
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

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
