the body, but also the heart. Drawing from her experiences of trauma, healing, and love, Miyuki tells her […]

  • Travels from: Chicago, IL
  • Mobile DJ
  • (8)
heidi hanna

Dr. Heidi Hanna is the Chief Energy Officer of Synergy Brain Fitness, a company providing brain-based health and performance programs to individuals and organizations, a Senior Researcher with the Brain Health Initiative, and a Fellow and Advisory Board Member for the American Institute of Stress. Dr. Heidi is also an instructor at Harvard and a […]

  • Travels from: San Diego, CA
  • Peak Performance
  • (10)
  • Featured
Björn Ognibeni - Image 01 (February 24, 2026)

Björn Ognibeni is a digital strategist and long-standing consultant specialising in digital transformation, AI and Chinese digital innovation. With more than two decades of hands-on experience, he is best known for helping Western organisations understand and apply innovation impulses coming from China in a way that is commercially relevant and operationally realistic. As Founder of ChinaBriefs.io and […]

  • Travels from:
  • Digital Speakers
  • (45)
  • (3)

Maja Kazazic is an internationally acclaimed keynote speaker, renowned for her resilience and transformational journey from being a survivor of the Bosnian genocide to a powerful advocate for the disabled community. Her experiences of overcoming unimaginable hardships, including losing her leg in a bombing at age 16, have given her insights into the power of […]

  • Travels from: Tampa, FL
  • Adversity Speakers
  • (11)
Tom Stebbins - Image 01 (January 19, 2026)

Tom Stebbins is not just an event emcee; he’s an international entertainer, speaker, emcee, and auctioneer who has captivated audiences across the globe, from the vibrant streets of Madrid to the serene vineyards of the Napa Valley. With a dynamic stage presence, a quick wit, and a passion for creating memorable experiences, Tom Stebbins brings […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Event Emcee
  • (43)
  • Featured
Kanya Sesser - Image 14 (January 23, 2026)

Kanya Sesser is an internationally recognized para-athlete, groundbreaking model, actress, and motivational speaker whose life epitomizes resilience and determination. Born without legs and abandoned as a baby in Thailand, Kanya overcame immense challenges to become a global symbol of empowerment. Her motto, “No legs, no limits,” captures her journey of defying expectations and inspiring others […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Inspirational 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

AI Assistant
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.