Leon Ford Jr.

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5 out of 5

Social Entrepreneur, Mental Health Ambassador & Community Activist; Author, "An Unspeakable Hope"

Travels From Travels From:
Pennsylvania, USA
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Leon Ford Jr. Biography

Leon Ford is a celebrated author, social entrepreneur, impact investor, international speaker, and changemaker dedicated to driving positive change in his community and beyond. As a respected activist and mental health ambassador, Ford passionately addresses disparities by focusing on holistic wellness. His inspiring approach emphasizes the importance of resilience, transforming personal challenges into purpose, and creating a lasting societal impact.

In 2012, Ford was tragically shot five times by a police officer during a racially charged traffic stop, leaving him physically paralyzed. Nevertheless, he has continued to positively impact his community, working with police officers on cultural competency and legislators on drafting policies to modify the use of force laws.

In 2022, Leon joined forces with former Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Chief Scott Schubert to co-found The Hear Foundation. This trailblazing nonprofit seeks to bridge the gap between residents, community leaders, and law enforcement, cultivating a safe and thriving community for all. In recognition of its innovative approach, the foundation received the prestigious McNulty Catalyst Prize in 2023. Ford has also joined 150+ other leaders as a Founding Partner of Starts With Us – a movement to end the culture wars by fostering curiosity, compassion, and courage as daily habits.

As an influential figure in social justice and mental health, Ford inspires others through speaking engagements, mentorship, and fostering open dialogue. Through his work, he cultivates leaders, organizers, and social entrepreneurs, ensuring his vision for a compassionate and just society endures for future generations.

Ford's accomplishments include executive producing the Cannes Film Festival award-winning documentary "Leon" and "Breaking Bread: A Conversation on Race in America," which won a Shorty Award. Ford has also been honored with President Obama's Volunteer Service Award, The Root 100, Pittsburgh's 40 Under 40, Forbes 30 Under 30, and the National Urban League Community Service Award.

As a member of The Aspen Institute's Inaugural Civil Society Fellowship, Ford is devoted to nurturing the next generation of leaders and activists. He serves as an entrepreneur in residence for Bronze Investments, is co-founder of the Leon Ford Legacy Fund, and holds board positions with multiple organizations.

In addition to his activism, Ford has authored valuable resources for overcoming adversity and promoting well-being, such as the forthcoming memoir An Unspeakable Hope, "Untold: Testimony and Guide to Overcoming Adversity," and "The Leon Self-Care Handbook: From Surviving to Thriving," which offer practical tools for healing and personal growth.

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Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 10/11/2024.

Leon Ford Jr. Videos

  • How Leon Ford Transformed Being Paralyzed by Police Brutality
  • Turning Pain into Purpose | Leon Ford | TEDxPittsburgh
  • TheBreakup | The Leon Ford Story

Leon Ford Jr. Books

  • An Unspeakable Hope: Brutality, Forgiveness, and Building a Better Future for My Son
    An Unspeakable Hope: Brutality, Forgiveness, and Building a Better Future for My Son
  • Untold: Testimony and Guide to Overcoming Adversity
    Untold: Testimony and Guide to Overcoming Adversity

Speaker Lists Featuring Leon Ford Jr.

FAQs on booking Leon Ford Jr.

  • How do I book Leon Ford Jr. to speak at my event?

    Our experienced booking agents have successfully helped clients around the world secure speakers like Leon Ford Jr. for speaking engagements, personal appearances, product endorsements, or corporate entertainment since 2002. Click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page to check availability for Leon Ford Jr., or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to discuss your upcoming event. One of our experienced agents will be happy to help you get speaking fee information and check availability for Leon Ford Jr. or any other speaker of your choice.
  • What are the speaker fees for Leon Ford Jr.

    Speaking fees for Leon Ford Jr., or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book Leon Ford Jr. are for live events and for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire Leon Ford Jr., click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent.
  • What topics does Leon Ford Jr. speak about?

    Leon Ford Jr. is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Authors, Black Heritage, Black History Month, Civil Rights, Culture, Disability, Diversity & Inclusion, Entrepreneurship, Government, Inspirational, Law, Social Activism, Social Justice.
  • Where does Leon Ford Jr. travel from?

    Leon Ford Jr. generally travels from Pennsylvania, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent.
  • Who is Leon Ford Jr.’s agent?

    AAE Speakers Bureau has successfully booked keynote speakers like Leon Ford Jr. for clients worldwide since 2002. As a full-service speaker booking agency, we have access to virtually any speaker or celebrity in the world. Our agents are happy and able to submit an offer to the speaker or celebrity of your choice, letting you benefit from our reputation and long-standing relationships in the industry. Please click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page including the details of your event, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536, and one of our agents will assist you to book Leon Ford Jr. for your next private or corporate function.
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Leon Ford Jr. is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics . The estimated speaking fee range to book Leon Ford Jr. for your event is $10,000 - $20,000. Leon Ford Jr. generally travels from PA, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Dr. Marc Lamont Hill, Dr. Bernice King, Nikki Giovanni, Angela Davis and Tamika D. Mallory. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Leon Ford Jr. for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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