Ken Nwadike Jr. is a peace activist, motivational speaker, and video journalist best known as the founder of the Free Hugs Project and his viral presence as the “Free Hugs Guy.” His videos have been viewed hundreds of millions of times on YouTube and social media, inspiring conversations around connection, courage, and compassion.
Once a homeless student-athlete, Ken’s journey from adversity to activism is a story of resilience, purpose, and the quiet strength of human connection. From world-class sprinter to entrepreneur to nationally recognized peacebuilder, Ken brings a message that resonates deeply with students navigating their own transitions, pressures, and desire to make a difference.
Ken launched the Free Hugs Project following the Boston Marathon bombing in 2014 to promote love and unity. He quickly gained national media attention for his efforts to de-escalate conflict at protests and political events, using dialogue and empathy as tools for peace. He was featured in Google’s Year in Search video as one of the most defining moments of 2016 and has appeared on CNN, USA Today, Good Morning Britain, BBC News, and more.
Ken also co-founded the Black and Blue Podcast with Sheriff Chris Swanson in 2020 to engage students in honest, civil dialogue on difficult topics. Today, he continues to speak at colleges and universities nationwide, encouraging students to embrace empathy, build inclusive communities, and lead with heart.
Ken Nwadike Jr. Programs:
Conversations with Ken
Ken Nwadike Jr. brings deep authenticity and calm to the most important conversations we avoid—but need. As a former homeless student-athlete turned peace activist and entrepreneur, Ken has learned that real change happens not through shouting, but through connection. In this heartfelt and interactive session, Ken facilitates meaningful dialogue with college audiences around topics like unity, respect, empathy, and leadership.
This program is ideal for student leadership development, campus climate initiatives, orientation events, or as a signature keynote that bridges diverse communities. Through storytelling, humor, and vulnerability, Ken helps students feel seen, valued, and inspired to lead with heart.
Participant feedback: “Now I know how to talk with my uncle this Thanksgiving!”
The Power of Positive Human Interaction
Format: 45–60 minute keynote + optional Q&A
Ideal for: Student engagement • Campus unity programs • Leadership retreats
In this fun, creative, and inspiring program, Ken brings his viral “Free Hugs Project” to life—showing students how empathy and positive interaction can transform a campus. Ken works closely with student leaders and groups to spark meaningful conversations and strengthen a sense of belonging. Whether addressing hate, division, or apathy, Ken’s message of love and connection is a powerful catalyst for positive change.
Participants leave with:
- – A deeper understanding of how small acts of kindness can shift campus culture
- – The confidence to lead with empathy and compassion
- – Motivation to build inclusive, respectful, and connected campus communities
“AMAZING! STUPENDOUS! EYE OPENING! INSPIRATIONAL! AWESOME!” – Widener University
Building a Supportive Campus Network
Format: 45–60 minute keynote + optional Q&A
Ideal for: First-year experience • Student-athletes • Orientation programs
Ken shares his powerful story of overcoming homelessness through the support of teammates, coaches, and mentors—highlighting the importance of building a supportive community in college. This session encourages students to get involved, look out for one another, and recognize the impact of compassion in personal growth and academic success.
Participants leave with:
- – A renewed understanding of the value of community on campus
- – Encouragement to build peer networks and support systems
- – Tools to create positive, uplifting environments among student groups
Workshops & Breakouts:
LEADERSHIP: Become the Leader They’re Searching For
Format: 30-minute keynote or breakout session + optional Q&A
Perfect for: Student leaders • Peer mentors • Orientation and leadership retreats
This empowering session helps students discover how to lead with empathy, integrity, and courage. Ken draws from his personal journey to help students recognize the needs around them and rise to meet them as authentic, purpose-driven leaders.
Participants leave with:
- – Inspiration and fresh insight into what leadership means in college life
- – Courage to step up, speak out, and support others
- – Tools to lead with empathy and build trust within student communities
PERSEVERANCE: You Define Your Finish Line
Format: 30-minute keynote or breakout session + optional Q&A
Perfect for: First-gen students • Athletes • Students facing challenges or burnout
Ken shares his inspiring story of overcoming homelessness through his passion for running—redefining what success looked like in his life. This session motivates students to push past self-doubt and redefine their own finish lines based on personal growth and resilience.
Participants leave with:
- – Motivation to overcome obstacles and self-imposed limitations
- – A renewed sense of purpose and inner strength
- – Encouragement to stay committed to personal and academic goals
CHARITABLE WORKS: Supporting a Cause
Format: 30-minute keynote or breakout session + optional Q&A
Perfect for: Student organizations • Service groups • Campus activism
This session encourages students to channel their passions into purposeful action. Ken shares real-life stories and strategies to help students create campaigns or join efforts that align with causes they care about.
Participants leave with:
- – Energy and ideas to take meaningful action on campus or in the community
- – Confidence to organize or participate in cause-driven efforts
- – A stronger sense of mission and social responsibility
COMMUNITY: Social Change Think Tank
Format: 1-hour collaborative workshop or breakout session
Perfect for: Campus-wide initiatives • Service learning • Student leader summits
This interactive think tank brings students together to brainstorm solutions for social and community challenges. Ken guides participants through idea generation and strategy development to spark real change starting on campus.
Participants leave with:
- – Actionable plans for community-building projects or campaigns
- – Collaborative ideas for local and global impact
- – Renewed motivation to make a difference through student-led initiatives
TEAMBUILDING: A Connected Campus Workshop
Format: 1-hour interactive workshop or breakout session
Perfect for: Student groups • Residence life • Orientation leaders
In this warm and uplifting session, Ken facilitates meaningful interaction and guided activities to help students build connection, kindness, and a sense of belonging on campus. Perfect for new student orientation or student leadership development.
Participants leave with:
- – Stronger bonds and trust among peers
- – A more supportive and welcoming campus culture
- – Tools to foster inclusion and community in daily student life
