Andre Norman

Andre Norman is widely recognized as the "Ambassador of Hope," a title that encapsulates his journey from a turbulent youth and imprisonment to becoming a beacon of positive change and resilience. Raised in a single-parent household with five siblings, Norman experienced numerous challenges early in life, including illiteracy and economic hardship. Influenced by his environment, he turned to gang life during his high school years, which led to a significant prison sentence.

While incarcerated, Norman underwent a profound transformation. During 2 1⁄2 years in solitary confinement, he realized the need to change his life. This epiphany spurred him to educate himself, ultimately leading to his attendance at Harvard University. Norman's story is not just about personal redemption but also about making a systemic impact. He developed the "Violence Interrupters & Proven Risk Youth" model, aimed at preventing youth from following his former path.

Upon his release in 1999, Norman immediately began sharing his experiences, speaking at a juvenile center to influence young individuals positively. His commitment extended beyond talks, as he played a crucial role in the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives and became a leading expert in gang and prison violence intervention. His efforts were recognized in 2018 when he was asked to develop a program following a deadly prison riot.

Norman's expertise has been sought globally, contributing to the London Business School Executive Education Department since 2001, with clients such as Prudential Insurance (UK) and Deutsche Bank (Germany). In 2016, he received a fellowship to Harvard Law School for his contribution to resolving the Ferguson, Missouri protest. His advisory roles now span across various organizations tackling social justice issues and community engagement.

In 2020, Norman authored "Ambassador of Hope: Turning Poverty and Prison into a Purpose-Driven Life," furthering his message on the power of transformation and second chances. His role as a mentor was solidified in 2021 when he was hired by the very prison system that had once incarcerated him, to design a program and guide inmates.

Today, Norman is not only a top international speaker but also an instrumental consultant and advisor on diversity, inclusion, and leadership. His keynote speeches, such as "BREAKING THE BARS: TURN YOUR PRISON INTO A PURPOSE-DRIVEN LIFE," inspire audiences worldwide, underscoring his belief in the potential for redemption and meaningful change. With engagements spanning significant conferences and collaborations with entities like the United Nations and the Young Presidents Organization, Norman continues to influence a broad spectrum of individuals and organizations.