Ken Nwadike Jr. speaking for the Free Hugs Project – Conscious Campus speaker

On behalf of Tad and I and the entire EuRA family, we can’t thank you enough for having Ken with us in Ireland.  His keynote closing address not only connected with our group, but touched people in a deep and lasting way.  We have never had such a reaction to a speaker as we had from delegates towards Ken.  In our conference evaluation survey he got a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars which is a record. I have to add that for Tad and I personally, it was one of the highlights of our 25 years doing this to have met him. We’re so pleased to have been even a small part in getting your ethos and his message to our crowd, thank you! – Dom Tidey – EuRA C.O.O.  LLB, MSW

Ken Nwadike Jr. Bio:

Ken Nwadike Jr. is a peace activist, motivational speaker, and video journalist best known as the creator of the Free Hugs Project. His videos and speaking engagements have inspired audiences around the world, with hundreds of millions of views across social platforms like Facebook and YouTube.

Ken’s journey—from overcoming homelessness as a young adult to becoming a successful entrepreneur and sought-after speaker—is a powerful example of resilience, authenticity, and human connection. Whether addressing leadership teams, sales departments, or company-wide events, Ken motivates audiences to lead with empathy, connect with purpose, and perform with heart.

He is especially known for de-escalating high-tension situations at protests and rallies through calm, courageous engagement—an approach he now shares with organizations looking to improve communication, boost morale, and build stronger, more unified teams.

Ken launched the Free Hugs Project in response to the Boston Marathon bombing, using the power of positive human interaction to promote unity and peace. His efforts led to national media attention and inclusion in Google’s Year in Search video as one of 2016’s defining moments. He has appeared on CNN, BBC, Good Morning Britain, and USA Today, and continues to be a trusted voice on human connection and empathy.

Ken also co-founded the Black and Blue Podcast with Sheriff Chris Swanson, creating space for conversations that model civility and understanding. Today, Ken speaks at conferences, leadership summits, sales trainings, and employee engagement events, inspiring audiences to lead with intention and create cultures of respect and motivation.

Ken Nwadike Jr. Programs:

The Power of Positive Human Interaction

Format: 45–60 minute keynote + optional Q&A
Best For: Conferences • Corporate Retreats • Sales Kickoffs • HR Trainings • Nonprofits

This high-energy, interactive keynote explores how small, meaningful acts of empathy can transform workplace culture, leadership effectiveness, and team dynamics. Ken draws on his real-life experiences as a peace activist and human connection expert to help audiences—from frontline employees to executive leaders—rediscover the power of presence, kindness, and purpose-driven action.

Participants leave with:

  • – Practical tools to build stronger relationships
  • – Inspiration to lead with empathy and emotional intelligence
  • – Motivation to unify teams and inspire sales performance
  • – A renewed sense of connection, trust, and shared purpose

“Ken had women hugging each other in the bathroom… best speaker we’ve ever had.” – NEI Global Relocation

Restoring Civility in the Workplace

Format: 45–60 minute keynote + optional Q&A
Best For: Business Leaders • Sales Teams • Government • Nonprofit Staff

In an era of high stress and rapid change, civility and empathy are powerful business tools. Ken shares lessons from his peacekeeping work to help organizations reduce workplace friction, strengthen leadership, and build resilient, high-performing teams. This program is especially impactful for leaders seeking to unify teams, restore morale, and motivate with compassion and clarity.

Participants leave with:

  • – Tactics to de-escalate tension and improve communication
  • – A fresh perspective on empathy-driven leadership
  • – Tools to inspire trust, teamwork, and positive performance
  • – Motivation to lead with integrity, civility, and calm

“People couldn’t stop thanking us for bringing Ken in. He shifted the entire tone of our workplace.” – Albany County Dept. for Children, Youth & Families

Conversations with Ken

Format: Customizable keynote, breakout, or small-group facilitation
Best For: Executive Teams • Staff Retreats • Leadership Events • Community Forums

This signature session invites teams into real, human conversation—breaking down silos, restoring trust, and cultivating deeper empathy among colleagues. Ken’s approachable, storytelling-based format builds immediate connection and encourages the kind of dialogue that drives unity, leadership growth, and cultural transformation.

Participants leave with:

  • – A deeper understanding of empathy and authentic connection
  • – Confidence to navigate challenging conversations with grace
  • – Stronger bonds across departments, teams, and leadership levels
  • – A renewed sense of shared purpose and belonging

“Now I know how to talk to my uncle this Thanksgiving!” – Participant Feedback

“

Wow! We were excited to have Ken as a keynote speaker at the HR Indiana SHRM conference in August 2018, but had no idea the impact he would have on our participants. 1800 of us laughed, cried, and cheered while he spoke; when he left we were inspired, more prayerful, more positive, and more kind to others. We were only disappointed that not all 1800 got a personal hug from Ken, but I bet about 450 of us did!! Bravo, Ken!

JoDee CurtisOWNER, SHRM-SCP, PURPLE INK, LLC.
“

I contacted Ken Nwadike, Jr. after seeing him on CNN. He was so inspiring and genuine in his message during that interview that I had to work out a way to bring him to our conference to speak to our customers. We had hoped Ken would leave them with some positive feelings and inspiration and he actually exceeded those expectations and had such a wonderful impact on all that were in attendance. There were laughs, tears, and lots of hugs! I would highly recommend Ken as a speaker at ANY event. His message is wide reaching and a perfect antidote to today’s climate. His smile is contagious as is his genuine pursuit to spread empathy, happiness, and love.

Stephanie LassCENTRAL ACCESS DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, CENTRAL ACCESS CORPORATION
“

Ken Nwadike is a dynamic speaker! His authenticity and powerful message is incredibly motivating. The impact Ken has on both children and adults is life changing and important for our country.

Keyo GoldPRESIDENT, AMMEX CORP
“

I am writing thank you notes today. Ken is special, I believe he is changing the world. During his speech folks were quiet and listening…introspective (as was I) to the significance of his work. How brave - not just to the dangers, but by putting himself out there like he does. The world needs peacemakers and we should all strive to be more like Ken. There is only one Prince of Peace, but if that is not Ken’s archetype, I don’t know who is. After his talk everyone at the conference, lined up to get their FREE HUG and a picture! Please let me know, how I can help Ken further his work and get the message out. I am natural skeptic, but I believe Ken to be the real deal.

Thanks for making this possible!

Mark Drennan - Chief Executive Officer - West Virginia Behavioral Healthcare Providers Assn.

Workshops & Breakouts:

LEADERSHIP: Become the Leader They’re Searching For

Format: 30-minute breakout session or workshop + optional Q&A

Perfect for: Emerging leaders • Team leads • Professional development programs

This energizing workshop helps participants explore what it means to lead with empathy, confidence, and clarity. Ken shares insights from his own leadership journey—offering real-world tools and motivation for anyone looking to grow into the kind of leader who inspires trust, unity, and performance.

Participants leave with:

  • – Practical ideas to identify and meet the needs of those they lead
  • – Courage to take bold steps and embrace new challenges
  • – Fresh perspective on empathetic, effective leadership

PERSEVERANCE: You Define Your Finish Line

Format: 30-minute breakout session or workshop + optional Q&A

Perfect for: Sales teams • Athletes • Teams facing obstacles or change

Ken shares his powerful story of overcoming homelessness through sports, inspiring participants to push past self-imposed limits and stay resilient through setbacks. This motivational session helps individuals and teams reframe adversity and keep moving toward their personal and professional goals.

Participants leave with:

  • – Motivation to push past internal and external limitations
  • – Empowerment to redefine success on their own terms
  • – Renewed commitment to resilience and growth

CHARITABLE WORKS: Supporting a Cause

Format: 30-minute breakout session or workshop + optional Q&A

Perfect for: Purpose-driven teams • Social impact planning • Service groups

In this action-inspiring workshop, Ken helps teams tap into their shared values and align around causes that matter. He shares stories from his own charitable work and guides participants in identifying how they can make a tangible difference through collective action.

Participants leave with:

  • – Clear steps to take action on causes they care about
  • – Tools to lead or support purpose-driven initiatives
  • – A sense of meaning and unity through shared mission

COMMUNITY: Social Change Think Tank

Format: 1-hour collaborative workshop or breakout session

Perfect for: Teams and students looking to create community impact

This collaborative session helps participants generate ideas and action plans for improving their community or supporting those in need. With Ken’s guidance, groups move from discussion to real, purpose-driven strategy.

Participants leave with:

  • – Actionable ideas for community-based initiatives
  • – Greater clarity on where and how to start
  • – A renewed commitment to service and impact

TEAMBUILDING: A Loving Workplace Workshop

Format: 1-hour interactive workshop or breakout session

Perfect for: Employee engagement • Workplace culture • Leadership retreats

Ken facilitates a series of meaningful reflections and interactive moments that build appreciation, empathy, and cohesion among team members. This session strengthens the emotional fabric of teams and fosters a more joyful, connected workplace culture.

Participants leave with:

  • – Stronger connections and trust among coworkers
  • – Simple daily practices to build kindness at work
  • – A more unified, uplifting team culture