Derek Clark

Motivational speaker Derek Clark's life is one of resilience and redemption. As a child, he endured severe child abuse, abandonment, and emotional distress before being left at an emergency psychiatric facility at age five. His 13 years in the Alameda County foster care system were marked by humiliation, aggression, emotional distress, overwhelming anxiety, and being wrongfully labeled. Despite these challenges, with the support of dedicated foster parents, a fantastic social worker, and impactful mentors, he overcame the artificial limitations imposed upon him. Clark knows first-hand the importance of coping with adversity and overcoming hardships. His past experiences have not deterred him from achieving his goals.

Clark is the author of seven inspirational books, including "Never Limit Your Life" and the critically acclaimed "I Will Never Give Up" book series, which detail his experiences and the mental tools he used to overcome the odds while growing up in the foster care system. His true-life trials and personal triumphs have moved organizations worldwide with his message of resilience, hope, courage, unwavering perseverance, and redemption.

Clark's life mission has been to help others find the mental strength to recognize and take advantage of opportunities, focusing particularly on overcoming adversity and fear. His keynotes, such as "The Power of Resilience and Redemption: From Brutal Trauma to Triumph" and "You Cannot Think Negative About a Child and Expect a Positive Outcome," have inspired thousands to find the courage to make transformative decisions. Clark’s work extends beyond his speeches; he has also been recognized with the International Foster Care Award from SOS Children’s Village for his significant contribution to foster care awareness. He frequently appears on notable television programs like "CNN Headline News," "The Steve Harvey Show," and "The Ricki Lake Show." Additionally, Clark has captured a wide audience with his "Rapping Dad" videos, amassing over 250 million views on social media, further cementing his influence and outreach. His engaging presence both on and off the stage, combined with his use of music to deepen his connection with audiences, highlights his unique approach to motivational speaking.